Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Creamy & Flavorful Comfort Food Recipe

There’s something incredibly cozy about a warm bowl of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup—it’s the kind of dish that wraps you up in comfort with every bite. Whether you’re curled up on a cold evening or serving up dinner for the family, this creamy, hearty soup brings a sense of warmth and joy to any occasion. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this recipe is perfect for those days when you want a filling, flavorful meal without all the fuss. It’s a soup that feels like a hug, both in taste and spirit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, you’ll need:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

Step‑By‑Step Instructions

1. Prep your veggies: Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes. Dice your onion and mince the garlic, setting them aside for later.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until soft and fragrant. Add the garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
3. Cook the potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and stir to coat with the oil and aromatics. Let them cook for a few minutes while you prepare the broth.
4. Add the broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Mash it up: Once the potatoes are soft, use a potato masher or a fork to mash them slightly right in the pot. This will give your soup a creamy, hearty texture. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender or regular blender to blend it until creamy.
6. Add milk and seasoning: Pour in the milk (or cream for a richer taste), then add the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Cheddar magic: Once the soup has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Consistency tip: If you like a thicker soup, use a potato masher to mash the potatoes more. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the soup with an immersion blender.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the soup has thickened too much.
• Spice control: Want to kick up the flavor? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Recipe Variations

1. Add protein: Try adding cooked chicken or bacon bits to the soup for a more filling dish.
2. Dairy-free: Swap the milk for coconut milk or almond milk and use dairy-free cheese for a lighter, vegan version.
3. Extra veggies: For a heartier soup, add carrots, celery, or even spinach. They blend well with the creamy texture and add extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup with a warm, buttered piece of crusty bread or a side salad for a well-rounded meal. The rich, cheesy flavor of the soup pairs beautifully with a crisp, fresh salad to balance the richness.

Recipe info

Conclusion

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any season, but especially perfect for chilly nights when you want something that feels like a warm hug. It’s simple, filling, and bursting with flavors that will make your kitchen feel like home. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with loved ones, this soup is bound to become a new family favorite. Cozy up and enjoy every spoonful!