Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

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This potato soup recipe is one that holds a special place in my heart. I remember snowy evenings huddled around the kitchen table with my family, the rich fragrance of garlic and cheese filling the air. My mom always made this hearty soup to warm us up after a long day of winter play. Each spoonful was as comforting as a cozy hug, and it became a tradition we looked forward to each season. This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a taste of nostalgia and family togetherness. The combination of creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar, and fragrant herbs creates a delightful dish that satisfies both hunger and the soul.

If you’re craving something warm, creamy, and absolutely delicious, this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is for you. It’s easy to whip up and packed with flavor. Perfect for cozy dinners or to impress guests, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This potato soup is rich, creamy, and packed with savory flavors. It’s super simple, making it perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks. With the versatility to adapt for vegetarians or meat-lovers alike, everyone will find something to love in this bowl of comfort. Plus, who can resist the aroma of garlic and cheddar wafting through the house?

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer soup)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled (optional for a non-vegetarian version)
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
• Sour cream (optional, for serving)

Directions:

Prepare the Potatoes:
Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Set aside.

Cook the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Simmer the Soup:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Blend the Soup (Optional for Smooth Texture):
For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth while leaving some potato chunks for texture. Alternatively, carefully transfer about half of the soup into a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step and leave it as is.

Add Dairy and Cheese:
Stir in the milk (or cream) and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy. Season with dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Garnish and Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh parsley or chives. Optionally, add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Tips to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• For a lighter soup, substitute half of the cream with vegetable broth.
• Customize the herbs to your liking; fresh herbs always give an extra burst of flavor.
• Use a mix of cheeses for a unique twist—try adding Gruyère or Monterrey Jack!

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This soup is great on its own but pairs well with crusty bread, a light salad, or even some homemade biscuits. You can also sprinkle additional herbs or a drizzle of olive oil on top for a touch of elegance.

How to Store Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to thin it out as it may thicken in the refrigerator.

Variation

For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes. You can also add vegetables like carrots or broccoli for extra nutrients and flavor.

FAQs About Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup, but it’s best to do so before adding the dairy. Freeze in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure your ingredients are free from gluten cross-contamination.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and leave out the bacon.

How can I make the soup even creamier?
For an extra creamy texture, replace the whole milk with heavy cream or add cream cheese while blending for a rich finish.

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