Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
This hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup is a comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Packed with creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making this soup is an enjoyable experience.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make this hearty potato soup. First and foremost, it’s incredibly comforting, embodying the warmth of homemade meals. The rich flavors of cheddar cheese combined with the garlic and herbs create a delicious soup that is both satisfying and nourishing.
Moreover, it’s easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can whip up a delightful dish perfect for lunch or dinner.
Equipment Needed for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
To make this delicious potato soup, you will need some basic kitchen equipment. First, you’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the soup. Having a cutting board and knife for chopping the vegetables is essential too.
A standard blender is necessary to achieve that creamy texture. Having measuring cups and spoons handy helps ensure precise ingredient amounts. Lastly, having a ladle for serving will make it easier to dish out this delicious soup into bowls.
What You Need to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- Potatoes: 2.5 lbs (about 1.1 kg) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces (about 6-7 medium potatoes)
- Fat: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter OR 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter
- Aromatics:
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups)
- 5-6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
- Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (helps thicken the soup)
- Liquid Base:
- 4 cups (32 fl oz / 950 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups (16 fl oz / 475 ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- 1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 120 ml) heavy cream (optional, but recommended for ultimate creaminess)
- Cheese: 2 cups (about 8 oz / 225g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (avoid pre-shredded for better melting)
- Herbs:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (or to taste)
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of warmth)
- Optional Garnish:
- Cooked crumbled bacon
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- More fresh chives or parsley
- Croutons
How to Cook Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Step by Step
Start by peeling the Yukon Gold potatoes and chopping them into uniform ½-inch cubes. Rinse the cubed potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch, as this helps prevent the soup from becoming gummy. Once rinsed, set them aside.
Next, place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter or the olive oil/butter combination, allowing it to melt and shimmer. Then, add the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté the onions for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become translucent, taking care not to brown them.
After the onions, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to ensure it becomes fragrant without burning. If garlic burns, it will give an unpleasant bitterness to the soup.
Now, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for around 1-2 minutes. This will cook out the raw flour taste, creating a roux that helps thicken the soup.
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, adding a little at a time. It’s essential to scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any flavorful browned bits, known as fond. Keep whisking to prevent lumps from forming. When fully combined, bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the drained potato cubes to the pot, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender enough to be pierced easily with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Now, it’s time to create that creamy texture while keeping some potato chunks for heartiness. You have two options here. The first is to carefully ladle about half of the soup into a standard blender. Secure the lid tightly but remove the center cap and cover the opening with a folded kitchen towel to allow steam to escape. Blend until smooth, and then pour it back into the pot with the remaining chunky soup.
The second option is to use an immersion blender directly in the pot for a quicker method. Blend it to your desired consistency, ensuring some chunks remain.
Next, lower the heat to low. Gradually pour in the whole milk (or half-and-half) and the heavy cream if you are using it, stirring constantly. Then, add in the fresh parsley, chives, and thyme. Stir well to combine everything and allow the soup to heat gently for about five minutes. It’s crucial not to let it boil after adding the dairy, as this can cause curdling.
Once heated through, remove the pot from heat completely. Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, stirring continuously. Ensure each addition is fully melted before adding the next. This step is essential to avoid a grainy texture in the soup.
Finally, taste the soup and season it generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika if you desire a hint of warmth. Remember that cheese adds saltiness, so it’s best to season gradually.
Ladle the hot, creamy soup into serving bowls. Garnish generously with your chosen toppings like crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh chives, or croutons. Serve and enjoy immediately for the best flavor!
How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Serving this hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup is simple. Use a ladle to dish out steaming bowls of soup, ensuring you include both creamy broth and tender potato pieces.
To make it visually appealing, try to distribute the garnishes evenly across servings. You can serve the garnished soup alongside crusty bread or simple dinner rolls, creating a well-rounded meal.
What to Serve with Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
When it comes to pairing this comforting potato soup, consider serving it with some delicious sides. A fresh, crisp garden salad works beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
For a heartier option, try serving it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a simple turkey sandwich. This combination will leave everyone feeling satisfied and happy.
How to Store Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Storing this creamy soup is quite easy. Once it has cooled, transfer the soup into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will maintain quality for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then reheat on the stove over low heat. Stir frequently to ensure even warming, and add a splash of milk or broth if it has thickened too much.
Tips to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
For the best results, choose fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially the cheese, as it significantly impacts the final flavor. Always opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting.
Don’t rush the sautéing steps. Taking time to properly cook the onions and garlic will enhance the soup’s overall flavor profile. Always taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly based on personal preference.
Variation (If Any)
You can easily modify this recipe to cater to personal tastes or dietary needs. For a healthier version, consider using olive oil instead of butter and low-fat milk in place of whole milk.
Adding different ingredients can also provide a fun twist. Incorporating vegetables such as carrots or celery during the sautéing steps can boost nutritional value and flavor complexity.
Best Time to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
This soup shines as a staple during the colder months. Fall and winter are the best times to indulge in this delicious, warming dish.
However, with its rich, comforting qualities, this soup can be a delightful choice for cozy gatherings any time of year.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not rinsing the potatoes. This step is crucial to prevent the soup from becoming too starchy and gummy.
Another tip is to keep an eye on the heat after adding dairy. High heat can cause the cream to curdle, ruining the creamy consistency of the soup. Stir continuously during this phase for the smoothest result.
Lastly, overcooking the potatoes can also result in a mushy texture, so monitor cooking time closely to achieve tender but not falling apart potatoes.
Nutritional Notes (Optional)
This hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup offers a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and protein. Potatoes provide dietary fiber and essential vitamins, while cheese adds calcium and protein.
If you modify ingredients to leaner options, the soup can be tailored to fit various dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can substitute dairy with plant-based alternatives such as coconut milk or almond milk. Use nutritional yeast in place of cheddar cheese for a cheesy flavor.
How long does this soup take to cook?
The total cooking time for this soup is around 45 minutes, including prep time and simmering.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is recommended for its flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for different taste experiences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup is a delightful recipe that showcases simplicity and comfort in each bowl. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it an enjoyable dish that can be served various ways.
Whether enjoyed on a cold night or served at a friendly gathering, this soup certainly warms the heart and delights the taste buds. Give this recipe a try, and it may just become a staple in your kitchen!
