Name: Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces (about 6-7 medium potatoes); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter OR 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter; 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups); 5–6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups (32 fl oz / 950 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth; 2 cups (16 fl oz / 475 ml) whole milk or half-and-half; 1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 120 ml) heavy cream (optional but recommended); 2 cups (about 8 oz / 225g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme); 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste); Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional); Cooked crumbled bacon; Extra shredded cheddar cheese; Sour cream or Greek yogurt; More fresh chives or parsley; Croutons

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving an irresistibly creamy, comforting bowl of goodness, this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender Yukon Gold potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and fragrant fresh herbs, this soup delivers layers of flavor with every spoonful. Rich, velvety, and packed with cozy garlic and herbal notes, it’s the perfect dish to warm your soul on any day you want a little culinary hug.

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this soup plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of creamy texture, savory flavor, and fresh brightness. They’re straightforward, wholesome, and easily found in most kitchens, making this recipe a breeze to whip up anytime.

Potatoes: Yukon Golds are ideal for their buttery flavor and creamy texture after cooking.
Butter or Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics beautifully.
Yellow Onion: Provides a sweet, mellow base that deepens the soup’s flavor.
Garlic: Delivers that unmistakable aromatic punch, integral to this recipe’s character.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for thickening the soup to a luscious consistency.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The flavorful backbone that carries all ingredients together.
Whole Milk and Heavy Cream: Adds the creaminess that makes the soup so luxurious.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded for perfect melting and that iconic tangy cheddar taste.
Fresh Parsley, Chives, and Thyme: Bring herbaceous, bright notes that lighten and elevate the soup’s flavor profile.
Salt, Black Pepper, and Cayenne or Smoked Paprika: Seasoning essentials that awaken all the layered flavors.

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes

Start by peeling and chopping your Yukon Gold potatoes into ½-inch cubes for even cooking. Rinse them under cold water to wash away excess starch, which helps keep the texture just right—tender but never gummy.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics to Build Flavor

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt your butter (or olive oil and butter combo) over medium heat. Toss in finely chopped onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Then add minced garlic and stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant—this step releases those mouthwatering aromas critical to the soup’s depth.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes. This forms a roux, which thickens the soup while cooking out the flour’s raw taste, preparing the perfect base for creamy comfort.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer Potatoes

Gradually whisk in your chicken or vegetable broth. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to lift all those lovely browned bits. Stirring continuously prevents lumps, so you get a silky smooth liquid. Then add the rinsed potatoes, bring it back to a simmer, lower heat, cover, and cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Now for that signature texture! You can either use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup right in the pot, leaving some potato chunks for body, or carefully blend half of the soup in batches. This blending step gives you a silken yet hearty consistency that feels like a warm, loving hug in a bowl.

Step 6: Stir in Dairy and Herbs

Lower the heat and slowly pour in whole milk and optional heavy cream, stirring gently. Add fresh parsley, chives, and thyme to infuse the soup with those bright herbal notes. Warm the mixture without boiling, preserving the silky dairy texture.

Step 7: Melt in Cheddar Cheese Off the Heat

Remove the pot from heat completely before adding your shredded sharp cheddar cheese a handful at a time. Stir continuously to melt it slowly without graininess. This approach ensures that creamy, cheesy flavor melds perfectly into every spoonful.

Step 8: Season and Serve Hot

Finish by seasoning the soup with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle warmth. Ladle your soup into bowls and top generously with optional garnishes like crumbled bacon, extra cheese, sour cream, fresh herbs, or crunchy croutons.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishes are your ticket to customizing each bowl and adding texture or extra flavor. Crumbled bacon lends a smoky crunch, while dollops of sour cream bring tang and creaminess. Fresh chives and parsley brighten the presentation, and extra shredded cheddar melts beautifully on top for pure indulgence.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with fresh, crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every last drop. A crisp green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the soup’s richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a simple grilled chicken breast.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the soup in mini bread bowls for a fun, edible container that adds carbs and charm. Layer the soup in clear mugs showcasing the cheese swirls and herb flecks, or serve it family-style in a wide soup tureen that invites everyone to dig in together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Extra soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more satisfying the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the soup for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers. Leave out optional cream if you prefer, as dairy can sometimes separate when frozen. To keep texture nice, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure smooth consistency. Add a splash of milk or broth if it becomes too thick. Avoid boiling to keep the dairy from curdling—warm and creamy is the goal here!

FAQs

Can I use different potatoes for this soup?

Absolutely! While Yukon Gold potatoes provide a creamy texture, Russets or red potatoes will also work. Just note that texture and flavor might vary slightly—Yukon Golds offer the best balance of creaminess and sweetness.

Is there a vegetarian option for the broth?

Yes, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth keeps this recipe vegetarian-friendly without compromising flavor. A good-quality, low-sodium vegetable broth works wonderfully here.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk alternatives such as oat or almond milk. For cheese, try a dairy-free cheddar-style cheese, but the classic flavor and creaminess will be slightly different.

How thick should the soup be?

The perfect Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still ladleable—rich and creamy without being pasty. Adjust thickness by adding broth or milk while cooking or reheating as needed.

Can I prepare this soup ahead for a party?

Definitely! Make the soup a day in advance, store it refrigerated, and reheat gently before serving. It tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld. Just add fresh garnishes right before serving for that vibrant, fresh finish.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is truly a go-to for comfort food lovers everywhere. With its cozy blend of creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar, and fresh herbs, it turns simple ingredients into a spectacularly satisfying meal. I can’t recommend giving this recipe a try enough—once you do, it’s bound to become one of your favorite dishes for chilly nights or anytime you crave a bowl of pure happiness.