Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the chilly winds start to blow, I can’t help but think about the warmth and comfort that a hearty soup brings to our dinner table. This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is my go-to recipe for those cozy nights when I crave something delicious and filling. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this soup is not only simple to prepare but also offers both vegan and slow cooker options—making it perfect for any dietary preference. Picture yourself enjoying a steaming bowl on a lazy weekend or serving it on a busy weeknight. The best part? This dish keeps well, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner later in the week. Curious about how to create this cozy masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is This Soup So Comforting? Comforting warmth: This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup envelops you in a creamy embrace, making it the ultimate solace during chilly nights. Flavor-packed goodness: The rich combination of garlic and sharp cheddar creates bold flavors that are sure to satisfy any palate. Versatility at its best: Whether you’re craving a vegan option or looking for a slow cooker recipe, this soup adapts beautifully to fit your needs. Try it alongside a slice of crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese for the perfect pairing! Meal prep friendly: Leftovers store well, allowing you to enjoy this cozy meal multiple times throughout the week without losing that fresh flavor. Don’t forget to check out Potato Soup Comfort for more heartwarming recipes! Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful soup even on the busiest of nights. Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Ingredients For the Soup Base Organic Russet Potatoes – Provides the base and creaminess of the soup; substitute with Yukon potatoes for a different texture. Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and flavor; can be replaced with other cooking oils if desired. Unsalted Butter – Enhances taste and texture; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Red Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; yellow onion can work as an alternative. Garlic Cloves – Essential for bold flavor; add extra garlic for an intense kick. For the Seasoning On Everything All-Purpose Blend – Adds complex seasoning; feel free to make a homemade blend or swap with similar spices. Smoked Paprika – Provides a subtle smokiness; regular paprika is a good substitute, though it lacks the smoked flavor. White Cooking Wine – Enhances flavor; use vegetable broth as a substitute for a non-alcoholic version. For the Creaminess Organic Vegetable Stock/Broth – This is the base liquid of the soup; ensure it’s gluten-free if needed. Organic Heavy Cream – Contributes to the creamy texture; coconut cream/milk can be used for a vegan version. Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds creaminess and flavorful depth; freshly grated cheese melts best. For a vegan option, try nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese. Optional Add-Ins Kale – Adds nutrition and texture; can be replaced with spinach or omitted entirely for a smoother soup. Dive into this comforting recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Step 1: Heat the Base In a medium-sized Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Wait until the butter melts and starts to foam, signaling that it’s ready. This aromatic mixture will form the flavorful base of your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Step 2: Sauté Aromatics Add 1 finely chopped red onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Stir them frequently for about 1-2 minutes until they become translucent and release a fragrant aroma. This step enhances the dish’s depth of flavor, crucial for your comforting soup. Step 3: Introduce Spices and Potatoes Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1 tablespoon of the “On Everything All-Purpose Blend.” Mix well to combine these spices with the sautéed onions and garlic. Then, add 4 cups of peeled and cubed organic russet potatoes, stirring to coat them evenly with the flavors. Step 4: Add Broth and Boil Pour in 6 cups of organic vegetable stock, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat for about 1-2 minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow it to simmer gently. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Step 5: Thicken the Soup For a thicker texture, simmer the soup for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the potatoes to break down slightly. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can also blend a small portion or stir in a tablespoon of flour. This step is key to achieving the creamy consistency of the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Step 6: Creamy Additions Stir in 1 cup of organic heavy cream, 1 cup of chopped kale (if using), and ½ cup of white cooking wine. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the soup becomes rich and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. The kale will add a nice touch of color and nutrition. Step 7: Final Touches Remove the pot from heat and gently fold in 2 cups of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth. This final step elevates your dish, bringing all the comforting flavors together in the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Step 8: Serve and Garnish Ladle the soup into warm bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions, if desired. Serve immediately, preferably alongside crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for an extra cozy meal. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of your delicious Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! What to Serve with Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Imagine the comforting aroma of the soup embracing your kitchen, perfect for a cozy evening gathering with loved ones. Crusty Bread: This classic side complements the soup’s creaminess, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop with a satisfying crunch. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: An effortless, gooey pairing, just perfect for dipping into the velvety soup for a delightful flavor fusion. Side Salad: A fresh green salad, lightly dressed, adds a crisp contrast that brightens every spoonful of the rich potato goodness. Savory Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes bring a lovely caramelized sweetness to balance the soup’s savory notes. Garlic Knots: These buttery, garlicky bites are a fun addition that enhances the flavor theme of the soup while delivering delightful chewiness. Crispy Bacon Bits: For a non-vegan option, sprinkling crispy bacon on top provides a smoky crunch that takes the soup’s flavor to new heights. Sparkling Apple Cider: Effervescent and slightly sweet, this drink mirrors the comforting warmth of the soup while adding a refreshing sparkle. Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm cookies, the perfect combination of textures and flavors, providing a cozy ending to your hearty soup experience. Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Variations Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine and customize this delightful soup to suit your taste buds! Vegan Twist: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegan butter instead of regular butter for a creamy dairy-free version. The flavor stays rich and delicious! Slow Cooker Adaptation: Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours in a slow cooker. This method is perfect for busy days and deepens the flavors! Gluten-Free Friendly: Ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free, and your soup will be perfect for anyone avoiding gluten. It maintains the same comforting essence without compromise. Extra Veggie Boost: Toss in some chopped carrots or celery while sautéing for added nutrition and texture. Your soup will have an exciting crunch! Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for an unexpected heat that balances beautifully with the creamy cheddar. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or a smoked gouda for unique flavor twists. Each cheese brings its own personality to the dish! Sweet Potato Version: Swap out russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness. This rendition complements the savory elements brilliantly. As you savor this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, consider pairing it with a hearty slice of Savory Garlic Butter Roasted Cabbage Steaks or enjoy a classic alongside Melt in Your Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. The possibilities are endless! Expert Tips for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Fresh Cheese Matters: Using freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese is key for a smooth, melty consistency. Pre-packaged shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well. Storage Solutions: Leftovers can be perfectly stored for 2-3 days in the refrigerator or frozen for 4-6 months. Just remember to cool the soup completely before storing! Vegan Adjustments: To transform this recipe into a vegan masterpiece, substitute butter with vegan butter, heavy cream with coconut cream, and sharp cheddar with dairy-free alternatives. Avoid Excess Water: Using frozen potatoes or adding too much liquid can make your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup watery. Stick to the amounts specified for the perfect texture. Spice it Up: If you crave a more intense flavor, don’t hesitate to add extra garlic or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat! Check Broth Labels: Always ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free if that’s a concern for you. It’s a simple step to avoid mistakes in dietary restrictions. Make Ahead Options These Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onions, garlic, and potatoes up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can pre-cook the soup base (steps 1-4) and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop until warm, then add the cream, kale, and cheese (steps 5-8) right before serving for that fresh and creamy taste. This way, you’ll have a cozy meal ready with minimal effort, just as delicious as freshly made! How to Store and Freeze Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Fridge: Store leftover Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 4-6 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. Reheating: Defrost the frozen soup in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Airtight Containers: Always use airtight containers for both fridge and freezer storage to prevent freezer burn and retain the delicious flavors of the soup. Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe FAQs What kind of potatoes are best for this soup? Absolutely! I recommend using organic russet potatoes for their creaminess, but Yukon potatoes can also work well. Just make sure to peel and cube them for an even texture. How should I store leftover Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure to cool the soup completely before sealing to help maintain its freshness. Can I freeze this potato soup? Yes, you can freeze Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! Pour it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 4-6 months. Remember to leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop. What should I do if the soup is too watery? If you find your soup is too watery, don’t worry! You can simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to allow excess liquid to evaporate, or blend a small portion and stir it back in for a thicker consistency. Alternatively, if you want to add more substance, you can incorporate a tablespoon of flour mixed with a bit of broth to thicken it up. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Very! To make this recipe vegan, swap the unsalted butter for vegan butter, replace heavy cream with coconut cream or milk, and use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese instead of sharp cheddar. Always ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free if needed! Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Absolutely! To prepare in a slow cooker, add all the ingredients (except for the cream and cheese) to the slow cooker, stir gently, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cream and cheese until melted and creamy. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! Comfort in a Bowl: Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup offers warmth and comfort in every bowl, perfect for chilly nights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base4 cups Organic Russet Potatoes Peeled and cubed2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Use vegan butter for a dairy-free option1 medium Red Onion Finely chopped3 cloves Garlic MincedFor the Seasoning1 tablespoon On Everything All-Purpose Blend1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika½ cup White Cooking Wine Use vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic versionFor the Creaminess6 cups Organic Vegetable Stock/Broth Ensure it’s gluten-free if needed1 cup Organic Heavy Cream Substitute with coconut cream for vegan option2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Freshly grated for best meltingOptional Add-Ins1 cup Kale Chopped, can be replaced with spinach or omitted Equipment Dutch oven Method Step-by-Step InstructionsHeat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until butter melts and foams.Add 1 finely chopped red onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until translucent.Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1 tablespoon of the 'On Everything All-Purpose Blend.' Mix with onion and garlic. Stir in 4 cups of cubed potatoes.Pour in 6 cups of vegetable stock and bring to a boil for 1-2 minutes. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.Simmer for an additional 10 minutes for a thicker texture, blending a portion if desired.Stir in 1 cup of organic heavy cream, 1 cup of chopped kale, and ½ cup of white cooking wine. Cook until the soup is creamy, about 2-3 minutes.Remove from heat and fold in 2 cups of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted.Serve in warm bowls, garnished with parsley or green onions, ideally alongside crusty bread or grilled cheese. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg NotesLeftovers can be stored for 2-3 days in the refrigerator or frozen for 4-6 months. For vegan adaptations, substitute butter, heavy cream, and cheese accordingly. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
