When the weather cools down, nothing soothes the soul quite like a hearty bowl of homemade soup. One recipe that deserves a spot at the top of your comfort-food list is Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Rich, velvety, and packed with flavor, this dish combines the coziness of potatoes with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, the aromatic punch of garlic, and a fragrant mix of fresh herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping ahead for easy weekday meals, or simply craving something warm and comforting, this potato soup delivers big flavor with simple ingredients.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about making the perfect creamy cheddar garlic herb potato soup—from the best potatoes to use, to variations, serving tips, and even how to store leftovers so you can enjoy it all week long.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
There are plenty of potato soup recipes out there, but this one stands out because:
- It’s ultra-creamy: Thanks to a combination of potatoes, cheese, and cream.
- Full of flavor: Garlic and fresh herbs add depth, while sharp cheddar gives it that classic tangy richness.
- Simple ingredients: You probably already have most of them in your pantry.
- Comfort food perfection: It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish with crusty bread or a side salad.
- Customizable: You can easily add bacon, ham, or extra veggies for your own twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required to create this flavorful soup:
- Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet): They break down beautifully, creating a naturally creamy texture.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Use a block of cheddar and grate it yourself—pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves make all the difference in flavor.
- Onion: Adds a sweet, savory base.
- Fresh Herbs: Thyme, parsley, and rosemary give the soup aromatic depth.
- Butter & Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
- All-purpose Flour: Helps thicken the soup.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Forms the flavorful base.
- Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: For that luxurious, velvety finish.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for balance.
- Optional Toppings: Crispy bacon, chives, extra cheese, or croutons.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make the best creamy cheddar garlic herb potato soup:
1. Prepare the Base
In a large pot, melt butter with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 5 minutes). This creates a flavorful base.
2. Add Potatoes and Herbs
Stir in peeled, diced potatoes along with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Build the Soup
Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well to coat. This helps thicken the soup later. Gradually pour in chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Simmer Until Tender
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender (about 20 minutes).
5. Blend for Creaminess
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half and leave some potato pieces whole.
6. Stir in Cream and Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Slowly add heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and silky smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish and Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes—extra cheddar, crispy bacon bits, or fresh chives all work beautifully.
Tips for the Best Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- Use fresh garlic and herbs: They’re the key to flavor depth.
- Don’t skip the blending: Even partially blending creates a creamier texture.
- Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheddar has anti-caking agents that affect melting.
- Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Golds yield a naturally buttery flavor, while Russets break down more for a smoother soup.
- Reheat gently: High heat can cause cheese and cream to separate—warm over low heat instead.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about this soup is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to switch it up:
- Loaded Potato Soup Style: Add crispy bacon, sour cream, and green onions.
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and skip any meat toppings.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in carrots, celery, or corn for more texture.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Protein Boost: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or cubed ham.
What to Serve with Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
This soup is hearty enough on its own, but pairing it with the right side can turn dinner into a complete feast:
- Crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping.
- Fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches for the ultimate comfort food combo.
- Roasted vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
This soup stores wonderfully, making it a great meal prep option.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. (Note: the texture may change slightly because of the dairy.)
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
(Nutrition may vary depending on ingredients and toppings.)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup without cream?
Yes! Substitute with half-and-half, whole milk, or even unsweetened almond milk for a lighter version.
2. Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skins on adds texture and nutrients, though the soup will be smoother if peeled.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Cook potatoes, onions, garlic, herbs, and broth on low for 6–7 hours. Blend, then stir in cheese and cream before serving.
4. What type of cheddar works best?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for bold flavor, but you can also mix in mild cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s simple to make yet impressive enough to serve for family or guests. With its rich, cheesy base, garlic-infused aroma, and herby finish, this recipe transforms basic pantry ingredients into a bowl of pure comfort. Serve it with crusty bread, keep it warm in a slow cooker for gatherings, or freeze it for busy weeknights—it’s a recipe that fits seamlessly into any kitchen.
If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy meal that brings everyone to the table, this soup is it. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it again and again.