Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

There’s just something comforting about this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup that will have you wanting another bowl! This creamy, flavorful soup is perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. Its rich blend of cheddar and herbs makes it a standout dish, while its easy preparation ensures it’s suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This soup comes together in under an hour, making it a quick option for busy days.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, herbs, and cheddar creates a deliciously hearty taste that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Options: With simple adjustments, you can easily make it vegan or replace ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need to prepare Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Pot
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Perfect for infusing flavors over time while allowing you to focus on other tasks.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe cutting of potatoes and vegetables.
• Stirring spoon: Essential for mixing ingredients evenly and ensuring a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 4-5 medium organic russet potatoes, peeled + cubed (You can also use Yukon potatoes)
• 1 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 red onion, chopped
• 6 garlic cloves, minced

For Seasoning

• 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 Tbsps white cooking apple vinegar (You can use additional veggie stock instead)

For the Soup

• 4 cups organic vegetable stock/broth
• 1 cup organic heavy cream (See Notes!)
• 1-2 cups freshly-grated Sharp cheddar (See Post for other Cheese options!)
• 1 cup kale, chopped (optional)

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by peeling and cubing your potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves. This will help them cook evenly in the soup.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a pot over medium heat, add the olive oil and unsalted butter. Once melted, add the chopped red onion and sauté until translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cubed potatoes to the pot along with On Everything All-Purpose Blend, smoked paprika, and white cooking apple vinegar. Stir well to combine all ingredients nicely.

Step 4: Add Stock

Pour in the vegetable stock/broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer until potatoes are tender—about 25 minutes.

Step 5: Blend & Finish

Once cooked through, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender for a creamy texture. Stir in heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese until melted. If desired, add chopped kale at this stage.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with additional cheese on top if desired. Enjoy your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup with crusty bread or crackers!

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Serving Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this delightful soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Loaf: The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the rich soup.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, garlic bread adds an extra layer of flavor.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Brightens the dish and adds freshness.
• Chives: Offers a mild onion flavor that pairs beautifully with cheese.

Add Protein Options

• Grilled Chicken: A great addition for those looking to make it heartier.
• Roasted Chickpeas: For a plant-based protein boost, consider crunchy roasted chickpeas.

Serve in a Bread Bowl

• Edible Bowls: Hollow out sourdough loaves for a fun and edible serving option that soaks up the flavors.

How to Perfect Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

To achieve the best results with your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor significantly.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or spices based on your preference.
• Blend for creaminess: For a smoother texture, blend part or all of the soup before adding cream.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different types of cheese like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your soup can elevate the meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens balances the richness of the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil bring color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Cheese Toasts: Topped with melted cheese, these are perfect for dipping into the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with quinoa and beans, they make a hearty side that complements the soup’s flavors.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair well with the savory notes of the soup.
6. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and crispy, they add a refreshing crunch alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• When making bold choices in ingredients, ensure you don’t substitute key flavors that define the soup. Stick to the suggested herbs and spices for authentic taste.
• Don’t forget the bold importance of timing. Cooking the potatoes too long can make them mushy, while not cooking them enough will leave them hard.
• Avoid using bold low-quality cheese. For the best results, choose a sharp cheddar that melts well and adds rich flavor to your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.
• Be careful with bold liquid ratios. Adding too much broth can dilute the soup’s flavor; measure carefully for the perfect consistency.
• Remember to check for bold seasoning balance. Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust salt and pepper accordingly to enhance flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup so comforting?
This soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with garlic flavor, making it a perfect cozy meal for chilly days.

Can I make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream and use vegetable broth.

How do I customize my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses!

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Russet or Yukon gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture when cooked.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup stores well and tastes even better after resting, making it a great make-ahead dish.

Final Thoughts

The Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various herbs or vegetables based on your preference. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite comfort food in your household!