Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

There is nothing quite like a warm, satisfying bowl of homemade soup to lift your spirits and fill your home with cozy aromas, and this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is exactly that kind of dish. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with comforting ingredients like sharp cheddar, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs, this soup turns humble potatoes into a soul-soothing culinary experience. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s quick to prepare or a crowd-pleaser to serve guests, this recipe has all the right elements to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients are the magic behind this soup. Each one plays an essential role—providing depth, creaminess, or a burst of freshness that makes this recipe truly special and balanced.

• 4-5 medium organic russet potatoes, peeled + cubed: They offer a creamy base and hearty texture that’s essential for the soup’s soul.
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness while helping to sauté the aromatics.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Elevates flavor and lends a silky mouthfeel.
• ½ red onion, chopped: Brings a mild sweetness and depth to the soup.
• 6 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic’s pungent warmth infuses every spoonful with its irresistible aroma.
• 2 teaspoons On Everything All-Purpose Blend: A unique seasoning that layers in savory, herby goodness.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky note that complements the cheese beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons white cooking wine (or extra vegetable stock): Enhances flavor complexity with a bright, acidic touch.
• 4 cups organic vegetable stock/broth: The savory base that brings all ingredients together.
• 1 cup organic heavy cream: For luxurious creaminess that enriches the soup.
• 1-2 cups freshly-grated sharp cheddar: The star ingredient that makes every bite melty and cheesy.
• 1 cup kale, chopped (optional): Adds color, nutrition, and a bit of earthiness.

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a medium-sized dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, toss in the minced garlic and chopped red onion, sautéing them until they become translucent and release their mouthwatering fragrance—about 1 to 2 minutes. Then sprinkle in the smoked paprika and On Everything All-Purpose Blend, stirring carefully so the spices toast slightly and combine perfectly with the garlic and onion base.

Step 2: Cook the potatoes

Add your peeled and cubed potatoes to the pot and give everything a good stir so the potatoes are coated in that delicious seasoning mixture. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring it all to a gentle boil. After boiling for 1 to 2 minutes, reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through and tender. If you enjoy a thicker, creamier texture, let the potatoes simmer an additional 10 minutes until they start to break down; this natural thickening is pure magic.

Step 3: Add cream, wine, cheese, and kale

Once the potatoes are tender and the soup is nearly perfect, stir in the heavy cream, chopped kale if you’re using it, and the white cooking wine. This combination brings a lovely balance of richness and brightness to the soup. Finally, sprinkle in your freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, stirring frequently until it melts and creates that silky, cheesy consistency that makes this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe so incredibly comforting.

Step 4: Final touches and serve

After removing the soup from heat, portion it out into bowls right away. For an elevated finishing touch, top with freshly chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions. These fresh herbs add both color and a hint of brightness that beautifully contrast the soup’s creamy depths. Serve alongside your favorite rustic bread or crusty rolls for a wholesome meal that hits the spot.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Some simple garnishes can take your soup to the next level. Fresh parsley or green onions add a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note that brightens the creamy richness. For those who love a bit of extra indulgence, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits can bring an irresistible contrast of textures.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread, garlic toast, or buttery croissants that help soak up every last drop. A light side salad of mixed greens dressed with tangy vinaigrette offers a fresh complement, balancing the hearty, cheesy flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls for an impressive presentation. You could also offer a build-your-own topping bar with shredded cheese, chives, cooked bacon, or even crumbled crackers, encouraging your guests to personalize each bowl. Try swirling in a little pesto or hot sauce for an unexpected herbaceous or spicy kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor, making it a perfect make-ahead meal to enjoy later or share with family.

Freezing

If you want to save some for the future, freezing is an excellent option. Keep in mind that cream-based soups like this one may slightly change texture after thawing. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or curdling. If the soup seems too thick after reheating, add a splash of vegetable stock or milk to bring back that beautiful creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! To make the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe vegan, simply substitute the butter with olive oil, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream, and use vegan cheddar cheese or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.

What is the best potato to use for this soup?

Russet potatoes work wonderfully because of their starchy texture which helps thicken the soup naturally. Yukon Gold can also be used for a creamier, buttery flavor and softer texture.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Start by sautéing the onions and garlic, then add all ingredients except the cheese and cream to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Stir in cream and cheese near the end until melted and creamy.

How can I thicken the soup if I prefer chunkier potatoes?

If you like your potatoes in larger chunks, you can thicken the soup by stirring in 1 to 2 tablespoons of flour mixed with water near the end of cooking. This will give you a lovely velvety texture without breaking down the potatoes.

What kind of cheese works best for this soup?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice for richness and tang, but you can get creative with Gruyère, aged white cheddar, or even a smoky fontina for different flavor profiles while keeping the soup indulgently cheesy.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is the kind of comforting dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Rich, cheesy, and full of wholesome goodness, it’s perfect for cozy nights or anytime you crave a bowl of pure comfort. I can’t wait for you to whip it up and make it your own—dive in, savor every spoonful, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of this timeless soup.

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