Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Description

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is creamy, comforting, and loaded with flavor. Perfect for chilly days, it combines tender potatoes, aromatic herbs, and sharp cheddar cheese in a rich, velvety broth. Easy to make on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, this soup is a family favorite and ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

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Ingredients

For the Soup

• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk or cream
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Cheese

• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan for extra flavor

For Garnish

• Chopped green onions or chives
• Extra shredded cheddar

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Instructions

1. Cook the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (2–3 minutes).

2. Add Potatoes and Broth

1. Stir in flour to coat onions and garlic. Cook 1 minute.
2. Gradually add chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly.
3. Add diced potatoes, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.

3. Add Milk and Cheese

1. Stir in milk or cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
2. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy texture, leaving some potato chunks for heartiness.

4. Serve

• Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with green onions or chives and extra cheddar. Serve hot.

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Tips & Tricks

• Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it may not melt smoothly.
• Creaminess: For a richer soup, add ½ cup cream or sour cream.
• Thickness: Adjust broth or milk for desired consistency.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley can be used instead of dried for brighter flavor.

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Variations

• Bacon Cheddar Potato Soup: Add crispy bacon pieces on top before serving.
• Spicy Soup: Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or paprika to the soup.
• Vegetable Boost: Add carrots, celery, or corn for extra nutrients.
• Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients except cheese in a slow cooker. Cook on low 6–7 hours. Stir in cheese before serving.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, freeze before adding cheese. Thaw and reheat, then stir in cheese for best results.

Q: How can I make it dairy-free?
A: Substitute milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk and use dairy-free cheddar.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• Pair with a simple side salad for a balanced meal.
• Top with extra cheddar, crumbled bacon, or chives for extra flavor.