Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup | Creamy & Cozy Fall Recipe Idea

Nothing says cozy comfort food like a steaming bowl of creamy potato soup. This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is everything you want on a crisp fall day—rich, hearty, and packed with warm flavors that make you feel right at home. Made with simple pantry staples, fresh herbs, and melty cheddar cheese, this soup is beginner-friendly yet special enough to serve for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to curl up with under a blanket, maybe with some crusty bread for dipping. Let’s get cooking!

Recipe Info:

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 5 cups)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
• 1 cup milk (whole milk or 2%)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: extra shredded cheddar, fresh chives, or turkey bacon bits

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics
   In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
2. Cook the potatoes
   Add diced potatoes, broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15–18 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Mash for creaminess
   Using a potato masher, lightly mash some of the potatoes right in the pot. This helps thicken the soup while leaving chunks for texture.
4. Add dairy and herbs
   Stir in milk, cream, and parsley. Let simmer for 5 more minutes, stirring often to avoid sticking.
5. Melt in the cheese
   Reduce heat to low. Slowly stir in shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve and enjoy
   Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, parsley, or turkey bacon bits for a cozy finish.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Texture preference: For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender. For a chunkier version, mash only half the potatoes.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat. Avoid freezing, as dairy can separate.
• Spice control: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’d like a mild kick.

Recipe Variations

• Protein boost: Add cooked shredded chicken, beef ham cubes, or turkey sausage slices for a heartier version.
• Lighter dairy option: Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter but still creamy soup.
• Vegetarian version: Use vegetable broth and skip the meat-based garnishes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a warm loaf of crusty bread or garlic knots.
• Serve alongside a crisp garden salad with vinaigrette.
• Garnish with fresh chives, turkey bacon crumbles, or an extra sprinkle of cheddar for a restaurant-style touch.

Conclusion

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the perfect recipe to warm up chilly evenings and gather everyone around the table. It’s simple, comforting, and full of flavor you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your favorite soup bowl, ladle it up, and savor every creamy, cozy bite!