Golden Comfort: Creamy Cheddar & Herb Potato Soup – A Soul-Satisfying Delight! 🥔🧀🌿

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a warm, hearty bowl of creamy potato soup that combines the richness of sharp cheddar cheese with the fragrant notes of fresh herbs, then this cheddar potato soup recipe is perfect for you. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little culinary hug. This garlic herb potato soup is versatile, filling, and can be customized with your favorite toppings or mix-ins.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Cheddar & Herb Potato Soup

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional garnish: crumbled bacon, chopped chives, additional cheese

3. How to Make Creamy Cheddar & Herb Potato Soup

Preparation of the Ingredients

Begin by peeling and dicing your potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and prepare your herbs for later use.

Cooking the Vegetables

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the diced potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Simmering the Soup

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring that the potatoes are fully submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Blending for Creaminess

For a truly silky texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, carefully transfer the cooked potatoes and broth to a blender and blend until smooth. Return to the pot if using a traditional blender.

Adding the Cheese and Herbs

Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, and thyme. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Tips for Perfect Creamy Potato Soup

For extra richness, add a splash of cream cheese or sour cream.
If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some diced potatoes before blending and add them back in.
Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or chives for varied flavors.

5. Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cheddar potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens upon cooling, stir in a little additional broth or cream to loosen it up.

6. Serving Suggestions for Creamy Cheddar & Herb Potato Soup

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, such as garlic bread, or a fresh side salad. You can also top it with crispy bacon, chopped chives, or extra shredded cheese for added flavor and crunch.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Potato Soup

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use vegan cheese options. Ensure vegetable broth is used instead of chicken broth for a plant-based version.

What are some good substitutions for the cheese?

If you prefer a milder flavor, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheeses. For a sharper taste, aged cheddar works beautifully. You can also leave cheese out for a dairy-free option.

How long does it take to prepare this creamy potato soup?

The total time, including prep and cooking, is approximately 40-45 minutes, making it a quick yet satisfying meal.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

To make your creamy potato soup preparation easier and more efficient, consider using high-quality kitchen tools. For example, the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master makes dicing potatoes quick and uniform, while the KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer can help with chopping herbs or mixing ingredients smoothly. These tools will elevate your soup-making experience and ensure perfectly cooked, flavorful results.

9. Conclusion

This cheddar potato soup is a comforting classic that satisfies every time. With its creamy texture, aromatic herbs, and sharp cheddar cheese, it offers a deliciously rich experience in every spoonful. Whether served as a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner, this garlic herb potato soup is guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy crafting this soul-warming dish and sharing it with family and friends!

Golden Comfort: Creamy Cheddar & Herb Potato Soup – A Soul-Satisfying Delight!