Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that warms you from the inside out. This creamy, flavorful soup combines tender potatoes with aromatic herbs and sharp cheddar cheese, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and can be served as a hearty main dish or a delightful side. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, herbs, and cheddar cheese creates a rich and satisfying taste.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a filling meal on its own or pair it with bread for a complete dining experience.
- Comforting: Perfect for fall and winter seasons, this soup brings warmth and joy to any table.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like crumbled bacon or fresh herbs to make it your own.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that the cooking process goes smoothly and efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Standard blender
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for sautéing ingredients and simmering the soup evenly.
- Standard blender: Helps achieve the desired creamy texture by blending part of the soup without any lumps.
Ingredients
For the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- Potatoes: 2.5 lbs (about 1.1 kg) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces (about 6-7 medium potatoes)
- Fat: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter OR 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter
- Aromatics: 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups)
- Garlic: 5-6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
- Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (helps thicken the soup)
- Liquid Base: 4 cups (32 fl oz / 950 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- Milk: 2 cups (16 fl oz / 475 ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- Cream: 1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 120 ml) heavy cream (optional, but recommended for ultimate creaminess)
- Cheese: 2 cups (about 8 oz / 225g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (avoid pre-shredded for better melting)
- Herbs: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Chives: 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (or to taste)
- Cayenne Pepper or Smoked Paprika: Pinch (optional, for a hint of warmth)
- Optional Garnish: Cooked crumbled bacon; Extra shredded cheddar cheese; Sour cream or Greek yogurt; More fresh chives or parsley; Croutons
How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel your Yukon Gold potatoes and chop them into uniform ½-inch cubes.
- Rinse the cubed potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch – this helps prevent the soup from becoming gummy. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the butter (or olive oil/butter combination). Once melted and shimmering:
- Add the finely chopped yellow onion.
- Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent but not browned.
Step 3: Add Garlic
- Add minced garlic to the pot:
- Cook for another minute or two while stirring constantly until fragrant.
- Avoid burning garlic as it can become bitter.
Step 4: Create Roux
- Sprinkle all-purpose flour over sautéed onions and garlic:
- Stir continuously and cook for about one to two minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
Step 5: Incorporate Broth
- Gradually whisk in chicken or vegetable broth:
- Scrape bottom of pot to loosen flavorful browned bits.
- Keep whisking until smooth; bring mixture to a simmer.
Step 6: Cook Potatoes
- Add rinsed potato cubes to the pot:
- Stir well. Bring back to a gentle simmer.
- Cover pot; cook for about 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally.
Step 7: Blend Half of Soup
- Carefully ladle half of soup into blender:
- Secure lid tightly but vent with kitchen towel.
- Blend until smooth; return blended soup back into pot with remaining chunky mixture.
Step 8: Add Dairy
- Reduce heat to low:
- Slowly pour in whole milk (or half-and-half) and heavy cream if using while stirring constantly.
- Add fresh herbs; stir well. Heat through gently for about five minutes without boiling.
Step 9: Melt Cheese
- Remove from heat completely:
- Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese by handfuls while stirring continuously until melted.
Step 10: Season Soup
- Taste soup before serving:
- Season generously with salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
Step 11: Serve
- Ladle hot soup into bowls:
- Garnish generously with toppings like crumbled bacon, extra cheese, sour cream, fresh chives, or croutons. Enjoy immediately!
How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Serving your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can elevate the dining experience. This creamy soup pairs beautifully with various toppings and sides that enhance its rich flavors.
Toppings
- Crumbled Bacon: Adds a smoky crunch that complements the creaminess.
- Extra Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar on top enhances flavor and presentation.
- Sour Cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the richness of the soup.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped chives or parsley provide a bright, fresh flavor contrast.
- Croutons: Offers a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the smooth soup.
Accompaniments
- Warm Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the soup.
- Salad: A light green salad adds freshness and balances the hearty soup.
- Pickles or Olives: These add a tangy bite that contrasts well with the creamy potato soup.
How to Perfect Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Creating the perfect Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your soup is creamy and flavorful.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cheese make a significant difference in taste.
- Control Heat When Adding Dairy: Gradually adding milk and cream prevents curdling. Always keep it on low heat after adding dairy.
- Blend Carefully: When blending hot soup, allow steam to escape. This prevents splatters and ensures safety.
- Season Gradually: Start with less salt, as cheese contributes saltiness. Adjust to taste before serving.
- Choose Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes give a creamy texture without needing much blending due to their starch content.
Best Side Dishes for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Pairing sides with your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options to serve alongside.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread offers a flavorful complement that’s easy to prepare.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition, making for a balanced meal.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites are perfect for snacking while enjoying your soup.
- Quiche Lorraine: A slice of this savory pie adds elegance while balancing flavors beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides sweetness that offsets the hearty flavors of the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a delicious Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls you should avoid for the best results.
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Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Always shred your cheese fresh for the creamiest texture.
-
Ignoring Garlic Cooking Time: Cooking garlic too long can lead to bitterness. Add it after the onions are softened and cook it just until fragrant.
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Not Scraping the Pot: Failing to scrape up browned bits while adding broth can diminish flavor. Always whisk well to incorporate those tasty bits back into your soup.
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Overcooking Potatoes: Cooking potatoes beyond tenderness can turn them mushy. Keep an eye on them; they should be tender but still hold their shape.
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Rushing the Dairy Addition: Adding dairy too quickly or at too high a temperature can cause curdling. Stir in dairy gradually over low heat for a smooth finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
-
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
-
Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
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Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until hot. Add a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
You can use other potatoes like Russets or red potatoes, but Yukon Golds provide a creamy texture that’s hard to beat.
How do I make this soup vegetarian?
To keep the recipe vegetarian, simply swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit any meat garnishes like bacon.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup is ideal for meal prep and tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.
Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for regular flour in this recipe, ensuring it’s safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.
What are some topping ideas for my potato soup?
Consider garnishing with crumbled bacon, extra cheddar cheese, sour cream, fresh herbs, or crispy croutons for added texture and flavor!
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is truly comforting and versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the herbs used. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the quintessential comfort food that envelops you in warmth on chilly nights. This creamy, rich soup combines tender Yukon Gold potatoes with aromatic herbs and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a delightful dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. With its easy preparation and customizable toppings, this soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough to be enjoyed as a main course or a side. The blend of garlic, herbs, and cheese will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (or olive oil)
- 1 large yellow onion
- 5–6 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley and chives
Instructions
- Peel and cube the potatoes into uniform ½-inch pieces; rinse under cold water.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat; sauté chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in broth until smooth.
- Add potatoes, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until tender.
- Blend half the soup until smooth; return it to the pot.
- Stir in milk, cream (if using), fresh herbs, and cheese on low heat until melted and creamy.
- Season to taste before serving hot with your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
