Amazing Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

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Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, arriving like a warm hug in a bowl. I’ve discovered that the perfect blend of sharp cheddar cheese, aromatic garlic, and fragrant herbs, all simmering with tender potatoes, creates a savory symphony that’s simply irresistible. This isn’t just any potato soup; it’s a rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying dish that feels incredibly special yet is surprisingly simple to whip up. If you’re looking for an easy cheddar garlic herb potatoes recipe that will become a family favorite, you’ve found it. Get ready to fall in love with this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This soup is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly comforting and satisfying, making it perfect for chilly evenings or when you just need a little pick-me-up. You’ll adore the luxuriously creamy texture that coats your spoon, a direct result of perfectly cooked potatoes and rich dairy. The flavor is out-of-this-world savory, thanks to the winning combination of sharp cheddar, pungent garlic, and fragrant herbs.

It boasts an unbelievably creamy texture that feels so indulgent.
The rich flavor profile, blending cheese, garlic, and herbs, is simply divine.
You can have this delicious soup on the table in under an hour, making it a quick preparation win.
It’s incredibly versatile – serve it as a hearty main course or a delightful side dish.
This soup is the ultimate comfort food, guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.
It uses simple, common ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe whenever you need a fantastic garlic cheddar herb potato recipe.

Ingredients for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this amazing garlic herb potato casserole. We’re using simple, fresh components to build layers of flavor. The star, of course, is the 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced; their starchy nature breaks down beautifully to create a creamy base. We’ll also need 1 medium onion, chopped, and 4 cloves garlic, minced, for that essential aromatic foundation. The liquid gold comes from 8 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth, which carries all the delicious flavors. For that signature richness, we have 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – this is key for both creaminess and that irresistible cheesy flavor. Adding to the luxurious texture is 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half. You’ll also need 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing, 1 teaspoon dried thyme and 1 teaspoon dried rosemary for that classic herby taste. Of course, salt and pepper to taste are crucial for balancing everything. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, for garnish, adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.

How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Learning how to make cheddar garlic herb potatoes is easier than you think! This recipe guides you through creating a wonderfully smooth and flavorful soup. It’s a process that yields truly homemade cheddar garlic herb potatoes, perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Guide

Sautéing Aromatics

Step 1: We begin by building our flavor base. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add the 1 medium onion, chopped, and sauté it for about 5 minutes until it becomes beautifully translucent. Next, stir in the 4 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just one more minute until it’s wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Simmering the Base

Step 2: Now it’s time to add the heart of our soup. Stir in the 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced, along with the 8 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth. Sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon dried thyme and 1 teaspoon dried rosemary. Season with a good pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil.

Step 3: Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. You’re looking for the potatoes to be completely tender when pierced with a fork. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect smooth texture when we blend.

Achieving Creaminess

Step 4: For that signature creamy texture, we’ll blend the soup. You have a couple of options here. The easiest way is to use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Carefully move it around until you reach your desired smoothness. If you don’t have one, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Just be sure to vent the lid and hold it down with a towel, as hot liquids expand! For more information on safe blending techniques, consult food safety guidelines.

Step 5: Return the blended soup to the pot if you used a regular blender. Now, stir in the 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half and the 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded. Keep stirring gently over low heat until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and luscious. This step truly transforms the soup into cheesy garlic herb potatoes.

Final Touches and Serving

Step 6: Taste your creation! This is where you adjust the seasoning. Add more salt and pepper if needed. If the soup seems a bit too thick for your liking, you can stir in a little more broth or water until it reaches your preferred consistency. This ensures your cheddar garlic herb potato soup is just right.

Step 7: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. For a beautiful finish and a burst of fresh flavor, garnish generously with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, homemade cheddar garlic herb potato soup!

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Cheddar Herb Potatoes

To elevate your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato soup from good to absolutely amazing, I’ve picked up a few tricks. Always opt for good quality sharp cheddar cheese; it melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-shredded or mild varieties. If you prefer a little texture rather than a perfectly smooth soup, don’t over-blend. A few small chunks of potato can add a lovely heartiness. While dried herbs work wonderfully, using fresh thyme and rosemary, chopped finely, will give your soup an even more vibrant aroma and taste. For a subtle depth of flavor, try adding just a tiny pinch of nutmeg – it sounds unusual, but it really complements the cheesy, herby notes.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy cheddar garlic herb potatoes?

The secret lies in a few key elements: perfectly tender potatoes that break down easily, the richness from heavy cream, and high-quality sharp cheddar cheese that melts beautifully. The balance of aromatic garlic and savory herbs ties it all together for that unforgettable creamy texture and taste.

Can I make this garlic herb potato casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This garlic herb potato casserole is fantastic for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When reheating, you might need to add a splash more broth or cream to restore its original creamy consistency, as it can thicken upon cooling. For other make-ahead meal ideas, check out these creamy sausage potato chowder recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with cheddar garlic herb potato soup?

A common pitfall is not cooking the potatoes until they are completely tender before blending, which can result in a grainy soup. Also, using low-quality cheese can impact both flavor and meltability. Finally, be mindful of over-salting until you’ve tasted and adjusted at the end, as the broth and cheese already contribute saltiness.

Best Ways to Serve Your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This amazing soup is so versatile, it works wonderfully as a hearty main dish or a delightful side. For a truly satisfying meal, I love pairing it with a thick slice of crusty bread – perfect for sopping up every last drop of that cheesy goodness. If you’re serving it as a side, it makes a fantastic accompaniment to roasted chicken or pork, adding a flavorful touch to your plate. It’s also excellent alongside a simple green salad for a lighter yet still incredibly flavorful option. This dish truly shines as a “cheesy garlic herb potatoes” side that will impress your guests. Consider serving it with a side of southern baked macaroni and cheese for a truly comforting meal.

Nutrition Facts for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato soup is more than just delicious; it’s also a satisfying dish that fits wonderfully into a “cheddar herb potato bake” context. Per serving, you can expect approximately 350 kcal. The soup contains about 20g of fat, contributing to its rich and creamy texture. You’ll also get a good boost of 8g of protein, making it quite filling. While specific values for carbohydrates, fiber, sugar, and sodium can vary based on the exact ingredients and brands you use, this soup offers a comforting and flavorful experience. These figures are estimates, providing a general idea of the nutritional profile for this delectable garlic herb potato casserole. For a different take on potato dishes, explore creamy sausage potato chowder.

How to Store and Reheat Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Properly storing and reheating your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato soup ensures you can enjoy its deliciousness later. Once cooked, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This step is crucial to prevent condensation and maintain quality. Store the containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you have a comforting bowl ready whenever you need it. For longer storage, your soup is also freezer-friendly. Transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving a little headspace for expansion, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. This is a great way to have your homemade cheddar garlic herb potatoes ready on demand.

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored soup, reheating is simple. On the stovetop, gently warm it in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You might need to add a splash of broth or milk to reach your desired consistency, especially if it has thickened. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just cover the bowl loosely and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Remember, a well-stored and reheated bowl of this cheddar garlic potato bake is just as satisfying! If you’re looking for other comforting dishes, consider a baked garlic chicken meatloaf.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheddar Garlic Herb Potatoes

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be dairy-free! For the creaminess, swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer. Instead of cheddar cheese, use your favorite dairy-free cheddar shreds. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious and a wonderful dairy-free garlic herb potato dish.

What kind of potatoes are best for this soup?

Russet potatoes are my go-to for this cheddar garlic herb potato soup because their high starch content breaks down beautifully, creating a naturally thick and creamy base. Yukon Golds are also a good option if you prefer a slightly creamier, waxier texture. Avoid starchy potatoes like fingerlings if you want that classic smooth, comforting consistency.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is very forgiving and a great base for adding other veggies. You could sauté some chopped celery or leeks along with the onion and garlic for extra flavor. Stirring in some cooked broccoli florets or peas near the end is also a tasty option. These additions make your homemade cheddar garlic herb potatoes even more robust.

How can I make this cheddar garlic herb potato soup spicier?

To give your cheddar garlic herb potatoes a kick, I suggest adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce when you add the broth. You could also stir in some finely diced jalapeño along with the onions and garlic for a more integrated heat. Experiment to find your perfect level of spice!

Variations of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potatoes to Try

While this soup is absolutely divine as is, don’t be afraid to get creative with your cheddar garlic herb potato creations! For a “loaded baked potato” twist, stir in some crispy cooked bacon bits and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out some of the cheddar for Gruyère or smoked Gouda for a different cheesy dimension. You can also easily incorporate other vegetables; sautéing leeks or celery with the onions and garlic adds another layer of savory flavor to your garlic cheddar potato gratin. For an entirely different experience that leans into a “garlic cheddar potato gratin” style, you can adapt this recipe into a baked dish. Layer boiled and sliced potatoes with the cheesy garlic herb mixture and bake until bubbly and golden! For a similar comforting side dish, consider chocolate dump cake with caramel.