Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Deliciously Cozy and Loaded 🥣🧄🧀🌿

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and cheesy potato soup recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This *cheddar garlic herb potato soup* is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy potatoes, melty cheese, and fragrant herbs to create a deliciously cozy meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this loaded potato soup will surely satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul.

2. Ingredients for the Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional toppings: crispy bacon, chopped green onions, extra shredded cheese

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Perfect Loaded Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the potatoes

Start by peeling and dicing the large russet potatoes into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly and quickly, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture in your *garlic herb potato soup*.

Step 2: Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step enhances the flavor foundation of your cheesy potato soup.

Step 3: Cook the potatoes

Adding the diced potatoes to the pot, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15-20 minutes. For added flavor, sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley.

Step 4: Blend the soup

Once the potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a blender in batches and blend until smooth. This creates the velvety base essential for a traditional loaded potato soup.

Step 5: Add the cheese and cream

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream until the cheese melts completely and the soup is rich and cheesy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. For a more intense garlic flavor, you can add a splash of garlic powder.

Step 6: Serve hot with toppings

Ladle the hot cheesy garlic herb potato soup into bowls. Garnish with crispy bacon, chopped green onions, and extra shredded cheese for a loaded potato experience. For a bright herbal note, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Loaded Potato Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. For best results, add a splash of milk or cream during reheating to restore its creamy texture.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This loaded potato soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve with a slice of festive Christmas bread or a hearty garlic bread.

If you love to explore more comfort food recipes, check out our chocolate croissant breakfast bake for a sweet morning treat!

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Potato Soup Recipe

Can I make this potato soup dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream and cheese with coconut milk or cashew cheese for a dairy-free version. You can also use dairy-free butter to keep the flavor rich.

What are some good substitutions for potatoes?

Sweet potatoes or rutabagas can be used as alternatives, providing a different flavor profile while maintaining the comforting texture of the soup.

How long does it take to prepare this loaded potato soup?

The total prep and cooking time is approximately 40-45 minutes, making it an easy and quick recipe for busy weekdays.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure your cheese and other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Investing in the right kitchen tools can elevate your cooking experience. Consider adding these essentials to your kitchen:

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for crispy bacon toppings or warming bread to serve alongside your soup.

T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – A versatile set that makes cooking and stirring your soup effortless.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – Ideal for preparing crispy toppings or side dishes.
KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer – Useful if you prefer mixing ingredients or making homemade cheese dishes for extra cheesiness.

8. Tips to Enhance Your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Use freshly grated cheese for a melty texture and better flavor.
Adding a dash of smoked paprika can give your soup a subtle smoky depth.
For a gluten-free version, ensure all added ingredients are gluten-free and avoid thickening with flour or cornstarch.

Experiment with different herbs like chives or basil for varied herbal flavors.

9. Conclusion

This potato soup recipe, featuring cheesy goodness, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs, offers a cozy, delicious meal perfect for any season. Its creamy texture and loaded toppings make it a crowd-pleaser, whether enjoyed as a meal on its own or paired with your favorite bread or side dish. Give this *cheddar garlic herb potato soup* a try and indulge in a comforting bowl of pure goodness—deliciously cozy and loaded with flavor!

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Deliciously Cozy and Loaded