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Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a creamy, hearty, and comforting soup that blends tender russet potatoes with sharp cheddar cheese, infused with savory garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect for chilly days or feeding a crowd, this soup offers rich flavors and a velvety texture that warms both body and soul.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Broth and Dairy

  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk or cream

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 12 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Peel and dice the potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. Mince the fresh garlic and finely chop the thyme, parsley, and chives for bright, fresh herbal flavor.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook Potatoes in Broth: Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  4. Blend for Creaminess: Using an immersion blender, puree part of the soup directly in the pot to create a thick but chunky texture. Alternatively, transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, pulse until smooth, and return it to the pot.
  5. Add Cheese, Milk, and Herbs: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and warm milk or cream, allowing the cheese to melt fully into the soup. Add the chopped fresh herbs, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Final Simmer and Adjust: Let the soup simmer for another 3-5 minutes so flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning or add more herbs if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Choose russet potatoes for their high starch content to achieve the best creamy texture.
  • Shred the cheddar cheese finely to help it melt smoothly into the soup.
  • Do not overblend the soup; leave some potato chunks for texture.
  • Use fresh herbs for brighter flavor compared to dried herbs.
  • Season gradually with salt and pepper to avoid over-seasoning.
  • Let the soup rest covered for 10-15 minutes before serving to deepen the flavor.
  • Garnish with chopped chives, extra shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, sour cream, or a drizzle of olive oil for added texture and flavor contrast.
  • Pair with crusty bread, garlic rolls, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • To make vegan, substitute vegetable broth, use dairy-free cheese alternatives, and replace milk or cream with plant-based milk.
  • Freezes well for 2-3 months; reheat gently with added broth or milk if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheddar potato soup, garlic potato soup, herb potato soup, creamy potato soup, comfort food soup, gluten free soup