Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: A Creamy Comfort Food Classic

Dive into a bowl of pure comfort with this irresistible Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! This recipe is more than just a simple soup; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a warm, satisfying meal. Imagine the creamy texture of perfectly blended Yukon Gold potatoes, infused with the savory aroma of garlic and herbs, and topped with the sharp, tangy bite of cheddar cheese. This soup is incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to your dietary needs and preferences, and guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Forget takeout – this is the kind of soul-warming goodness you’ll want to make again and again. Get ready to experience the ultimate in creamy, cheesy potato soup perfection!

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With readily available ingredients and a straightforward process, even beginner cooks can confidently whip up a batch. The simplicity doesn’t compromise on flavor, though. The combination of creamy potatoes, aromatic garlic, fragrant herbs, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and sophisticated. It’s the kind of soup that satisfies a craving for something hearty and delicious without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Secondly, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking for alternative ingredients, this recipe adapts beautifully. Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian version, or explore dairy-free cheese options for a vegan twist. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. The base recipe is a sturdy foundation upon which you can build your culinary creativity. This adaptable nature makes it perfect for accommodating various dietary restrictions and preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious soup.

Finally, this soup is incredibly satisfying and warming. It’s a perfect meal on its own, especially on a cold day, and the generous amount of cheese adds a delightful richness and creaminess. It’s also a great base for adding your favorite toppings – from crunchy croutons to a swirl of sour cream – to customize your bowl. The versatility extends to its serving suggestions too. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend lunch, or even a sophisticated appetizer served in shot glasses. Its deliciousness is undeniable, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Check out our creamy garlic parmesan pasta for a similarly satisfying meal.

Why You Should Try This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

In a world of fast food and pre-packaged meals, it’s easy to forget the simple pleasures of homemade comfort food. This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup recipe is a delicious reminder of the joy of creating something delicious and nourishing from scratch. It’s a fantastic way to use seasonal ingredients – particularly potatoes which are readily available throughout the year. The recipe allows you to savor the simple, pure flavors of high-quality ingredients, showcasing the natural goodness of each component. This makes it a wholesome and healthier alternative to many processed soups.

Beyond the taste, making this soup offers a sense of accomplishment and pride. You’ll be amazed at how quickly and easily this delicious soup comes together. The process is therapeutic, providing a mindful escape from the daily grind. This is especially rewarding in our busy modern lives where connecting with food preparation can provide a welcome break. This simple recipe reminds us of the satisfaction of creating something delicious and nourishing from scratch, with minimal effort involved. Try this recipe alongside other crowd-pleasers like our berry watermelon fruit salad for a balanced and flavorful meal.

Finally, this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a perfect opportunity to share a delicious meal with loved ones. Its hearty nature makes it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in with your family. The warm, inviting flavors are sure to bring smiles and create lasting memories. This makes this recipe a great way to connect with family and friends over a delicious, shared meal. The warmth and comfort of this soup offer a perfect way to unwind and bond with those you love. For a sweet treat to complement this savory masterpiece, consider making our classic peanut butter cookies.

Ingredients and Utensils for Your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This section details the ingredients and utensils needed to make this delicious Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. The precise quantities are provided to ensure recipe success and consistent results. Accurate measurements are crucial in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Detailed List of Ingredients:

• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Provides a healthy fat base for sautéing the aromatics.
• Onion (1 large, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Contributes a pungent, savory aroma.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes (2 pounds, peeled and cubed): Offers a creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor. *Keyword: Yukon Gold Potatoes*
• Chicken Broth (6 cups): Creates the base liquid for the soup. (Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option) *Keyword: Chicken Broth*
• Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon): Earthy and slightly lemony flavor enhances the overall taste.
• Dried Rosemary (1 teaspoon): Adds a piney and slightly bitter note for balance.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavors of the soup. *Keyword: Salt*
• Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a touch of spice and complexity.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded): Provides sharpness and creaminess. *Keyword: Sharp Cheddar Cheese*
• Fresh Chives (1/4 cup, chopped, optional): Adds freshness and visual appeal as a garnish.
• Sour Cream or Crème Fraîche (optional): Adds richness and tanginess as a garnish.

Recommended Tools and Utensils:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Provides ample space for cooking the soup.
• Cutting Board: For chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
• Sharp Knife: For safely and efficiently chopping the vegetables.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements for consistent results.
• Blender or Immersion Blender: To create a smooth and creamy texture. *Keyword: Blender*
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the soup while cooking.
• Ladle: To serve the soup into bowls.
• Serving Bowls: For enjoying the delicious soup.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a perfect batch of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Each step is explained in detail, providing tips and tricks for optimal results. Take your time and enjoy the process of creating this delicious and comforting meal.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Tip: Don’t rush this step. Allowing the onions to properly soften brings out their natural sweetness.
2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Caution: Don’t burn the garlic. It should be fragrant, not brown.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes, chicken broth (or vegetable broth), dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot. Tip: Use high-quality broth for the best flavor. *Keyword: Yukon Gold Potatoes*
4. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender and easily pierced with a fork. Tip: Check the potatoes for doneness towards the end of the simmering time. Overcooked potatoes can become mushy.
5. Blend the Soup: Remove the pot from the heat and carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender). Important Safety Note: Be extremely cautious when blending hot liquids. Vent the lid slightly to allow steam to escape and avoid burns. Blend until the soup is completely smooth and creamy.
6. Stir in Cheese: Return the blended soup to the pot (if using a blender). Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it’s melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Tip: If the cheese doesn’t melt easily, you can briefly reheat the soup over low heat.
7. Season and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired. Tip: Taste testing is crucial. Adjust the seasoning to your personal preference.
8. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives and a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy! Tip: A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper adds a nice finishing touch.

Tips and Variations for Your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This section provides useful tips for avoiding common mistakes and suggests variations to personalize your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Experimentation is encouraged!

Ingredient Alternatives:

• Potato Variety: While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can experiment with other potato varieties like russet or red potatoes. However, keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly.
• Broth: Vegetable broth makes a delicious vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different types of broth, such as beef or ham broth, to add a unique flavor profile.
• Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack, for a varied flavor profile. For vegan options, try nutritional yeast or a vegan cheddar cheese alternative.
• Herbs and Spices: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky or spicy kick. Other herbs like parsley or oregano can also be added for a unique flavor.

Avoiding Common Mistakes:

• Don’t overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will become mushy. Aim for tender but not falling-apart potatoes.
• Be careful when blending hot liquids: Always vent the blender lid to avoid burns. Use caution when handling hot soup.
• Don’t burn the garlic: Garlic burns easily. Cook it only until fragrant.
• Season properly: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Salt and pepper are your friends!

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

While precise nutritional values depend on the specific ingredients used, Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup offers several nutritional benefits. This section highlights the nutritional aspects and the health benefits derived from its key ingredients. Remember that these are estimations and can vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.

Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving): These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion size. It’s always recommended to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.

• Calories: Approximately 300-350
• Protein: Approximately 10-15 grams
• Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40 grams

Health Benefits of Ingredients:

• Potatoes: A good source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. Yukon Gold potatoes are particularly rich in vitamin C.
• Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Thyme and Rosemary: Both are rich in antioxidants and have potential health benefits.
• Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth): Provides electrolytes and can be a source of protein (chicken broth) or vitamins and minerals (vegetable broth).
• Cheddar Cheese: A source of calcium and protein. However, it’s important to consume in moderation due to its fat content.

FAQs

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup!

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup recipe is a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and comforting warmth make it a perfect meal for any occasion. We hope you’ve enjoyed this detailed guide and are now ready to create your own delicious bowl of this heartwarming classic.

Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us! Let us know in the comments below how your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup turned out, and share your own tips and variations. Share your photos on Pinterest using the hashtag #CheddarGarlicHerbPotatoSoup and tag us RecipesAmayaBlog! We can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!

Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

A comforting and flavorful potato soup with sharp cheddar cheese, garlic, herbs, and a creamy texture. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 large Onion chopped
• 4 cloves Garlic minced
• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and cubed
• 6 cups Chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup Chopped fresh chives for garnish, optional
• as needed Sour cream or crème fraîche for garnish, optional

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Immersion blender or regular blender
• Cutting board
• Knife

Method

 

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
3. Add potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are very tender.
4. Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
5. Return the soup to the pot (if using a blender) and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired.
7. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives and a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For a thicker soup, simmer uncovered for a few minutes after blending to reduce the liquid. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrients. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.