Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup – Creamy, Cozy & Flavorful
There’s something magical about the first spoonful of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. I still remember walking into my grandmother’s kitchen on chilly fall afternoons, the air thick with the aroma of garlic, butter, and simmering herbs. She would ladle out steaming bowls, topped with melted cheddar and crispy bacon bits, and somehow, the entire day felt warmer. This soup carries that same heartwarming comfort rich, creamy, and layered with flavors that make every bite memorable.
If you love potato soups but crave something elevated with garlic, thyme, rosemary, and sharp cheddar cheese, then this recipe is the perfect addition to your cozy-night dinner rotation.
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until golden. Stir in garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add diced potatoes, broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Use a spoon to mash some of the potatoes against the pot for texture, or blend partially with an immersion blender for a smoother soup.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Do not boil.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives, bacon bits, or extra cheese if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
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Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup isn’t just another soup recipe it’s a hug in a bowl. Here’s why you’ll be making it on repeat:
- Ultra creamy and cheesy – thanks to heavy cream and sharp cheddar.
- Layered with garlic and herbs – thyme and rosemary add depth that makes it taste gourmet.
- Customizable – smooth or chunky, light broth-based or luxuriously thick.
- Crowd-pleaser – kids love the cheesy richness, adults adore the herb blend.
- Season-friendly – cozy for fall and winter, but light enough to serve in spring.
Ingredients (with Substitution Tips)
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the creamiest cheddar garlic herb potato soup at home:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Substitution Tips |
| Russet potatoes | 2 pounds, peeled & diced | Yukon Gold for creamier texture |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 4 cups | Use bone broth for added protein |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Half-and-half for lighter soup |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 1 cup, shredded | White cheddar, Gruyère, or Colby Jack |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | ½ tsp garlic powder (in a pinch) |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped | Leeks or shallots for a milder flavor |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp | Olive oil for dairy-free |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp | Fresh thyme (1 tbsp) |
| Dried rosemary | 1 tsp | Fresh rosemary (1 tbsp) |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
Optional Garnishes: chopped chives, extra shredded cheddar, or bacon bits.
How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Step by Step
Making this soup is easier than you think, and the results are restaurant-worthy.
- Sauté the aromatics – Melt butter in a Dutch oven, add onion, and cook until golden. Stir in garlic until fragrant.
- Simmer the base – Add potatoes, broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer 15–20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Thicken the texture – Mash some potatoes against the pot for a rustic soup, or partially blend with an immersion blender for silky smoothness.
- Make it creamy – Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar until fully melted.
- Taste & adjust – Add more seasoning if needed.
- Serve with flair – Ladle into bowls, topping with fresh chives, crispy bacon, or extra cheese.
How to Serve Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
This soup shines on its own, but the right pairings make it even more comforting:
- Classic style – Top with shredded cheddar and bacon bits.
- Rustic dinner – Serve with crusty garlic bread or warm baguette slices.
- Light lunch – Pair with a crisp green salad with apple cider vinaigrette.
- Seasonal twist – Add roasted corn in summer, or extra rosemary and sage during the holidays for a festive touch.
How to Perfect Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Pro tips to get that restaurant-quality finish every single time:
- Don’t over-blend – A little texture makes the soup more satisfying.
- Freshly grate cheese – Pre-shredded cheddar contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Layer flavors early – Sautéing garlic and onions in butter first creates the depth that makes this soup unforgettable.
- Season gradually – Taste as you go, since cheddar adds natural saltiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple soups can go wrong without these key pointers:
- Boiling after dairy – causes cream and cheese to curdle. Keep it on low heat.
- Skipping potato mashing – without it, your soup will feel thin.
- Using mild cheddar – sharp cheddar adds a punchy depth that makes the soup special.
- Over-salting early – always season lightly until cheese is added.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This recipe makes wonderful leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
| Refrigerator | 3–4 days | Store in airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Freeze before adding cream/cheese for best texture |
| Reheating | Stove on low heat | Add splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip bacon garnish.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use olive oil instead of butter, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How can I make it thicker?
Mash more potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water).
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, diced frozen potatoes work well. Add 5 minutes extra simmering time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, it’s naturally gluten-free since no flour is used.
Conclusion
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the definition of cozy comfort food rich, cheesy, and infused with garlic and herbs that make every spoonful irresistible. It’s a recipe that works for quick weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or even holiday spreads. Save this recipe for your next cozy night in and share it with friends who love creamy, flavor-packed soups.
