Hearty Cheddar Garlic Potato Soup

Introduction

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

There’s nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as a warm bowl of homemade soup on a chilly day. The Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a creamy, flavorful delight that combines the rich essence of melted cheddar cheese, the fragrant aroma of fresh garlic and herbs, and the filling nature of perfectly cooked potatoes. This recipe is ideal for cozy family dinners or even meal-prepping for the week ahead. Its combination of rich flavors and hearty ingredients will make it a go-to soup for years to come.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Potatoes

4 cups diced potatoes

Chicken broth

3 cups chicken broth

Butter

2 tablespoons butter

Onion

1 medium onion, finely chopped

Garlic

3 cloves garlic, minced

Cheddar cheese

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Heavy cream

1 cup heavy cream

Flour

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Fresh herbs

1 teaspoon of freshly chopped thyme or parsley

Salt

Salt to taste

Black pepper

Black pepper to taste

Green onions

Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time

25 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

Yield

4 servings

Prepare this delicious soup in a matter of minutes, perfect for those bustling evenings or relaxed weekends. Follow the detailed steps, serve fresh, and enjoy a bowl of this hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup that warms you from the inside out! The creamy texture, packed with soft potatoes and the richness of cheddar, combined with aromatic herbs and garlic, makes every spoonful an absolute treat. Don’t forget the optional garnish of green onions for added flavor and color!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Peel and dice a sufficient amount of potatoes to your desired size. Chop onions, and mince garlic. Also, you may chop fresh herbs of your choice, such as parsley and thyme, for added flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave the bacon grease in the pot for added flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the diced onions to the pot with the bacon grease. Sauté them over medium heat until they become translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until aromatic.

Step 4: Add Flour

Sprinkle flour into the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste and create a roux.

Step 5: Add Broth and Potatoes

Slowly pour chicken or vegetable broth into the pot while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Continue cooking until the potatoes are fork-tender, which should take roughly 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Mash the Potatoes

Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. This helps to thicken the soup while still leaving chunks of potatoes intact for texture.

Step 7: Add Milk, Cream, and Cheese

Stir in milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat until the cheese melts completely and the soup becomes creamy. Be careful not to let the soup boil at this stage.

Step 8: Season the Soup

Add salt and pepper to taste. You can also add your chopped herbs (like parsley or thyme). Stir everything thoroughly and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Serve the soup hot in bowls. Garnish with crispy crumbled bacon, additional shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped fresh herbs.

Notes

Note 1: Potato Choices

Russet potatoes work best for this recipe because they break down nicely to create a creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a good choice if you prefer a slightly waxy texture.

Note 2: Cheese Selection

Use freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor and melting quality. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the soup’s consistency.

Note 3: Make It Vegetarian

To make the soup vegetarian, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can use olive oil or butter to sauté the onions and garlic.

Note 4: Blending Option

For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also use a regular blender but be cautious when blending hot liquids.

Note 5: Storing and Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, adding a splash of milk if the soup has thickened.

Note 6: Freezing Tips

This soup can be frozen, but note that the texture might slightly change due to the cream and cheese content. Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
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Cook Techniques

Preparing Vegetables

Start by thoroughly washing and peeling the potatoes. Dice them into small, even pieces for consistent cooking. Chop fresh garlic and herbs finely for maximum flavor infusion.

Cooking the Base

Sauté the garlic with butter in a large soup pot until fragrant, ensuring the heat is low to prevent burning. Gradually add broth to create a flavorful base for the soup.

Simmering for Texture

Add the diced potatoes and let them simmer in the broth. Cook until the potatoes are tender. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom.

Blending for Creaminess

Use an immersion blender to achieve a creamy consistency. If you don’t have one, a standard blender will work; just process the soup in batches.

Incorporating the Cheese

Remove the soup from heat before adding grated cheddar cheese. Mix gently to allow the cheese to melt without clumping.

Adding Herbs

Add fresh herbs to the soup right before serving for the brightest flavor. Stir them in gently to preserve their fresh aroma.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They might vary slightly in texture and creaminess but will still work well.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

You can substitute with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a combination of your favorites for a unique flavor profile.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made up to a day in advance. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.

How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?

To make the soup thicker, you can mash some of the potatoes or add a flour and water mixture. To thin it out, add more broth or milk.

Can I freeze the soup?

This soup can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture might change slightly due to the dairy content. Let the soup cool completely before freezing, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

The Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that is perfect for any season. Its rich and creamy texture paired with the flavors of cheddar, garlic, and fresh herbs makes it a satisfying meal for the whole family. This is a recipe that not only warms the belly but also brings a sense of comfort to the table. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side dish, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Creamy Broccoli and Cheddar Soup

If you love cheese-based soups, this classic broccoli and cheddar soup is a must-try. It brings a perfect mix of wholesome vegetables and creamy cheese.

Garlic Butter Breadsticks

Pair this soup with warm, homemade garlic butter breadsticks for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Rustic Herb Bread

Serve the soup with slices of rustic herb bread for dipping to enhance the flavors of the garlic and herbs.

Bacon-Topped Corn Chowder

For a twist, try a corn chowder with crispy bacon bits; it’s a comforting dish that complements the flavors of the potato soup.

Cheesy Cauliflower Soup

Another cheesy delight, this cauliflower soup is a great alternative for those who enjoy creamy vegetable-based dishes.

Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Try a loaded baked potato salad as a side, featuring ingredients like bacon, sour cream, and cheddar cheese to match the soup’s flavors.

Herbed Croutons

Top your potato soup with toasted herbed croutons for added texture and flavor.

Caramelized Onion Tart

Add a bit of sophistication to your meal by pairing the soup with a caramelized onion tart on the side.

Fresh Garden Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Balance the richness of the soup with a light and zesty garden salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette.

Mediterranean-Style Roasted Vegetables

Serve roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers seasoned with herbs alongside the soup for a healthier combination.