Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup – Cozy, Creamy & Easy Comfort Food Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a bubbling pot of soup on a cool day. This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is rich, creamy, and filled with layers of flavor from sharp cheddar cheese, fresh herbs, and tender potatoes. It’s the kind of recipe that warms both your kitchen and your heart — a true cozy, family-style dish you can enjoy any night of the week.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves)
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh)
• ½ tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: extra shredded cheddar, chopped chives, or crispy bacon bits

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics – In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened (about 4–5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Cook the potatoes – Add the diced potatoes, thyme, parsley, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the potatoes with the buttery herb mixture.
3. Add broth and simmer – Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make it creamy – Stir in milk and heavy cream. For a thicker texture, mash some of the potatoes gently in the pot with a potato masher.
5. Add the cheese – Turn the heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
6. Taste and adjust – Add more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve warm – Ladle into bowls and top with extra cheddar, chives, or bacon bits for extra coziness.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Texture control – For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender before adding the cheese. For a chunkier version, leave the potatoes as they are.
• Storage – Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid curdling the dairy.
• Cheese tip – Use freshly shredded cheddar for the smoothest melt.

Recipe Variations

1. Add protein – Stir in cooked shredded chicken, ham, or crumbled sausage for a heartier meal.
2. Make it lighter – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and low-fat cheddar.
3. Spice it up – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a gentle kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
• Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced dinner.
• Sprinkle crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs on top for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl — creamy, flavorful, and so satisfying on chilly evenings. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or making a batch to enjoy throughout the week, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Grab a spoon, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this cozy classic.