Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: The Creamy Comfort You Need

Have you ever craved a warm bowl of soup that wraps you in a cozy hug? If so, you’re in for a treat! This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a dish that not only comforts but also delights with its rich flavors and creamy texture. It combines the robust taste of cheddar cheese, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs to create a memorable experience with every spoonful.

Overview

What makes this recipe stand out? It’s all about the layers of flavors and creamy consistency that come together perfectly in under 1 hour. With a difficulty level of just moderate, even novice cooks can whip up this hearty dish with confidence!

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Active Time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup:

• Potatoes: 2.5 lbs of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces. They add creaminess and body.
• Fat: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter or 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter for flavor and richness.
• Aromatics:

– 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups) to give a sweet base flavor.
– 5–6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons) for that robust garlicky punch.

• Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour helps thicken the soup for that ideal creamy consistency.
• Liquid Base:

– 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth for a flavorful foundation.
– 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness) to make it creamy.
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional but recommended) for ultimate creaminess.

• Cheese: 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded. Avoid pre-shredded cheese for better melting.
• Herbs:

– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped to brighten the flavor.
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme) for an aromatic touch.

• Seasoning:

– 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper for flavor enhancement.
– A pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a hint of warmth.

• Optional Garnish:

– Cooked crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, more fresh chives or parsley, and croutons for an added crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into making this comforting dish!

1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by peeling and cubing the Yukon Gold potatoes. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.

2. Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter (or heat olive oil and butter) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Add the Flour: Sprinkle the flour into the pot, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. This creates a roux that will thicken your soup.

4. Pour in the Broth: Gradually, whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, scraping any bits off the bottom of the pot.

5. Add Potatoes: Stir in the cubed potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

6. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. You can also carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.

7. Stir in the Dairy: Add the whole milk and heavy cream (if using), stirring well. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the soup.

8. Season and Add Herbs: Stir in fresh parsley, chives, thyme, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne or smoked paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of bacon, cheddar, sour cream, chives, or croutons.

Assembly & Presentation

The visual appeal of your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is just as important as its taste. Serve it steaming hot in your favorite bowls and consider garnishing with:

• A sprinkle of chives and parsley for a pop of color.
• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
• A generous handful of croutons or crispy bacon to add texture.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is perfect for making in advance. Here’s how to store and enjoy it later:

• Refrigerator: Keep the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
• Freezer: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Keep Flavors Fresh: Avoid adding cheese or garnish to the whole batch before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

Get creative with these twists on the classic Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup:

• Vegan Version: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter base, use coconut milk, and nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery version.
• Loaded Baked Potatoes: Top with cooked bacon, cheese, and green onions for a twist on loaded baked potatoes.

Conclusion

Cooking should be a joyful journey, so don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and garnishes in your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! Feel free to share your thoughts, variations, and experiences in the comments below. Let’s enjoy the warm goodness of homemade soup together!

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is the star, feel free to mix in gouda, Monterey jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.

2. What if I don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes?

You can use Russet or red potatoes as substitutes, but be aware they might have a different texture.

3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Use vegetable broth, coconut milk, and a dairy-free cheese alternative.

4. How do I thicken the soup more?

If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of the potatoes or add a bit more flour to the roux.

5. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh side salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.

Now, get ready to dig into a bowl of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup—the ultimate creamy comfort!

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