Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Warm up with this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Packed with flavors from garlic and herbs, this soup is both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy meal, this recipe will delight your taste buds and warm your soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and heavy cream creates a luscious texture that’s hard to resist.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, this soup is easy to whip up without a long shopping list.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a starter or main course, this soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Comfort Food: Ideal for chilly evenings, it brings warmth and comfort in every bowl.
• Quick Preparation: With only 40 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delicious soup in no time.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools for making the Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Having the right equipment on hand will ensure smooth cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Potato masher or immersion blender
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking of ingredients while providing enough room for all components of the soup.
• Potato masher or immersion blender: These tools help achieve the desired creamy texture, whether you prefer some chunks or a completely smooth soup.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving your delicious Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup into bowls without spills.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 4 large potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Add 4 diced potatoes along with 4 cups of broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 3: Blend for Creaminess

For a creamy texture, partially mash the potatoes with a potato masher or use an immersion blender for a smoother consistency.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Add 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired. Enjoy your hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup!

How to Serve Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Serving Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the soup alongside a warm, crusty baguette for dipping and soaking up the creamy goodness.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add an extra burst of flavor and color.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Pair the soup with a light green salad dressed in a vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in an edible bread bowl, making it a complete meal that’s also easy to enjoy.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top adds richness and enhances the flavors of the garlic and herbs.

With Cheese Toasts

• Serve toasted bread topped with melted cheese on the side for an extra cheesy experience that complements the soup perfectly.

How to Perfect Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Creating the perfect Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can be simple with these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes, herbs, and garlic enhance the overall flavor and aroma of your soup.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash more potatoes or reduce the amount of broth added.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different types of cheese for varied flavors; Gruyère or Monterey Jack work well.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporating vegetables like carrots or spinach can add nutrition and color to your soup.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go when adding salt and pepper to ensure balance without overwhelming flavors.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Pairing sides with your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and tang that pairs wonderfully with rich flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy contrast to creamy textures.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an elegant side that complements the soup’s taste.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh veggies offers a nutritious option alongside the hearty soup.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic grilled cheese is always a hit, making it even cozier during chilly days.
7. Pita Chips with Hummus: Crunchy pita chips served with hummus provide texture and flavor that pairs nicely with potato soup.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to savory potato soup, completing your meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial for the best flavor and texture.

• Boldly skip the seasoning – Neglecting to season your soup can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Boldly overcook the potatoes – Cooking the potatoes too long can make them mushy. Aim for fork-tender, usually around 15-20 minutes of simmering.
• Boldly forget to blend – Not blending the soup can leave it chunky if that’s not desired. Use a potato masher or immersion blender for a creamy texture.
• Boldly ignore the cheese temperature – Adding cold cheese to hot soup can cause clumping. Let your cheese come to room temperature before mixing in.
• Boldly skip garnishing – Serving without garnishes can make your dish look uninviting. Top with fresh herbs or extra cheese for added appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave – Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup:

Can I use other vegetables in Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

You can add vegetables like carrots or celery for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onion.

How do I make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup healthier?

To lighten up this soup, consider using low-fat cream and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add more veggies!

Can I use plant-based alternatives in the recipe?

Yes! Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of cheddar cheese for a vegan version.

What can I serve with Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, salads, or grilled sandwiches for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a favorite among many. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables to suit your taste preferences!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Warm up with a bowl of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. This creamy and savory soup combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar cheese and fragrant herbs, creating a delightfully satisfying dish that’s simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this hearty soup in under 40 minutes. Perfect as a starter or main course, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. Each spoonful is like a warm hug, making it an ideal meal for cozy evenings at home.

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Ingredients

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• 4 large potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add the diced potatoes and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. For a creamy texture, partially mash the potatoes with a potato masher or use an immersion blender for smoother consistency.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Ladle into bowls and garnish as desired before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 382
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 70mg