Hearty cheddar garlic herb soup has become my absolute favorite comfort food, especially on those chilly evenings when all you crave is warmth and flavor. I’ll never forget the first time I made it; the aroma of sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh herbs filled my kitchen, promising something truly special. That first spoonful was pure bliss – creamy, cheesy, and bursting with savory goodness. This recipe is my go-to for a reason, and I know you’ll adore this version of a classic hearty cheddar garlic herb soup as much as I do. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Soup
Get ready to fall in love with this incredible soup! It’s the ultimate garlicky cheddar herb comfort food that checks all the boxes:
- Incredible Flavor: A rich, creamy broth packed with sharp cheddar, pungent garlic, and fresh herbs.
- Quick Prep: Ready from start to finish in about an hour, making it perfect for weeknights.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have.
- Family Approved: Even picky eaters will devour this cheesy delight.
- Pure Comfort: It’s the definition of garlicky cheddar herb comfort food – cozy and satisfying.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite garnishes.
- Nutritious Too: Packed with potatoes for fiber and protein for a balanced meal.
Ingredients for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Soup
Gather these ingredients for a truly satisfying bowl. The combination of sharp cheddar, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a rich cheddar herb garlic seasoning that’s simply irresistible.
- 2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces for even cooking
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter OR 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter, for sautéing aromatics
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped for a sweet base
- 5-6 cloves garlic, minced to release maximum flavor
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, to thicken the soup into a creamy consistency
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, provides the liquid foundation
- 2 cups whole milk, adds creaminess and richness
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional), for an extra decadent texture
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded, the star of our cheesy soup
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped, for a bright, fresh finish
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped, adding a mild oniony note
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme), for earthy depth
- 1 teaspoon salt, to enhance all the flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, for a touch of warmth
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional), for a hint of heat or smokiness
How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Soup
Making this delicious soup is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to create a comforting and flavorful meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Base Aromatics
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat with your chosen fat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes nice and soft, usually about 5-7 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute or two until it smells wonderfully fragrant.
Step 2: Building the Creamy Soup Base
Sprinkle the flour directly over the softened onions and garlic. Stir it in well and cook for a couple of minutes – this creates a roux that will thicken our soup beautifully. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure to get rid of any lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Cooking the Potatoes and Blending
Now, add your cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir them in, cover the pot, and let them cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. For that signature creamy texture, use an immersion blender to carefully blend about half of the soup, leaving some potato chunks for texture. Knowing how to make hearty cheddar garlic herb soup often comes down to this blending step.
Step 4: Adding Dairy, Herbs, and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Gently stir in the whole milk and heavy cream (if you’re using it) until everything is well combined. Remove the pot from the heat, then gradually stir in the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and the soup is wonderfully smooth. It’s crucial to do this off the heat to prevent the cheese from clumping. This is a key part of how to make hearty cheddar garlic herb soup taste amazing.
Pro Tips for the Best Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Soup
Elevate your soup game with these simple tricks for the ultimate hearty cheddar garlic herb soup experience.
- Always use freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make your soup grainy.
- Don’t boil the soup after adding the cheese, as this can cause it to separate or become oily.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the very end. Potatoes and broth can vary in saltiness.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a touch of Dijon mustard with the cheese.
What’s the secret to perfect creamy soup texture?
The secret lies in the roux and the blending! Making a proper roux with flour and butter creates a stable base, while partially blending the soup with an immersion blender breaks down some potatoes to thicken it naturally, locking in those delicious cheddar garlic herb flavors.
Can I make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base (up to Step 3) a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat the base, then proceed with adding the milk, cream, and cheese.
How do I avoid common mistakes with this soup?
The most common mistake is adding cheese while the soup is boiling, which can cause clumping. Another tip is to not overcook the potatoes before blending, as they can become too mushy. Always stir gently when adding dairy and cheese.
Best Ways to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Soup
This creamy soup is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few complementary sides to create a complete dining experience. Serve it piping hot alongside crusty bread for dipping, or with a light green salad for a refreshing contrast. For a truly satisfying meal, consider this a perfect base for a savory cheddar garlic herb dish, perhaps topped with crumbled bacon and a dollop of sour cream.
Nutrition Facts for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Soup
This comforting bowl of hearty cheddar garlic herb soup is packed with flavor and satisfying ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Soup
Once you’ve enjoyed this delicious bowl of creamy goodness, you’ll be happy to know that storing and reheating this hearty cheddar garlic herb soup is a breeze. After the soup has cooled down slightly, transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, this hearty soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. Avoid boiling, especially if there’s still cheese in the soup, as this can cause it to separate. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first, then proceed with the stovetop reheating method. Reheating this hearty cheddar garlic herb soup is almost as easy as making it!
Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Soup
What is hearty cheddar garlic herb soup?
This soup is a rich and creamy potato-based dish that features the savory combination of sharp cheddar cheese, pungent garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme. It’s designed to be a deeply flavorful and comforting meal, perfect for cooler weather. The “hearty” aspect refers to its filling nature and robust taste, making it a satisfying main course.
Why use cheddar garlic herb flavoring in this soup?
The combination of cheddar, garlic, and herbs provides a complex and irresistible flavor profile. Cheddar offers a sharp, tangy cheesiness, garlic adds a pungent depth, and fresh herbs bring brightness and aromatic notes. Together, they create a truly craveable taste that elevates simple ingredients into a luxurious dish. This blend is key to why use cheddar garlic herb flavoring for ultimate comfort food.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! This soup is very forgiving. You can easily add other vegetables like chopped carrots, celery, or leeks along with the onions in Step 1. Corn or peas can be added during the last 5-10 minutes of potato cooking. These additions can further enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your hearty cheddar garlic herb soup.
How do I make this soup dairy-free or vegan?
To make a dairy-free version, use olive oil instead of butter, vegetable broth, and a dairy-free milk alternative like unsweetened cashew or oat milk. For the cheese, opt for a good quality dairy-free shredded cheddar alternative. Ensure your vegan cheese melts well. This adaptation still captures the essence of a cheesy, garlicky soup.
Variations of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Soup You Can Try
Looking to switch things up or cater to different dietary needs? This versatile soup is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious variations. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch of hearty cheddar garlic herb soup.
- Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Chicken Soup: Add shredded cooked chicken breast during Step 4 when you add the milk and cheese for a protein-packed meal. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken.
- Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Pasta Soup: Stir in cooked pasta, like elbow macaroni or shells, during Step 4. This transforms the soup into a hearty meal reminiscent of a cheesy pasta bake.
- Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding a diced jalapeño with the onions and garlic, or by increasing the pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Smoky Flavor: Swap the sharp cheddar for smoked cheddar, or add a teaspoon of liquid smoke along with the broth for a delightful smoky undertone.
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb: Delicious Comfort Food
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, hearty potato soup featuring the savory combination of cheddar cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs, perfect for a comforting meal on a cool day.
Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter OR 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 5–6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional)
- Optional garnishes: cooked crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheddar, sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh chives or parsley, croutons
Instructions
- Peel and cube potatoes into ½-inch pieces. Rinse under cold water and set aside.
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat with butter or olive oil. Add onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, add the potatoes, stir, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup for creaminess, leaving some potato chunks.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in milk, heavy cream (if using), and fresh herbs. Heat gently.
- Remove from heat and gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Taste and season with salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne or paprika.
- Serve hot with your favorite garnishes.
Notes
- For extra richness, use half-and-half instead of whole milk.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and texture.
- Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This soup can be frozen and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 65mg