Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up with this delicious Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, perfect for chilly evenings and cozy gatherings. This rich and velvety soup combines the comforting taste of potatoes with the bold flavors of cheddar cheese, roasted garlic, and fresh herbs. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful starter for any occasion.
This soup is a family favorite, often requested during the colder months. It brings warmth and comfort to the dining table, making it a perfect dish for gatherings.
The Comfort of Potato Soup
Potato soup is a beloved classic that evokes feelings of warmth and coziness. With its creamy texture and hearty flavor, it's no wonder that this dish has become a staple in many households. The combination of tender potatoes and rich broth makes it not just filling, but also incredibly satisfying. Each spoonful offers a delightful taste experience, perfect for chilly evenings when you want something comforting to warm you up.
In this recipe, the addition of cheddar cheese and roasted garlic elevates the humble potato soup to a new level of deliciousness. The creamy base pairs beautifully with the sharpness of the cheese, while the roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or for guests, this soup is sure to impress.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Serve it as a delightful starter at dinner parties, or enjoy it as a quick and wholesome meal on a busy weeknight. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it an appealing choice for both casual and formal gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a luxurious soup that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.
Moreover, it’s an excellent dish for meal prepping. You can easily make a large batch and store leftovers for lunches throughout the week. Simply reheat and enjoy the same comfort and deliciousness in every bowl, saving you time while still satisfying your taste buds.
Dietary Considerations and Customizations
This potato soup recipe is not only delicious but also adaptable to different dietary needs. For those looking to make it vegan, consider substituting the milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. This allows everyone to enjoy a warm bowl of soup, regardless of their dietary preferences.
Additionally, you can customize the soup with various herbs and spices to suit your palate. Experiment with different combinations of fresh herbs like basil or dill, or add a hint of spice with a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika. The beauty of this soup lies in its flexibility, allowing you to tailor it to your liking while still providing that comforting goodness.
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 head of garlic, roasted
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or chives)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all ingredients before starting your soup for a smoother cooking process.
Instructions
Prepare the Garlic
Preheat your oven and roast the head of garlic wrapped in foil for about 30 minutes, or until soft.
Cook the Potatoes
In a pot, combine diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil and simmer until potatoes are tender.
Blend the Soup
Once the potatoes are cooked, add in the roasted garlic and blend until smooth.
Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
Season and Serve
Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Serve hot and enjoy!
Garnish with additional herbs or cheese if desired.
Storing and Reheating
Properly storing your leftover potato soup ensures that it stays fresh and delicious for days to come. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. For freezing, consider portioning it into smaller containers for quick and easy meals later on.
When you're ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is simple. If reheating from the refrigerator, simply transfer to a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For frozen soup, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If the soup thickens during storage, feel free to add a splash of broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal even more hearty, consider pairing this creamy potato soup with crusty bread or homemade rolls. The crusty exterior and soft interior of the bread are perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful soup, creating a satisfying dining experience. You can also add a fresh side salad for a colorful, nutritious complement to the meal.
For an extra gourmet touch, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of chives, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of olive oil before serving. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also provide a burst of flavor that elevates the soup even further.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.
→ Is there a vegetarian version?
Sure! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Warm up with this delicious Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, perfect for chilly evenings and cozy gatherings. This rich and velvety soup combines the comforting taste of potatoes with the bold flavors of cheddar cheese, roasted garlic, and fresh herbs. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful starter for any occasion.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Fresh Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 head of garlic, roasted
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or chives)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven and roast the head of garlic wrapped in foil for about 30 minutes, or until soft.
In a pot, combine diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil and simmer until potatoes are tender.
Once the potatoes are cooked, add in the roasted garlic and blend until smooth.
Stir in milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 10g