In a world where comfort food reigns supreme, few dishes can compete with the warm embrace of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Picture this: a steaming bowl filled with velvety potatoes, fragrant garlic, and sharp cheddar that dances on your taste buds like it just won the culinary lottery. The rich aroma wafts through the air, inviting you to take that first glorious spoonful.
Let me tell you, every time I whip up this delightful concoction, I’m reminded of cozy evenings spent huddled under blankets while snowflakes flutter outside the window. It’s the perfect dish for those chilly nights or when you’re feeling a little under the weather. With each bite, you’ll find yourself enveloped in a creamy hug that warms both your heart and soul.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor and texture
- It looks stunning in a bowl, showcasing its creamy goodness topped with herbs and cheese
- Versatile enough for lunch or dinner, it’s sure to impress at any gathering
Ingredients for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes create a creamy texture; choose firm ones without blemishes for the best results.
- Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves for a robust flavor; roasting them first enhances their sweetness.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheese to ensure maximum flavor; freshly grated melts beautifully into the soup.
- Vegetable Broth: A rich broth adds depth; homemade or store-bought works well—just keep it low-sodium.
- Cream: Heavy cream creates that luscious consistency; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if desired.
For the Seasoning:
- Thyme: Fresh thyme elevates the herb profile; if using dried thyme, reduce the amount as it’s more potent.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds warmth and flavor; adjust according to your spice preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Preparation of Ingredients
Start by peeling and dicing your russet potatoes into uniform cubes; this ensures they cook evenly. As you chop away, enjoy the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables under your knife.
Sautéing Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter until it bubbles slightly. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden brown; this will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Cooking Potatoes
Toss in those diced potatoes along with vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce to simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender—about 15 minutes of bubbling bliss.
Blending for Creaminess
Once cooked, carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth; if you prefer some texture, pulse a few times instead of blending completely.
Cheese and Cream Addition
Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is melted and combined beautifully. Taste test here—this is where you might want to sneak in an extra handful of cheese!
Seasoning to Perfection
Add fresh thyme leaves along with salt and pepper to taste. Let simmer for another few minutes so those flavors mingle like old friends at a reunion.
Serving up Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is not just about filling bowls; it’s about creating memories that last longer than leftovers! Garnish each bowl with additional cheese or fresh herbs for that Instagram-worthy touch before diving headfirst into creamy delight!
You Must Know
- This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is more than just comfort food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
- Easy to customize, it’s the perfect dish for meal prep
- The delightful aromas and creamy texture will make your kitchen feel like a cozy haven
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by peeling and chopping your potatoes, then sauté onions and garlic in butter until fragrant. Add the potatoes and broth, simmer until tender, then blend until smooth. Stir in cheese and herbs for a delicious finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheddar for your favorite cheese, toss in some bacon bits for crunch, or use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Spice it up with a dash of cayenne if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the creamiest Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded
- Don’t skip blending; it creates that velvety texture we crave!
- Lastly, allow the soup to cool before refrigerating to prevent condensation
Sometimes I remember the first time I made this soup for my friends; they swooned over its cheesy goodness and demanded seconds—my kitchen turned into a mini restaurant that night!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
To make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, gather potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, garlic, fresh herbs like thyme and parsley, onion, vegetable broth, cream, and seasonings such as salt and pepper. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich and flavorful soup that warms the soul. Make sure to use quality cheddar for the best taste, and consider adding crispy bacon or croutons for extra texture. This soup is perfect for chilly evenings or as a comforting meal any time of year.
How long does it take to prepare Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
Preparing Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes for chopping and prepping ingredients. Cooking time varies but usually requires around 30 to 40 minutes on the stove. Simmering the potatoes until tender allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The total time from start to finish is generally under an hour, making it an excellent choice for a quick yet satisfying meal. You can easily adjust your cooking time depending on how soft you prefer the potatoes.
Can I make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup ahead of time! In fact, many people find that this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen and develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy consistency. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or when hosting guests since you can focus on other dishes while still serving a delicious soup.
Is Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup suitable for freezing?
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup freezes well if stored properly. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months without losing its flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. If desired, add extra cream or cheese when reheating to enhance its creamy texture. This makes it a fantastic option for those who want a homemade meal ready at any time!
Conclusion for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup:
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup offers a delightful blend of flavors that warms both body and soul. With simple ingredients like potatoes, cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time or frozen for convenience. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to customize with toppings like croutons or crispy bacon for added texture!
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort dish that envelops you in its creamy richness. Featuring velvety russet potatoes, aromatic garlic, and sharp cheddar cheese, this hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking process, you can whip up this delightful soup in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
- Blend the soup with an immersion blender until smooth or leave some texture if desired.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar until melted. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper; simmer for an additional few minutes.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese or herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the soup. - Substitute cheddar with your favorite cheese or add crispy bacon bits for an extra crunch. - To make it vegetarian-friendly, ensure your broth is vegetable-based.
