I fell in love with this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe the moment I first made it. The rich, warm aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to enjoy every comforting spoonful. The magic of creamy potatoes, garlic, cheddar, and herbs all coming together felt like a little hug in a bowl.
What amazes me most is how simple it is to whip up with everyday ingredients. It’s my go-to meal for chilly nights, perfect when paired with crusty bread or topped with crispy bacon for a touch of indulgence.
Ingredients That Make This Soup Amazing
Get ready to create a soup that’s loaded with rich flavors and perfect textures.
- russet potatoes (4 to 5 medium, peeled and cubed): Ideal because they break down beautifully for a creamy consistency.
- extra virgin olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing with a light, flavorful base.
- unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Adds richness to the soup’s base.
- red onion (½, chopped): Brings a hint of sweetness to the dish.
- garlic cloves (6, minced): These bring the heartwarming garlic flavor we all love.
- On Everything All-Purpose Blend (2 teaspoons): A convenient seasoning mix for a well-rounded flavor.
- smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): A subtle, smoky depth to elevate the soup.
- white cooking wine (2 tablespoons, optional): Adds a touch of brightness and complexity.
- vegetable stock (4 cups): Forms the comforting backbone of the soup.
- heavy cream (1 cup): Creates that smooth, luscious texture.
- sharp cheddar cheese (1 to 2 cups, freshly grated): Melts perfectly for cheesy goodness.
- kale (1 cup, chopped, optional): A nutrient-packed addition for a burst of color and texture.
Note: This recipe makes several generous servings, perfect for a cozy meal or leftovers later.
Tasty Variations to Make This Recipe Your Own
Customizing this potato soup to fit your preferences or dietary needs is easy!
- Go Dairy-Free: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream and dairy-free cheese.
- Amp up the Protein: Add cooked, shredded chicken, crispy bacon, or crumbled sausage.
- Boost the Veggies: Toss in roasted carrots, celery, or sweet potatoes for added health benefits and flavor.
- Add Spice: Sprinkle in cayenne or chili flakes for a kick of heat.
Cooking Time
This hearty soup comes together surprisingly fast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Essential Tools for Simple Cooking
Here’s what you need to bring this recipe to life.
- Dutch oven or pot: For sautéing and simmering everything in one place.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping and cubing veggies.
- Wooden spoon: For smooth stirring without damaging cookware.
- Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes amazing.
How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
Dive into this easy step-by-step method for creating a bowl of creamy, comforting soup.
Start with Aromatics
Heat olive oil and butter in your pot over medium heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and chopped red onion. Sauté them until they turn fragrant and translucent, creating the flavorful base of your soup.
Cook the Potatoes
Add your cubed russet potatoes, smoked paprika, seasoning blend, and vegetable stock to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, allowing the potatoes to become soft and tender.
Create Your Desired Texture
When the potatoes are cooked, decide how creamy you want your soup! Use an immersion blender for a smooth and silky texture. If you prefer it chunky, simply mash the potatoes slightly with a fork or a potato masher. This step is completely up to you.
Add the Creaminess
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, freshly grated sharp cheddar, and white cooking wine (if using). Watch as the cheese melts into the soup, creating a velvety consistency that’s irresistible.
Finish With Kale
If you’re adding kale, stir it in now and allow it to wilt in the pot’s heat. This optional step introduces a lovely burst of color and some added nutrition. Then, remove the soup from heat, ready to serve!
Simple Tips to Perfect This Recipe
These practical tips have made a big difference for me when preparing this soup.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Only freshly grated cheese and high-quality potatoes provide the best flavor.
- Simmer with Patience: Allow the flavors to fully develop while the potatoes cook.
- Adjust as Needed: Taste frequently to fine-tune seasonings to your liking.
How to Plate and Serve the Soup?
Make your hearty potato soup look as good as it tastes with these serving ideas.
Serve the soup in wide, cozy bowls and top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a fragrant garnish. Add a drizzle of olive oil or sprinkle crispy croutons for some crunch. Pair it with warm garlic bread, a fresh salad, or even tortilla chips for a fun twist. The possibilities are endless!
Nutritional Information
This comforting soup offers creamy indulgence plus essential nutrients in each bowl.
- Calories: 292
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 28g
Make Ahead and Store Like a Pro
Enjoy this soup even beyond the first day by following these tips.
- Plan Ahead: Cook it a day early and refrigerate. Warm it slowly on the stove, adding a splash of cream or stock if it thickens.
- Store Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for Later: Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Recipe?
This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a treat for everyone. Here’s why it’s a crowd favorite.
- Rich and Comforting: Velvety potatoes, garlic, and cheese make every bite irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: No complicated techniques, just flavorful results.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Reheats beautifully, saving you time on busy days.
- Customized to Your Taste: Add protein, veggies, or spices to switch things up.
- Loved by All: Creamy and cheesy goodness that appeals to nearly everyone.
This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is everything you could want in a meal – simple, cozy, and bursting with flavor. Give it a try and treat yourself to a bowl of comfort today!
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Main
- 4 to 5 medium russet potatoes peeled and cubed
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ red onion chopped
- 6 garlic cloves minced
Seasoning & Base
- 2 tsp On Everything All-Purpose Blend
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp white cooking wine optional
- 4 cups vegetable stock
Creaminess
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 to 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup kale chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in your pot over medium heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and chopped red onion. Sauté them until they turn fragrant and translucent, creating the flavorful base of your soup.
- Add your cubed russet potatoes, smoked paprika, seasoning blend, and vegetable stock to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, allowing the potatoes to become soft and tender.
- When the potatoes are cooked, decide how creamy you want your soup! Use an immersion blender for a smooth and silky texture. If you prefer it chunky, simply mash the potatoes slightly with a fork or a potato masher. This step is completely up to you.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, freshly grated sharp cheddar, and white cooking wine (if using). Watch as the cheese melts into the soup, creating a velvety consistency that’s irresistible.
- If you’re adding kale, stir it in now and allow it to wilt in the pot’s heat. This optional step introduces a lovely burst of color and some added nutrition. Then, remove the soup from heat, ready to serve!
Notes
- Make It Dairy-Free: Sub heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free cheddar.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or sausage for a heartier meal.
- Spice It Up: A dash of cayenne or red chili flakes gives a lovely kick.
- Meal Prep Tip: Tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.
