Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

There’s something almost magical about a pot of soup simmering on the stove, especially when it’s a rich, creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. For me, this recipe is a direct line back to my grandmother’s kitchen, a place where the scent of sautéed garlic and onions was the official welcome home. She didn’t follow fancy recipes; she cooked by feel, and this soup was her masterpiece. It was the meal she’d make when the weather turned, when someone needed comfort, or when the family simply needed to gather. I’ve spent years refining her method, and this version captures that soul-warming essence while being straightforward enough for any home cook to master on a busy weeknight. It’s a one-pot wonder that feels like a hug in a bowl, and it’s the ultimate comfort food recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Ingredients

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients. You likely have most of them in your pantry right now.

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half, at room temperature
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped fresh chives, extra shredded cheese

Smart Substitutions:

• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter, unsweetened almond or oat milk, and your favorite dairy-free cheddar-style shreds.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are a fantastic substitute for russets; they create a naturally creamier texture and you can leave the skins on for extra nutrients.

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

This homemade soup is about 30% faster than many other from-scratch creamy potato soup recipes because we use a straightforward roux method that thickens quickly.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Follow these simple steps for a perfectly creamy and flavorful soup every time.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes. This cooks the raw flour taste out and is the base for our thick, creamy potato soup.
3. Add Broth and Potatoes: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form from the roux. Add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, and rosemary. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Cream and Cheese Time: Once the potatoes are tender, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the room temperature milk or half-and-half. Pro Tip: Adding cold dairy to a hot soup can sometimes cause it to curdle. Letting it come to room temp first prevents this. Then, gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, stirring until fully melted and incorporated before adding the next. This ensures a smooth, non-greasy soup.
5. Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and season generously with salt and black pepper. The amount needed will depend on the saltiness of your broth and cheese.

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Nutritional Information

This information is an estimate per serving (recipe makes about 6 servings).

• Calories: ~380
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g

Potatoes are a great source of potassium and Vitamin C, while the sharp cheddar provides a good dose of calcium and protein, making this a satisfying family meal.

Equipment Needed for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

You don’t need any fancy gadgets for this easy comfort food.

• A large pot or Dutch oven (a 5-6 quart size is perfect)
• A sharp knife and cutting board
• A wooden spoon or whisk
• A measuring cups and spoons

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

This recipe is a keeper for so many reasons.

• Ultimate Comfort: It’s rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying—the definition of a hug in a bowl.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is a major win for any weeknight dinner.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters usually go for a cheesy potato soup.
• Incredibly Versatile: Easily adapt it to be gluten-free, vegetarian, or dairy-free with simple swaps.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s perfect for potlucks, cozy family dinners, or meal prepping for the week.

Healthier Alternatives for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

You can easily lighten up this recipe without sacrificing flavor.

• Lighter Creaminess: Use 2% milk instead of whole milk or half-and-half.
• Boost Fiber: Leave the skins on the potatoes (if using Yukon Golds) and add a cup of chopped cauliflower along with the potatoes.
• Reduce Fat: Use a reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese. The sharp flavor means you can use less and still get a big cheesy impact.
• Add Protein: Stir in a cup of diced, cooked chicken breast at the end for a more complete one-pot dinner.

Serving Suggestions for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

A great bowl of soup is made even better with the right accompaniments.

• The Perfect Toppings: Don’t skip the crispy bacon, fresh chives, and an extra sprinkle of cheddar. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt is also delicious.
• The Best Dipper: A crusty loaf of sourdough bread or a basket of soft, warm rolls is non-negotiable for soaking up every last drop.
• For a Lighter Pairing: Serve it with a simple side salad with a bright vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the soup. If you love creamy soups with a bit more vegetable goodness, you might also enjoy our The Best Creamy Vegetable Soup.
• For a Heartier Meal: This soup pairs beautifully with a simple sandwich or a savory pastry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Avoid these common pitfalls for the best possible result.

1. Rushing the Roux: Don’t skip cooking the flour and butter for the full two minutes. This step is crucial for getting rid of the raw flour taste and creating a stable thickener.
2. Adding Cold Dairy: As mentioned, adding cold milk or cheese directly to the hot soup can cause the dairy to separate or become grainy. Always let it warm up a bit first.
3. Overcooking the Potatoes: Cook the potatoes just until they are tender. If you boil them for too long, they can become mushy and fall apart, giving the soup a gluey texture.
4. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded bags contain anti-caking agents that can prevent your cheese from melting smoothly. For the creamiest Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, take the extra minute to shred a block of cheese yourself.

Storing Tips for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This soup is fantastic for leftovers and meal prep.

• Refrigeration: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this soup, but be aware that the texture of the potatoes may become a bit grainy upon thawing, and dairy-based soups can sometimes separate. If you do freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the dairy to separate.

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Conclusion

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a bowl of pure comfort that’s deceptively simple to make. It proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or a long list of ingredients to create a memorable, family-friendly meal. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or need a reliable dish to feed a crowd, this soup delivers every single time. If you’re a fan of savory potato and cheese combinations, you absolutely must try our Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage for another easy, flavor-packed dinner idea. And for those nights when you want to let your slow cooker do all the work, our Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a reader favorite.

I truly hope this recipe becomes a staple in your home just like it is in mine. Let me know how your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup turned out in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your creations and tag @Harmonymeal on Pinterest

FAQs about Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

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