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Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl Recipe

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 8 reviews

Creamy and comforting Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup made with Yukon Gold potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, fresh herbs, and a flavorful blend of garlic and spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a hearty lunch, this soup offers a rich, smooth texture and a warm, satisfying taste that’s easy to prepare and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Potatoes and Broth

  • 6 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 2 pounds)
  • 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)

Dairy and Cheese

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish

Fresh Herbs and Seasoning

  • 1/2 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

  • Crumbled bacon
  • Sour cream
  • Croutons

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent to develop sweet flavor.
  2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 more minute while stirring constantly until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes along with the chicken broth or vegetable broth to the pot. Ensure potatoes are fully submerged; add extra broth or water if needed.
  4. Simmer Until Tender: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are very tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
  5. Blend the Soup: Carefully transfer soup in batches to a blender, or use an immersion blender in the pot, and blend until smooth and creamy. When using a blender, start on low speed to avoid pressure buildup from hot liquid.
  6. Return to Pot: Pour the smooth blended soup back into the pot over low heat.
  7. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir constantly over low heat until the cheese has melted and the soup is heated through. Avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling.
  8. Season and Add Fresh Herbs: Mix in the chopped fresh chives and parsley. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance all flavors.
  9. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar, fresh chives, parsley, crumbled bacon, sour cream, or croutons as desired. Serve immediately for the best experience.

Notes

  • Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture; Russet potatoes can be used but may result in a starchier soup.
  • Chicken broth adds richness; vegetable broth is a perfect vegetarian alternative.
  • Try different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or smoked Gouda for unique flavors.
  • Increase red pepper flakes or add hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Make it vegan by using vegetable broth, plant-based cream (oat or cashew cream), and vegan cheddar cheese.
  • Add diced carrots, celery, or leeks sautéed with onions and garlic for more vegetable content.
  • For thicker consistency, add a slurry made from 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water while simmering.
  • Soup can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
  • Freeze soup before adding cream and cheese for best texture preservation; add dairy after thawing and reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, creamy potato soup, comfort food soup, cheesy potato soup, garlic herb soup, easy soup recipe, vegetarian soup

Find it online: https://ellaeatsdaily.com/cheddar-garlic-herb-potato-soup-creamy-comfort-in-a-bowl-recipe/