Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup 🥔🧀🌿

1. Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate guide on preparing a delicious potato soup that will warm your soul and impress your taste buds. This cheesy potato soup is loaded with flavors from fresh garlic, fragrant herbs, and rich cheddar cheese, making it the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or a quick weeknight dinner, this garlic herb potato soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh chives or parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making This Loaded Potato Soup

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into uniform pieces. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves to ensure they blend well into the soup.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the potatoes are submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.

Puree the Soup

Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Be cautious with hot liquids—blend in batches if necessary. For a chunkier texture, blend partially or leave some potato chunks intact.

Add Cream and Cheese

Return the blended soup to the pot if using a blender. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Season with dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Simmer and Serve

Let the soup simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley before serving hot.

4. Tips for Making Perfect Potato Soup

For a richer flavor, use sharp cheddar and extra butter.
To make this potato soup vegan, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and vegan cheese.
Adjust the consistency by adding more broth or cream as desired.
For a thicker soup, blend fewer potatoes or add a thickening agent like a cornstarch slurry.

5. Storage and Reheating

Allow the loaded potato soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy texture if needed.

6. Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Potato Soup

Pair this hearty soup with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal. For added texture, top with crumbled bacon, additional shredded cheese, or diced green onions. This garlic herb potato soup makes a perfect lunch or dinner option, especially on cold days.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Can I make this potato soup vegetarian?**

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure the cheese and other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.

Can I substitute the cheese?

Absolutely. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend to customize the flavor.

How long does it take to prepare this potato soup?

The entire process takes approximately 40-45 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

What are good gluten-free garnishes?

Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or green onions are naturally gluten-free and add vibrant flavor and color to your soup.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: An all-in-one appliance that speeds up prep and cooking, perfect for quick meals including hearty soups.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Offers durable, nonstick pots and pans for effortless cooking and cleanup.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer: Adds versatility for side dishes or to prepare crispy toppings for your soup.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista: Perfect for a comforting coffee pairing with your soup.

Investing in high-quality kitchen tools can elevate your cooking experience and make the process more efficient and enjoyable.

9. Conclusion

Now that you have the full recipe for a creamy, cheesy potato soup, you can enjoy a warm, satisfying meal in no time. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a perfect choice for weeknights, gatherings, or whenever you crave something hearty. Don’t forget to customize the toppings and seasonings to suit your taste. Happy cooking!

Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup