Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe For Hearty Comfort

Name: Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4-5 medium organic russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (or Yukon gold potatoes) These form the hearty base, providing starch that thickens the soup naturally and adds a comforting, earthy flavor.; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil Used for sautéing, it adds a healthy fat that enhances the aroma of garlic and onions while keeping the soup light.; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter This helps in browning the onions and garlic, contributing to a rich, creamy mouthfeel.; ½ red onion, chopped Offers a subtle sweetness and depth, balancing the sharpness of the cheddar and herbs.; 6 garlic cloves, minced Brings a pungent, savory kick that pairs wonderfully with the herbs, making this cheddar garlic herb potato soup truly aromatic.; 2 tablespoons of a homemade blend of sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried parsley This seasoning mix infuses the soup with layers of flavor, ensuring every bite is well-seasoned and herbaceous.; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds a smoky undertone that elevates the overall taste, giving the soup a distinctive edge.; 2 tablespoons white cooking wine (or additional vegetable stock) Provides acidity to brighten the flavors or can be swapped for stock to keep it simple.; 4 cups organic vegetable stock or broth Serves as the liquid base, helping to simmer the potatoes and create a flavorful broth.; 1 cup organic heavy cream (or full-fat coconut cream/milk for vegan option) Makes the soup luxuriously creamy; the vegan alternative keeps it dairy-free without losing richness.; 1-2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese (or dairy-free cheese shreds/nutritional yeast for vegan option) Melts into the soup for that cheesy goodness, with substitutes ensuring it’s adaptable for different diets.; 1 cup chopped kale (optional) Adds a nutritious green element, boosting vitamins and a slight crunch if you want to make it heartier.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

As a home cook, there’s something truly satisfying about whipping up a meal that warms you from the inside out, and this cheddar garlic herb potato soup fits the bill perfectly. It’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy parents or students who need something quick yet comforting. Let me share a few reasons why this soup might just become your new favorite.

Ease of preparation: This cheddar garlic herb potato soup comes together in about 45 minutes total, with just 10 minutes of prep. Using everyday ingredients like potatoes and herbs, it’s straightforward without any fancy tools, which is great for beginners or those juggling tight schedules.
Health benefits: Packed with nutrient-rich organic russet or Yukon gold potatoes, this soup offers vitamins like C and A, along with minerals such as potassium. It’s a hearty option that can be adapted for diet-conscious folks, providing a balance of carbs, fats, and proteins while keeping calories at around 292 per serving, making it a wholesome choice for working professionals or seniors.
Versatility: Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just watching your calories, this soup adapts easily to various needs, like swapping dairy for plant-based alternatives. That flexibility means food enthusiasts and newlyweds can customize it for any occasion, from a quick family dinner to a cozy date night.
Distinctive flavor: The blend of sharp cheddar, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a bold, creamy taste that’s hard to resist. It’s not just any potato soup; it’s a cheddar garlic herb potato soup that stands out with its smoky paprika and aromatic herbs, appealing to travelers looking for comforting home-style flavors.

With these features, it’s easy to see why this cheddar garlic herb potato soup is a go-to recipe. For more potato-based inspiration, check out our loaded baked potato chicken casserole that pairs perfectly with this soup for a full meal.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
2. Essential Ingredients for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
5. Mastering Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
8. Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Essential Ingredients for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious cheddar garlic herb potato soup. Each one plays a role in building the soup’s creamy texture and robust flavors. Below is a detailed list of everything you’ll need, including precise measurements and a quick explanation of their purpose to help you shop and prep with ease.

Main Ingredients

4-5 medium organic russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (or Yukon gold potatoes) – These form the hearty base, providing starch that thickens the soup naturally and adds a comforting, earthy flavor.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – Used for sautéing, it adds a healthy fat that enhances the aroma of garlic and onions while keeping the soup light.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter – This helps in browning the onions and garlic, contributing to a rich, creamy mouthfeel.
½ red onion, chopped – Offers a subtle sweetness and depth, balancing the sharpness of the cheddar and herbs.
6 garlic cloves, minced – Brings a pungent, savory kick that pairs wonderfully with the herbs, making this cheddar garlic herb potato soup truly aromatic.
2 tablespoons of a homemade blend of sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried parsley – This seasoning mix infuses the soup with layers of flavor, ensuring every bite is well-seasoned and herbaceous.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a smoky undertone that elevates the overall taste, giving the soup a distinctive edge.
2 tablespoons white cooking wine (or additional vegetable stock) – Provides acidity to brighten the flavors or can be swapped for stock to keep it simple.
4 cups organic vegetable stock or broth – Serves as the liquid base, helping to simmer the potatoes and create a flavorful broth.
1 cup organic heavy cream (or full-fat coconut cream/milk for vegan option) – Makes the soup luxuriously creamy; the vegan alternative keeps it dairy-free without losing richness.
1-2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese (or dairy-free cheese shreds/nutritional yeast for vegan option) – Melts into the soup for that cheesy goodness, with substitutes ensuring it’s adaptable for different diets.
1 cup chopped kale (optional) – Adds a nutritious green element, boosting vitamins and a slight crunch if you want to make it heartier.

Special Dietary Options

Vegan: Swap the unsalted butter for vegan margarine, use full-fat coconut cream or milk instead of heavy cream, and replace cheddar cheese with dairy-free cheese shreds or nutritional yeast to keep the cheesy flavor intact.
Gluten-free: This cheddar garlic herb potato soup is naturally gluten-free, but double-check your vegetable stock; opt for certified gluten-free versions to avoid any hidden ingredients.
Low-calorie: Reduce the cheese to 1 cup or use low-fat alternatives, and skip the butter or use a lighter oil to cut down on fats while maintaining the soup’s essence.

Using synonyms like ‘cheesy herb potato soup’ or ‘garlic herb potato chowder’ helps highlight how versatile these ingredients are. For more on potato benefits, read about the benefits of potatoes to see why they’re a staple in recipes like this.

How to Prepare the Perfect Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Step-by-Step Guide

Making cheddar garlic herb potato soup is a breeze once you follow these steps. Start by getting your ingredients ready, as this sets the stage for a smooth cooking process. We’ll break it down into easy actions, including tips for adapting to dietary preferences.

First Step: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather and prep all items: Peel and cube 4-5 medium organic russet potatoes, chop ½ red onion, mince 6 garlic cloves, and measure out your herbs and spices. This mise en place makes the process efficient and helps avoid any rush. For vegan adaptations, have substitutes like coconut cream on hand to keep things simple.

Second Step: Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium-sized Dutch oven over medium-high heat, warm 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until they’re translucent and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and 2 tablespoons of your homemade herb blend for that signature flavor. If you’re going dairy-free, use vegan butter here to maintain creaminess.

Third Step: Add Potatoes and Stock

Toss in the cubed potatoes and pour in 4 cups organic vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil for 1-2 minutes, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. For a thicker cheddar garlic herb potato soup, let it simmer an extra 10 minutes or mix in 1-2 tablespoons of flour with water but choose gluten-free flour if needed. This step works well for low-calorie versions by using less oil.

Fourth Step: Incorporate Cream and Cheese

Stir in 1 cup organic heavy cream, 1 cup chopped kale if using, 2 tablespoons white cooking wine, and 1-2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring on low heat until the cheese melts and the soup turns creamy, about 2-3 minutes. For vegan or dairy-free diets, swap the cream and cheese with coconut milk and nutritional yeast to preserve the taste without issues.

Final Step: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the soup from heat and let it sit for a minute before serving. Top with freshly chopped parsley or green onions and pair with bread for a complete meal. This takes about 35 minutes to cook overall, serving around 4 people. Remember, freshly grated cheese melts best, as pre-shredded might not blend as smoothly, enhancing your cheesy herb potato soup experience.

This method ensures a flavorful result, and for another hearty option, try our sweet potato casserole recipe for a complementary side dish.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Swapping ingredients can make your cheddar garlic herb potato soup fit various diets. For protein, use plant-based options like lentils or beans instead of relying on cheese for creaminess, which works for vegan adaptations. These changes might alter the texture slightly, so adjust quantities to 1-2 cups to keep the soup thick; this is ideal for low-calorie needs.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Experiment with veggies like adding leeks or cauliflower in place of potatoes for a twist, which could reduce cooking time by 5-10 minutes. For sauces, try a cornstarch slurry as a thickener instead of flour, perfect for gluten-free versions, and switch seasonings to rosemary for a fresher profile. These garlic herb potato soup variations help accommodate preferences while maintaining the dish’s core appeal.

Mastering Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Advanced Tips and Variations

Pro cooking techniques: Roast potatoes and garlic beforehand for deeper flavors, or use an immersion blender for the perfect texture without chunks.
Flavor variations: Add smoked bacon for non-vegetarians or nutritional yeast for vegans to boost umami.
Presentation tips: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve in bowls for a welcoming look.
Make-ahead options: Prep ingredients ahead and store them for easy weeknight meals.

Troubleshoot by stirring constantly if the soup separates, or add acid like lemon for brightness. For more ideas, check the cheddar cheese nutrition facts to fine-tune your recipe.

How to Store Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your cheddar garlic herb potato soup fresh and tasty. For refrigeration, cool the soup quickly and place it in airtight containers for 2-3 days to maintain quality.

Freezing works well; portion into freezer-safe bags and store for up to 4-6 months, thawing in the fridge overnight to preserve texture.

Reheating should be gentle on the stove, stirring occasionally and adding a bit of stock if needed, aiming for a safe 165°F temperature.

Meal prep involves labeling portions for easy reheating, whether for single servings or family meals, making it convenient for busy schedules.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Can I make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare this soup in a slow cooker. Begin by sautéing the garlic and onions on the stove for better flavor. Then transfer them along with the potatoes, broth, herbs, and seasonings into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese during the last 10-15 minutes and stir until melted and creamy. This method allows the flavors to develop slowly for a rich taste.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping or not melting smoothly in the soup?

For a smooth, creamy cheese texture, always use freshly grated sharp cheddar rather than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that stop it from melting properly. Add cheese towards the end of cooking on low heat and stir gently until fully melted. Avoid boiling the soup after adding cheese, as high heat can cause clumping or a grainy texture.

Is Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup naturally gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as it does not include any flour or gluten-containing thickeners. Just ensure you use a gluten-free vegetable or chicken broth, as some store-bought broths may contain hidden gluten. Potatoes break down during cooking to give the soup a creamy consistency without the need for gluten-based thickeners.

How should I store leftover Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup and how long does it last?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To freeze, place the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags and keep it for up to 4-6 months. Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove. Stir occasionally while reheating to maintain a creamy texture and prevent separation.

Can I make this potato soup vegan without losing flavor?

Yes, you can make a vegan version by swapping butter with vegan margarine or oil, using full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute for the heavy cream, and replacing cheddar cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese shreds. Adding roasted garlic and fresh herbs can help boost the savory depth and maintain the soup’s rich taste even without dairy.

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe for a Hearty Comfort Meal