Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

When the weather turns chilly and the leaves start to fall, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of potato soup to soothe the soul. This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs to create a comforting dish that is both satisfying and delectable. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

To make this delicious potato soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

1. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine.
2. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

1. Once the potatoes are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
2. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a traditional blender. Be sure to let it cool slightly to avoid splattering.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

1. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
2. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is heated through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley, if desired.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Potato Soup

• Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar gives this soup a fantastic flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this soup vegan-friendly.
• Herb Variety: Fresh herbs can elevate this soup’s flavor. If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, use them in place of dried for a more vibrant taste.

Conclusion

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is not only warm and comforting but also simple to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a dish that brings people together. Don’t forget to save leftovers—this soup tastes even better the next day! Enjoy every hearty spoonful, and welcome the cozy flavors of fall into your home.