Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

There is nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe fits the bill perfectly. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with the bold flavors of garlic, herbs, and smoked paprika, every spoonful feels like a cozy hug. It’s the kind of recipe that turns simple ingredients into a soul-satisfying meal that anyone will love. Whether you’re craving a nourishing lunch or a fulfilling dinner, this soup delivers on taste, texture, and pure satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe starts with ingredients that are straightforward but essential. Each item plays an important role, whether it’s adding depth, creaminess, or that perfect pop of flavor. Together, they build layers that transform humble pantry staples into a showstopper bowl of goodness.

• Russet potatoes (4-5 medium, peeled and cubed): The foundation of the soup, offering creamy texture and body.
• Extra virgin olive oil (1 Tbsp): Adds a subtle, fruity richness and helps sauté the aromatics.
• Unsalted butter (1 Tbsp): Provides velvety smoothness and enhances flavor.
• Red onion (1/2, chopped): Brings sweetness and a gentle bite to balance the soup.
• Garlic cloves (6, minced): Infuses the soup with warming depth and savory aroma.
• On Everything All-Purpose Blend (2 tsps): A seasoning mix that adds savory complexity and subtle herb notes.
• Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Gives a smoky, slightly spicy edge that elevates the overall flavor.
• White cooking wine (2 Tbsps, optional): Introduces brightness and gentle acidity to brighten up the creaminess.
• Organic vegetable stock or broth (4 cups): Acts as the flavorful liquid base for cooking the potatoes tender.
• Organic heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the luscious creaminess that defines this soup’s comforting texture.
• Freshly grated sharp cheddar (1-2 cups): Melts throughout, giving the soup that cheesy, crave-worthy richness.
• Kale (1 cup, chopped, optional): Adds a pop of color and a healthy green boost without overpowering.

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a medium-sized dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, toss in the minced garlic and chopped red onion. Sauté these until they become fragrant and translucent—this only takes about 1-2 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation that makes the soup so irresistible.

Step 2: Season and Add Potatoes

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and On Everything All-Purpose Blend, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Then add the cubed potatoes, tossing them to coat evenly in the aromatic mixture. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring everything to a gentle boil for 1-2 minutes before reducing the heat to low.

Step 3: Simmer Until Tender

Allow the soup to simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. If you like your soup thicker and creamier, letting it simmer an additional 10 minutes so the potatoes start breaking down is a fantastic trick. For chunkier potatoes with a thicker broth, simply add 1-2 tablespoons of flour mixed with water as a thickener at this stage.

Step 4: Add Cream, Cheese, and Greens

Stir in the heavy cream, chopped kale if you’re using it, and white cooking wine. Then add the freshly grated sharp cheddar, stirring frequently until the cheese melts smoothly into the soup. This step transforms the broth into a rich, velvety delight packed with cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

Once the soup reaches perfect creaminess, remove it from heat and ladle it into bowls. For an extra pop of color and freshness, top with chopped parsley or sliced green onions. Serve with warm crusty bread for dipping, and get ready to savor every spoonful.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

The beauty of this soup is that it’s already packed with flavor, but fresh garnishes can add delightful texture and brightness. Think crisp green onions, fresh parsley, or even a sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a few chili flakes can also add a pleasant kick for those who like a little heat.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Crusty bread or garlic breadsticks are perfect for dunking. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, or for a heartier meal, pair with roasted vegetables or a simple grilled cheese sandwich.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the soup in mini bread bowls to impress your guests. Swirling in a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil or a dollop of crème fraîche can add elegance. Layering texture with crispy bacon bits or toasted nuts on top makes each bite exciting and indulgent.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe tastes just as fantastic the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Before storing, allow the soup to cool slightly to avoid condensation that may dilute flavor.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, making it a convenient meal prep option. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. It’s best to avoid freezing the soup with the heavy cream and cheese already mixed in—consider adding fresh cheese during reheating for maximum creaminess. Frozen soup can be kept up to 2 months for best taste.

Reheating

For reheating, gently warm the soup over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and to help the cheese melt evenly. If the soup looks too thick, add a splash of vegetable stock or cream to adjust the consistency. Microwave reheating works too—just stir halfway through for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes in this soup?

Absolutely! While russet potatoes give you that fluffy, creamy texture, Yukon potatoes or even red potatoes can be used. Just keep in mind that firmer potatoes like red might hold their shape more, giving a slightly chunkier soup.

Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?

Yes! Swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and choose a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast to maintain that cheesy flavor without dairy.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Definitely. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes when you add the smoked paprika will give the soup a nice, gentle heat that complements the smokiness and garlic beautifully.

What other herbs work well in this soup?

Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even chives can enhance the herbal flavors in the soup. Feel free to experiment by adding a sprig or two during cooking or as a fresh garnish.

Can I prepare this soup in advance for a party?

You can make this soup a day ahead and reheat it just before serving. It often tastes even better after sitting as the flavors have more time to meld. Just remember to add extra cheese or cream fresh when reheating to keep it luscious.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day. Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor from the cheese, garlic, and herbs, it’s easy to make but incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this soup deserves a spot on your regular rotation. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.

Print