Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup for Cozy Dinners 🥣🧄🧀
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting and hearty meal perfect for chilly evenings, look no further than this potato soup recipe. Often referred to as cheddar garlic herb soup or creamy potato soup, this dish combines the richness of cheddar cheese, the aromatic essence of garlic and herbs, and the velvety texture of blended potatoes. This hearty potato soup is ideal for cozy dinners that satisfy and warm your soul. Plus, it’s super easy to make using simple ingredients and common kitchen tools.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk for creaminess
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: crispy bacon, chopped chives, extra cheese
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making This Delicious Potato Soup
Prepare the Potatoes and Broth
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into uniform pieces. In a large pot or pressure cooker, combine the potatoes with the broth. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Saute Garlic and Herbs
While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and parsley. Saute until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. For a chunkier texture, you can blend only half and leave some potatoes intact.
Add Creaminess and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream or milk to achieve a silky texture. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Final Touches and Serving
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with toppings like crispy bacon, chopped chives, or additional cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete cozy dinner experience.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid freezing, as the dairy may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture.
5. Serving Suggestions for This Hearty Potato Soup
This creamy potato soup pairs perfectly with a crunchy side salad or crispy breadsticks. For added flavor, sprinkle extra cheddar, chopped herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil on top before serving. You may also enjoy it alongside grilled sandwiches or as a starter for a family dinner. For a rich and satisfying experience, check out this garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes dish.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream and cheese with coconut milk, almond milk, or dairy-free cheese options. The flavor remains rich and satisfying.
How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, this soup takes approximately 40 minutes, making it perfect for quick cozy dinners.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes provide a slightly sweeter flavor that complements the garlic and herbs, creating a delicious variation.
Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, by using vegetable broth and vegetarian cheese, you can make this hearty potato soup vegetarian-friendly.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Perfect for quickly chopping and prepping potatoes and herbs, making your cooking process more efficient.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Ideal if you prefer making the soup in a slow cooker for hands-off cooking.
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures even heating and non-stick performance for your cooking needs.
- JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set: Keep leftovers fresh and stored conveniently.
8. Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of potato soup on a chilly evening. This cheddar garlic herb soup offers a perfect blend of creamy textures, hearty flavors, and aromatic herbs that make it a favorite for cozy dinners. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy this delicious dish anytime you need comforting nourishment. Experiment with toppings and sides to customize your cozy dinner experience, and don’t forget to try variations to keep the recipe exciting!
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Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup for Cozy Dinners
A hearty and creamy potato soup flavored with cheddar cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs, perfect for warming up on cold days.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add diced potatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fold in chopped parsley.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese and herbs if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika.
- Top with crispy bacon bits or chives for added texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 70mg