If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, you’ve come to the right place! Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe is just what you need on those chilly nights. This soup is creamy, loaded with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and comforting or for family gatherings where everyone will gather around the table with smiles.

This recipe has been a family favorite of mine for years. I love how the simple ingredients create such rich flavors. Plus, it’s so easy to make that anyone can whip it up! You’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand for those moments when comfort food is a must.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super easy to make: With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious soup ready in no time!
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and hearty potatoes.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—just reheat and savor!
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or swap in different herbs to make it your own.
Ultimate comfort food: There’s nothing like a warm bowl of this soup to brighten your day!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will have you on your way to making this delightful soup in no time. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large yellow onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives, plus more for garnish
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional toppings: crispy bacon bits, sour cream, croutons

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Add extra veggies: Toss in some carrots or celery when sautéing the onions for added texture and flavor.
Make it spicy: Stir in some diced jalapeños or use spicy cheese if you like a kick!
Swap the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil to change up the flavor profile.
Creamy without dairy: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version that still delivers on creaminess.

How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, add chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent (5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally. Sautéing the onion first builds a beautiful base flavor that will enhance your entire soup!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs

Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Then sprinkle in dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried sage, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together; this step fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Step 3: Build Soup Base

Pour in chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and add cubed Yukon Gold potatoes. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing heat to a simmer. Cover and let it bubble away for about 15-20 minutes until those potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.

Step 4: Blend Soup

Here’s where the magic happens! Use an immersion blender right in the pot until smooth. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer batches while allowing steam to escape by removing the center piece of the lid covered with a kitchen towel. Blending creates that silky consistency we all love!

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Return any blended soup back into the pot if needed. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese over low heat until melted into creamy perfection—just be careful not to let it boil at this stage!

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Finally, stir in chopped fresh chives and parsley, reserving some for garnish later!

Step 7: Ladle & Enjoy!

Ladle your beautiful soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with more shredded cheddar cheese, chives, and parsley. Add any optional toppings you desire like crispy bacon bits or croutons for an extra crunch.

Now you’re ready to enjoy every spoonful of this delightful Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! It truly is comfort food at its finest.

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Making this soup to perfection is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to elevate your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup experience.

Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like chives and parsley not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant color that makes your soup visually appealing.
Control the Creaminess: If you want a lighter version, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with whole milk. This keeps the soup creamy without being overly rich.
Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt and pepper, and taste as you go. This allows you to find the perfect balance without over-seasoning.
Experiment with Cheese: While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for a different flavor profile that adds a delightful twist.
Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time, let the flavors meld overnight, and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Serving this delicious soup can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas to present your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup beautifully.

Garnishes

Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar cheese on top not only adds flavor but also creates an inviting look.
Fresh Herb Sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh chives or parsley on top provide a lovely touch of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup, adding a satisfying crunch and texture.
Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup while keeping the meal balanced.
Garlic Bread: For those who can’t resist garlic flavor, serving buttery garlic bread alongside enhances the overall experience of enjoying this comforting dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and contrast in texture. Think roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a wholesome addition.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup will not only be delicious but also a feast for the eyes! Enjoy every spoonful!

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Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting bowl anytime you desire. With just a few simple steps, you can make this delightful soup ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing

Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
Label each container with the date and type of soup.
Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Reheating

For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
If reheating from frozen, thaw first (in the fridge or microwave) before heating on the stove.
Adjust consistency with a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting recipe.

Can I make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup meat-free while still delicious!

How can I enhance the flavor of my Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or leeks. You can also experiment with fresh herbs in addition to chives and parsley!

How long does Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup last in the fridge?

This creamy soup lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. Enjoy it as leftovers!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. Perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings, I encourage you to try this recipe and savor each spoonful. Happy cooking!