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Did you know that most of Americans consider potato soup their top comfort food choice during cold months? This incredible statistic reveals why our rich, creamy cheddar garlic herb potato soup has become a household favorite. Combining the earthy warmth of potatoes with sharp cheddar cheese, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Whether you’re battling winter chills or simply craving ultimate comfort food, this cheddar garlic herb potato soup will exceed your expectations.

Ingredients List

Gather these carefully selected ingredients to create your perfect bowl of cheddar garlic herb potato soup:

Base Ingredients:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, diced (substitute: Russet potatoes for fluffier texture)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
• 1 cup whole milk (substitute: heavy cream for richer consistency)
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

Aromatics & Seasonings:

• 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced (substitute: 2 tsp garlic powder)
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced
• 1 bay leaf

Foundation:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

Timing

This cheddar garlic herb potato soup requires strategic timing for optimal results:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes

This recipe delivers results nearly some of faster than traditional potato soup methods, thanks to our efficient cooking technique that maintains maximum flavor while reducing overall preparation time.

Step 1: Prepare Your Mise en Place

Start by washing and dicing your potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking throughout your cheddar garlic herb potato soup. Mince your garlic, dice the onion, and measure all herbs. Pro tip: Keep potatoes in cold water to prevent browning while you prep other ingredients.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Foundation

Heat butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This aromatic base creates the backbone of your soup’s incredible flavor profile.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Sprinkle flour over the onion-garlic mixture, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. This creates a blonde roux that will thicken your soup naturally without any lumps. The flour should smell nutty and toasted when ready.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Potatoes

Gradually whisk in chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add diced potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Incorporate Dairy and Cheese

Remove bay leaf and reduce heat to low. Slowly stir in milk and softened cream cheese until completely smooth. Gradually add grated cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and incorporated.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Texture

Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. For a partially smooth texture, use an immersion blender to blend about one-third of the soup, leaving chunky potato pieces for texture contrast.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (serves 6), this cheddar garlic herb potato soup provides:

• Calories: 385
• Protein: 16g (a significant portion of dv)
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: 285mg (nearly some of dv)
• Vitamin C: 18mg (nearly some of dv)
• Potassium: 720mg

This recipe provides excellent sources of protein, calcium, and vitamin C, making it both indulgent and nutritionally beneficial.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Transform your cheddar garlic herb potato soup into a lighter version with these smart substitutions:

Dairy Modifications:

• Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt mixed with a splash of milk
• Use reduced-fat sharp cheddar (maintains flavor while cutting calories by a significant portion)
• Substitute cauliflower for half the potatoes to reduce carbohydrates

Protein Boosters:

• Add cooked white beans for extra fiber and plant-based protein
• Incorporate shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier meal
• Stir in silken tofu for creamy texture without dairy

Vegetable Enhancements:

• Include diced carrots and celery for added nutrients
• Mix in chopped kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your cheddar garlic herb potato soup experience with these creative serving ideas:

Bread Pairings:

• Crusty sourdough bread with herb butter
• Warm dinner rolls with garlic and rosemary
• Grilled cheese sandwiches made with sharp cheddar

Toppings Bar:

• Crispy bacon bits and extra fresh chives
• Sour cream dollops with paprika sprinkle
• Toasted pumpkin seeds for delightful crunch

Complete Meal Ideas:

• Serve alongside a crisp Caesar salad
• Pair with roasted vegetables for a wholesome dinner
• Offer with a selection of artisanal crackers

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Prevent these frequent pitfalls when making cheddar garlic herb potato soup:

Temperature Control: Never add cheese to boiling soup – it causes separation and graininess. Always reduce to low heat before incorporating dairy.

Potato Selection: Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, which don’t break down properly and create an undesirable texture.

Cheese Quality: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always grate fresh cheese for optimal results.

Overcooking: Don’t boil the soup once dairy is added, as this can cause curdling.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Maximize your cheddar garlic herb potato soup’s shelf life with proper storage:

Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. The soup may thicken when chilled – simply add a splash of broth when reheating.

Freezing: Freeze base soup (before adding dairy) for up to 3 months. Thaw completely and add fresh dairy when reheating.

Reheating: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Add additional milk or broth if needed to achieve desired consistency.

Make-Ahead Tips: Prep vegetables up to 2 days in advance and store in refrigerator until ready to cook.

This cheddar garlic herb potato soup represents the perfect marriage of comfort and sophistication. The combination of creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar, and aromatic herbs creates an unforgettable dining experience that satisfies both body and soul. Whether you’re serving family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe guarantees success.

Ready to experience this incredible soup for yourself? Gather your ingredients and start cooking today! Share your results in the comments below and let us know how you customized this recipe to make it your own.

FAQs

Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute coconut milk for regular milk and use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives. The soup will have a slightly different flavor profile but remains delicious.

How can I make my soup thicker?
Blend more of the soup with an immersion blender, or create a slurry with 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with cold water. Stir into the soup and simmer until thickened.

What’s the best way to prevent the soup from curdling?
Always add dairy products over low heat and stir constantly. If your soup does curdle, blend it with an immersion blender to restore smoothness.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Use one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. Add dried herbs earlier in the cooking process to allow their flavors to develop fully.

How do I know when the potatoes are perfectly cooked?
Potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork but not falling apart. This typically takes 20-25 minutes of gentle simmering.