Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up your chilly nights with this creamy and flavorful Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Loaded with tender potatoes, rich cheddar cheese, and a blend of aromatic herbs, this comforting soup is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep for the week. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, it's the ultimate dish for any potato lover!
This is the perfect soup for chilly nights, combining the earthiness of potatoes with the richness of cheddar cheese and a medley of herbs.
Why You'll Love It
- Creamy and rich flavor
- Easy to prepare
- Perfect for meal prep
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
Ingredients That Shine
This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup features a harmonious blend of simple yet flavorful ingredients. The foundation of the soup lies in four medium potatoes, which when diced, add a hearty texture that complements the creamy base. By using fresh onion and garlic, you create a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks. These vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the overall nutrition of the dish, making it a wholesome comfort food choice for any night.
The richness of the heavy cream and the sharpness of the cheddar cheese elevate this soup to new heights. It results in a luxuriously creamy texture that soothes the soul and invites seconds. Choosing high-quality cheese can make a significant difference, so look for aged cheddar that packs a punch. Additionally, this dish can easily be made vegetarian by opting for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, ensuring it can cater to a variety of dietary preferences.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Soup
While this potato soup is simple to prepare, a few cooking tips can help you achieve the best results. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until they're just translucent to deepen their flavors before adding the potatoes. The key is not to rush this step; cooking them slowly allows the natural sweetness to emerge, which perfectly balances the dish. Also, make sure to cut the potatoes into smaller, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly and to the desired tenderness.
When blending the soup, using an immersion blender can save time and reduce cleanup. If you prefer using a traditional blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid steam build-up and splattering. Once blended, return the soup to the pot, stir in the heavy cream and cheddar until fully incorporated. This allows the cheese to melt beautifully without clumping, resulting in a silky-smooth texture that is both pleasing to the palate and the eye.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Herbs & Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
How to Make
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes and broth, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
Blend and Add Cheese
Blend the soup until smooth, then stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted.
Season and Serve
Season with thyme, salt, and pepper before serving hot.
Tips
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup delicious, but it also offers several nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a great source of vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium and dietary fiber. These nutrients contribute to heart health and help maintain a healthy digestive system. Coupled with garlic, which boasts immune-boosting properties, this comforting dish combines taste with nutrition, making it suitable for families conscious about their health while still craving something indulgent.
Furthermore, the addition of heavy cream and cheddar cheese provides a source of calcium and protein, making the soup a filling option for lunch or dinner. For those watching their calorie intake, consider using low-fat cream alternatives or reducing the amount of cheese without sacrificing too much on flavor, ensuring you can enjoy this comforting food guilt-free.
Perfect Pairings
To elevate your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup experience, consider serving it with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls. The combination of warm, crusty bread with a rich, creamy soup creates a wonderful contrast that enhances the meal. Additionally, a fresh garden salad can add a refreshing crunch, providing balance to the richness of the soup. A simple vinaigrette can brighten up the flavors and round out your dinner plate.
For a drink pairing, opt for a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the creamy and cheesy elements of the soup. Alternatively, a refreshing sparkling water with a splash of lemon can cleanse the palate and enhance the dining experience. Whatever you choose, this soup is sure to be a hit with family and friends, making it a versatile option for any gathering.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but it may alter the creaminess of the soup.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Warm up your chilly nights with this creamy and flavorful Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Loaded with tender potatoes, rich cheddar cheese, and a blend of aromatic herbs, this comforting soup is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep for the week. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, it's the ultimate dish for any potato lover!
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
Vegetables
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Herbs & Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
Add the diced potatoes and broth, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
Blend the soup until smooth, then stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted.
Season with thyme, salt, and pepper before serving hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g