Chilly evenings call for something warm and fulfilling, and that’s exactly what this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup delivers. The moment you take your first spoonful, you’ll be enveloped in a rich, creamy embrace that whispers comfort food with every bite. This recipe not only satisfies your craving for a cozy meal but also comes with the flexibility of a vegan option that everyone can savor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend gathering, its delightful flavors paired with a crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwich create an indulgent experience without a fuss. So, are you ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of warmth and flavor? Let’s dive into how to make this heartwarming soup!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Hearty comfort: This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those cold nights.
Versatile options: Not only is it delicious as a creamy classic, but you can also easily make it vegan—just swap a few ingredients!
Quick preparation: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Irresistible flavor: The rich blend of garlic, herbs, and melted cheddar creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Pair it with a side of Garlic Parmesan Chicken or Broccoli Cheddar Soup for an elevated meal experience!
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Medium Organic Russet Potatoes – The star ingredient that provides the creaminess; Yukon potatoes can be a flavorful substitute.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing; any neutral oil works if needed.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich depth; vegan butter is a great swap for a dairy-free option.
• Red Onion – Brings a touch of sweetness; feel free to use white or yellow onions instead.
• Garlic Cloves – Essential for rich flavor; garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• On Everything All-Purpose Blend – Adds a unique spice blend; you can easily create a homemade version if desired.
• Smoked Paprika – Infuses a smoky flavor; regular paprika can substitute, though it will lack smokiness.
• White Cooking Wine – Enhances the flavor profile; extra vegetable stock is a perfect alternative.
• Organic Vegetable Stock/Broth – The soup’s liquid base; use gluten-free stock if necessary.
For Creaminess
• Organic Heavy Cream – Delivers a velvety texture; full-fat coconut milk works for a vegan version.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds depth and flavor; freshly grated cheese melts best, or use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
For Optional Add-Ins
• Kale (optional) – Boosts nutrition and texture; can be omitted or swapped with spinach if preferred.
This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is not only a delightful comfort food but also an adaptable recipe that everyone can enjoy, especially during those chilly evenings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat, allowing them to melt together until bubbly and fragrant. Add 1 finely chopped red onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the onions become translucent and soft, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Step 2: Add Spices
Stir in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1 tablespoon of your On Everything All-Purpose Blend to the onion and garlic mixture. Allow the spices to bloom for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until you can smell their rich and fragrant essence. This adds depth to your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup and sets a flavorful base.
Step 3: Incorporate the Potatoes
Next, add 4 cups of cubed medium organic Russet potatoes to the pot, stirring to coat them in the flavorful mixture. Pour in 4 cups of organic vegetable stock, and raise the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess
Once the potatoes are cooked through, use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup until it reaches a creamy consistency, leaving some chunks for texture if desired. This creates a wonderful mouthfeel for your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, making it irresistibly creamy and hearty.
Step 5: Mix in Cream and Greens
Stir in 1 cup of organic heavy cream and, if you’d like, 1 cup of chopped kale for added nutrition. Incorporate ½ cup of white cooking wine, stirring until everything is well blended. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, enhancing the flavors while the kale softens.
Step 6: Final Cheese Addition
Remove the pot from the heat and fold in 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely, creating a luxurious and creamy texture in your soup. This final touch ensures your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is loaded with cheesy goodness.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately alongside crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience. Dive into each warm, cheesy spoonful of your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup!
What to Serve with Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Chilly evenings are best complemented by warm, satisfying meals that nourish both body and soul, creating a delightful dining experience.
- Crusty Artisan Bread: Its chewy crust and soft interior make it perfect for dipping, soaking up every delicious bite of the creamy soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooey, melted cheese and crispy bread provide a classic comfort food pairing that elevates your cozy meal.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich potato soup.
- Roasted Vegetable Platter: Seasonal veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts offer caramelized flavors that beautifully complement the hearty soup.
- Savory Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon crumbles sprinkled on top can add a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to each bowl of creamy goodness.
- Crispy Air-Fried Kale Chips: Light and crunchy, these provide a nutritious, flavorful crunch that works perfectly against the soup’s creamy texture.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness and enhancing the meal experience.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp brings the meal to a sweet finish with its buttery topping and spiced fruit filling, a comforting touch after a bowl of soup.
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your soup with these delightful twists to make it your own!
-
Vegan Option: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter, heavy cream with coconut cream, and cheddar with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese for a creamy delight everyone will love.
For a heartwarming vegan dish, the flavors hold up beautifully, and you’ll still enjoy a cozy bowl of goodness. -
Add Protein: Toss in crispy bacon bits or sautéed sausage for a savory depth, enhancing the soup’s heartiness.
This little addition gives an extra boost of flavor that will surely impress your guests or family. -
Sweet Potato Twist: Use sweet potatoes instead of Russets for a slightly sweeter, uniquely delicious version.
Sweet potatoes add a touch of natural sweetness while still keeping that creamy, comforting vibe. -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a delightful heat.
This variation takes the comforting qualities up a notch, making every spoonful exciting and warming. -
Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley while simmering.
These herbs bring a fresh dimension that beautifully complements the creamy base, enriching every bite. -
Texture Boost: Stir in crispy croutons, toasted nuts, or additional greens like spinach for varied textures.
This not only enhances the bite but also makes the soup visually appealing and even more enjoyable. -
Change the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or a spicy pepper jack for an exciting twist.
A different cheese can transform the flavor profile completely, bringing unique notes to your comforting soup.
Looking for more comforting soup options? Enjoy a warm bowl of Potato Bacon Soup or indulge in a creamy Hamburger Potato Soup for a quick and easy meal!
Expert Tips for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
-
Sauté with Care: Properly sauté garlic and onion until fragrant for the best flavor development. Rushing this step can lead to a lackluster taste.
-
Perfect Potato Prep: Use organically grown Russet or Yukon potatoes for creaminess. Cut them into even cubes for consistent cooking; uneven sizes may create a mushy texture.
-
Cheese Timing Matters: Add the freshly grated cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of cooking to ensure it melts smoothly into your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup without clumping.
-
Thickness Adjustment: For a thicker soup, simmer longer after adding the potatoes. If it becomes too thick, simply stir in more vegetable stock to reach your desired consistency.
-
Blend for Texture: If you enjoy chunks in your soup, blend only half of the mixture and stir it back into the pot. This keeps the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup hearty and satisfying.
-
Store Smartly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 2-3 days. For extended storage, freeze in individual portions, making it easy for a cozy meal later!
Storage Tips for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Fridge: Store your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Freezer: To keep the soup for longer, freeze it in individual portions for up to 4-6 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label them with the date for easy tracking.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture.
Reheating: Avoid using the microwave for reheating as it can affect the creamy consistency. Always stir well after heating to ensure even warmth.
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and even cube the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the prepared ingredients in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. For the best flavor, sauté the aromatics (onions and garlic) before serving to bring out their rich essence, then incorporate the pre-chopped potatoes and broth as you normally would. When ready to enjoy, simply simmer everything together and stir in the cream and cheese for a creamy finish that’s just as delicious as if you made it from scratch today!
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for the soup?
Absolutely! For the best creaminess, I recommend medium organic Russet potatoes. You can also use Yukon potatoes if you’re looking for a slightly sweeter flavor. Just ensure they are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes to achieve that perfect texture.
What is the best way to store leftover potato soup?
After you’ve enjoyed your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
Can I freeze the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze your soup in individual portions for up to 4-6 months. Just pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Label them with the date, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop for the best results.
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup ends up thicker than you like, simply stir in additional vegetable stock or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. This will help bring back that lovely creamy texture without compromising flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this recipe?
Yes! This soup contains ingredients like garlic and onions, which can be harmful to pets, so be sure to keep it out of their reach. If you or someone you’re cooking for has allergies, always double-check your ingredient labels, especially with store-bought vegetable broth or heavy cream, as they may contain allergens.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Very much so! Just ensure you use gluten-free vegetable stock and be cautious with any spice blends that may contain gluten. This way, everyone can enjoy your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup!
Creamy Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat in a Dutch oven.
- Add 1 finely chopped red onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1 tablespoon of On Everything All-Purpose Blend.
- Add 4 cups of cubed medium organic Russet potatoes and stir to coat them.
- Pour in 4 cups of organic vegetable stock and bring to a gentle boil before reducing to simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Blend the soup until creamy using an immersion blender, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Stir in 1 cup of organic heavy cream and optionally 1 cup of chopped kale.
- Incorporate ½ cup of white cooking wine and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and fold in 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish if desired, serving immediately with crusty bread or grilled cheese.