Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: 15 Min Magic

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Cheddar garlic herb potato soup has been my ultimate comfort food for as long as I can remember. It’s that perfect bowl of creamy, savory goodness that just hugs you from the inside, especially on a chilly evening. I have such fond memories of my mom making this easy potato soup recipe on snowy days, the aroma of garlic and herbs filling our entire home. This recipe is a fantastic way to bring that same warmth to your table, making it one of the best winter holiday chocolate chip cookie ideas for a cozy gathering. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This soup is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly comforting and packed with delicious flavors.

Incredible Flavor: Rich cheddar cheese, aromatic garlic, and savory herbs create a taste sensation you won’t forget.
Quick Prep: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have this hearty meal on the table in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with potatoes and herbs, it’s a nutritious choice that feels indulgent.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that make a big impact, proving you don’t need fancy items for a delicious meal.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this creamy, cheesy goodness, making it an ideal recipe for everyone.
Versatile Pairing: It’s the perfect main course or a delightful starter, pairing wonderfully with a crisp salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Festive Charm: Its warm, inviting nature makes it a standout among your Christmas chocolate chip cookies winter wonderland treats, adding a savory note to holiday gatherings.

Ingredients for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Gather these simple items for a bowl of pure comfort. This easy potato soup recipe comes together with pantry staples and fresh produce, making it a go-to for any occasion, even as a savory counterpoint to your festive chocolate chip cookies winter wonderland treats.

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced – These waxy potatoes hold their shape beautifully and create a wonderfully creamy texture.
1 tablespoon butter – The base for sautéing our aromatics, adding a touch of richness.
1 medium onion, finely chopped – Provides a sweet, savory foundation for the soup.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that pungent, irresistible garlic flavor.
6 cups vegetable broth – The liquid base that carries all the delicious flavors. You can also use chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme) – Adds an earthy, slightly floral note that complements the potatoes and cheese perfectly.
1/2 cup heavy cream – This makes the soup luxuriously creamy and smooth.
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – The star of the show for that irresistible cheesy, tangy finish.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – To perfectly balance and enhance all the flavors.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and fresh, herbaceous finish.

How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Making this comforting soup is straightforward, even if you’re new to cooking. Follow these simple steps for a bowl of pure deliciousness, perfect for any winter gathering or as a savory contrast to your festive chocolate chip cookies winter wonderland treats.

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Begin by melting the 1 tablespoon of butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Next, stir in the 4 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute or two until it’s wonderfully fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 2: Simmer the Potatoes

Now, add the 2 pounds of diced Yukon Gold potatoes and 6 cups of vegetable broth to the pot. Don’t forget to include the 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves for that lovely herbal note. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. The aroma filling your kitchen will tell you it’s almost ready!

Step 3: Blend and Finish

Once the potatoes are tender, you can blend the soup to your desired consistency. For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot, blending until it’s smooth but still has some texture. Alternatively, carefully transfer about half of the soup to a regular blender, process until smooth, and then return it to the pot. Stir in the 1/2 cup of heavy cream and the 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is wonderfully smooth and creamy.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Want to elevate your soup game? These little tricks will make your cheddar garlic herb potato soup truly unforgettable. They’re simple but make a huge difference in texture and flavor, ensuring this is a recipe you’ll turn to again and again, even when planning your winter holiday chocolate chip cookie ideas.

Always use good quality cheddar cheese and shred it yourself from a block; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your soup grainy.
Don’t rush the sautéing of onions and garlic; developing their sweetness and fragrance is key to the soup’s depth.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the very end after adding the cheese, as cheese can add saltiness.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

The real secret lies in using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and shredding sharp cheddar cheese yourself. This ensures a smooth, rich soup that’s far superior to anything from a can, making it a standout among your festive chocolate chip cookies winter wonderland treats. For more on achieving the perfect soup consistency, check out these recipe tips.

Can I make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup up to the point of adding the cream and cheese a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, then stir in the cream and cheese until melted.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

A common pitfall is over-blending, which can make the soup gummy. Blend only until mostly smooth. Also, be careful not to burn the garlic – it turns bitter quickly. Sauté it gently over low heat. Understanding ingredient properties can help prevent these issues; learn more about ingredient science.

Best Ways to Serve Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This hearty soup is a meal in itself, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to make your dining experience even more delightful. Imagine serving this alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette – the freshness cuts through the soup’s richness perfectly. For a truly comforting meal, consider a crusty baguette or some homemade cornbread for dipping. These dippers are fantastic for soaking up every last drop of that creamy, cheesy goodness, making it a perfect savory pairing for your festive chocolate chip cookies winter wonderland treats.

Nutrition Facts for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This creamy and comforting soup is a satisfying meal choice. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (1.5 cups) for this delicious cheddar garlic herb potato soup:

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 700mg
Cholesterol: 45mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of cheese and broth. For more information on general nutrition, you can consult resources like the National Nutrition Portal.

How to Store and Reheat Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Properly storing and reheating this delicious soup ensures you can enjoy its comforting flavors for days to come. Once your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it into airtight containers. For refrigeration, it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep. If you plan to store it for longer, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just ensure your containers are freezer-safe. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheating is simple: gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or use your microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated through. This makes it easy to enjoy leftovers, just like you would with your festive chocolate chip cookies winter theme.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

What makes this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup so creamy?

The magic comes from a few key things! We use Yukon Gold potatoes, which have a wonderful creamy texture when cooked. Then, the addition of heavy cream and, of course, plenty of melted sharp cheddar cheese creates that luxuriously smooth and decadent finish. It’s a comforting bowl that’s perfect for a cold day, much like enjoying a batch of festive chocolate chip cookies winter theme.

Can I make this soup vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, you absolutely can! To make it vegan, substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use vegetable broth, and replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer. For the cheese, opt for your favorite dairy-free cheddar shreds. This makes it a wonderful option for many dietary needs, even alongside your Christmas chocolate chip cookies winter wonderland.

How thick or thin should the soup be?

The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability! You can control the thickness by how much you blend it. For a chunkier soup, blend only partially. If you prefer it super smooth and thick, blend more thoroughly. If it’s too thick for your liking after adding the cream and cheese, simply stir in a little more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. This ensures it’s just right, like finding the perfect Winter Wonderland chocolate chip cookie recipe.

Variations of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! You can easily tailor this soup to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For a smoky twist, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chipotle powder when you add the garlic. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using milk instead of heavy cream, or even a plant-based milk for a dairy-free version – it’s still delicious and comforting, much like a batch of festive chocolate chip cookies winter theme. You could also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or chives for a unique flavor profile. For an extra hearty meal, serve this soup with a side of crusty bread, perfect for dipping, just like you would your favorite Winter Wonderland chocolate chip cookie recipe. Learn more about home cooking.