Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup for Cozy Comfort Dinners 🥣🧄🧀🥔
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and cheesy potato soup that combines rich flavors with a creamy texture, then this cheddar garlic herb potato soup recipe is perfect for you. It’s a comforting dish that highlights the natural sweetness of potatoes infused with aromatic herbs, garlic, and melted cheese, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners or family gatherings. Learn how to craft this delicious creamy potato broth from scratch with simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free option
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: chopped chives, extra shredded cheese, a sprinkle of paprika
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Classic Potato Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by peeling and dicing the large potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking. Dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves to release their flavors into the soup. Measure out your herbs for later use.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot, stirring to coat them with the aromatic mixture. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, enough to cover the potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the mixture in batches to a blender and puree until smooth, then return to the pot. Be cautious with hot liquids to prevent splashes.
Step 5: Incorporate Cream, Cheese, and Herbs
Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich, velvety texture. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth. Mix in the fresh thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper for layered herb flavor.
Step 6: Final Taste and Adjustments
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference. For a thicker consistency, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens upon cooling, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it before serving.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Cozy Dinner
This cheesy potato soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or mini garlic bread to dip into the creamy broth. For added flavor, sprinkle with chopped chives, extra shredded cheese, or a dash of paprika. You can also serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
6. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics — Perfect for warming or crisping bread sides to complement your soup.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures effortless sautéing and boiling, making soup prep easier.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Great for quick side dishes or grilled cheese sandwiches.
7. FAQs About Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Can I make this potato soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. Use dairy-free shredded cheese or nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
What are some good substitutions for fresh herbs?
If fresh thyme or rosemary isn’t available, you can use dried herbs—use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for each tablespoon of fresh.
How long does it take to prepare this cheesy potato soup?
The entire process takes approximately 40-45 minutes, including prepping, cooking, and blending.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but note that cheese and cream might alter texture slightly upon thawing. It’s best to store in airtight containers and consume within 2-3 months.
8. Conclusion
This creamy garlic herb potato soup is a wonderful way to enjoy comfort food at its finest. The combination of cheesy richness, aromatic herbs, and velvety broth makes it a perfect dish for chilly evenings or when you need that cozy, home-cooked feel. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a hearty bowl of potato soup that family and friends will love — a true classic with a flavorful twist. Experiment with toppings and side dishes to make it a complete comfort meal. Enjoy your culinary creation and warm your soul with every spoonful!
Print
Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup for Cozy Comfort Dinners
A rich and creamy potato soup infused with sharp cheddar, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs, designed to warm you up from the inside out. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or weekend treat.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add diced potatoes, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches and purée until creamy.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until cheese is melted and soup is rich and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives and extra cheese if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sauté onions with garlic before adding potatoes.
- You can substitute plant-based cheese and cream for a vegan version.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Stovetop, Blender
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (roughly 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 75mg