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Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

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A rich, cozy, and flavorful potato soup made with Yukon Gold potatoes, garlic, herbs, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for cold nights and comforting meals.

Ingredients

  • 2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (or 3 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp butter)
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups)
  • 56 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (32 fl oz)
  • 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half (16 fl oz)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, 4 fl oz)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (8 oz)
  • 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 (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • Pinch cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional)
  • Optional Garnish: extra shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped chives or parsley, croutons

Instructions

  1. Peel and dice the potatoes into ½-inch cubes. Rinse in cold water to remove starch.
  2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in the broth, avoiding lumps, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add potatoes, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
  6. Use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup until creamy while leaving chunks. Alternatively, blend half in a regular blender and return to the pot.
  7. Reduce heat to low. Stir in milk, heavy cream (if using), and herbs. Heat gently without boiling.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese gradually until melted and smooth.
  9. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne or smoked paprika (if using). Serve hot with desired toppings.

Notes

  • Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and skipping meat-based garnishes.
  • For a vegan version, use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and olive oil instead of butter.
  • Soup thickens as it cools—reheat gently and add liquid to loosen if needed.
  • Best enjoyed freshly made, but also great for make-ahead meals.

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