Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with fragrant herbs, it’s perfect for cozy nights, casual dinners, or when you just need a little comfort food magic. Trust me, each spoonful is loaded with flavor, from the garlicky aroma to the rich, velvety cheddar. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, yet feels like a gourmet treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultra-Creamy Without the Fuss: Blended potatoes create natural creaminess—no heavy cream needed.
  • Cheesy Goodness: Sharp cheddar adds that irresistible savory kick.
  • Herb-Infused Flavor: Fresh herbs elevate the soup, making it taste like it’s been simmering all day.
  • Perfect Comfort Food: Hearty, filling, and cozy for any chilly evening.

Ingredients

All you need for this soup are simple, flavorful ingredients. The measurements will be in the recipe card below, but first, gather these:

  • Potatoes: The star of the show—adds creaminess and heartiness.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Provides rich, savory, melty goodness.
  • Garlic: Infuses the soup with aromatic, savory depth.
  • Onion: Builds a flavorful base.
  • Carrots: Adds subtle sweetness and color.
  • Celery: Brings a classic, aromatic touch.
  • Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Keeps the soup flavorful and smooth.
  • Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Parsley, or Chives): Adds brightness and herbaceous notes.
  • Butter or Olive Oil: For sautéing and richness.
  • Salt and Pepper: Enhances all the flavors.
  • Optional Cream or Milk: For extra creaminess if desired.

Note: The ingredients with exact measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.

How to Make the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots, sautéing until soft and fragrant. Toss in garlic and cook for another minute—oh, can you smell that?

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Add peeled and diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in broth, season with salt, pepper, and herbs, and bring to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are tender and easy to pierce with a fork.

Step 3: Blend for Creaminess

Use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a regular blender) to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Don’t worry, the texture will be perfectly velvety!

Step 4: Add Cheddar and Finish

Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and luscious. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or a splash of milk or cream for added richness.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with fresh herbs, a little extra cheddar, or crispy bacon bits if you’re feeling indulgent.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: They should be tender but not falling apart for the best texture.
  • Use Sharp Cheddar: A sharper cheese gives the soup more depth and flavor.
  • Herbs Make a Difference: Fresh herbs really elevate this soup—don’t skip them!
  • Blend in Batches if Needed: If using a regular blender, blend in small batches to avoid splattering.

How to Serve

Here’s how to enjoy this cozy soup:

  • Garnishes: Top with fresh chives, parsley, extra shredded cheddar, or croutons.
  • With Bread: Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a soft roll.
  • Sides: Pair with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a full meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if it’s too thick.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and it’s just as flavorful and comforting.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses work beautifully. Just adjust to taste.

How can I make this soup extra creamy?
Stir in a bit of heavy cream, half-and-half, or whole milk at the end. Blending the potatoes well also adds natural creaminess.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the soup a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving. The flavors often deepen overnight.

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is pure comfort in a bowl—rich, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned. It’s an easy recipe that feels indulgent, perfect for cozy nights, lunch gatherings, or whenever you need a little taste of home.

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup in a bowl, topped with fresh herbs and shredded cheddar, ready to serve.

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This creamy, cheesy potato soup is packed with garlic and fresh herbs, making it the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Soup Base
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups potatoes peeled and diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
Finishing Ingredients
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh herbs of choice
  • 1 tsp salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Immersion Blender

Method
 

  1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened.
  2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
  4. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
  5. Stir in milk or cream, shredded cheddar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until cheese is melted and soup is creamy.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For extra richness, top with crispy bacon bits or a dollop of sour cream. Use fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for added flavor.

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