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 delightful soup is perfect for cozy nights at home or gatherings with friends. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and aromatic herbs make it a standout dish for any occasion. Plus, with a slow cooker option and vegan modifications, it’s versatile enough to suit everyone’s taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this soup comes together effortlessly.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, herbs, and cheddar creates a robust taste that warms the soul.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or appetizer; it fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the cheese for a personalized touch.
• Ideal for Any Season: Whether it’s chilly outside or you’re craving comfort food, this soup is perfect year-round.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to make your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Perfect for hands-off cooking; it allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Large pot: Ideal for sautéing ingredients and cooking the soup evenly.
• Cutting board & Chef’s knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Soup 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

Seasonings

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

Liquid Ingredients

• 4 cups organic vegetable stock/broth
• 1 cup organic heavy cream (See Notes!)

Final Touches

• 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

Start by peeling and cubing the potatoes. Dice the red onion and mince the garlic cloves. Set aside all prepared vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil and unsalted butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed mixture into your slow cooker. Add in the cubed potatoes, On Everything All-Purpose Blend, smoked paprika, white cooking apple vinegar, vegetable stock/broth, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 6 hours or high for about 3 hours. Alternatively, simmer on the stove until potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Add Cheese & Kale

Once cooked, stir in freshly-grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted. If desired, add chopped kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot! Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Serving Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is about enhancing its rich flavors and providing a comforting experience. Here are some great ways to enjoy this delicious soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. A sourdough or whole grain bread adds texture and complements the flavors beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives. This will add a pop of freshness and elevate the presentation.

With a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a light side salad, such as a mixed greens salad. The crispness of the salad balances the creamy soup well.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top of the soup enhances its richness and adds depth to the flavor profile.

With Cheese Crisps

• Add cheese crisps as a crunchy topping. Simply bake shredded cheese until golden for a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the soup.

Accompanied by Pickles

• Offer pickles or pickled vegetables on the side for a tangy contrast that brightens up each spoonful.

How to Perfect Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Creating the perfect Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh potatoes, garlic, and herbs will enhance the overall flavor and quality of your soup.

• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute some of the heavy cream with additional vegetable stock for a delicious yet lower-calorie option.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for an extra layer of flavor.

• Blend for smoothness: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend part or all of the soup using an immersion blender before adding cheese.

• Add protein: Consider stirring in cooked chicken or turkey for added protein, making it more filling without compromising taste.

• Store properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove for best results, adding a splash more broth if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can create a satisfying meal. Here are some delicious options.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that complements the soup’s flavors; simply toast bread with garlic butter until crispy.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots and Brussels sprouts offer a healthy contrast and added textures.

3. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   These can be filled with rice and beans or quinoa for a hearty side that still feels light next to creamy soup.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon dressing adds brightness to your meal.

5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   A warm grilled cheese sandwich is always inviting; opt for different cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for variety.

6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage and carrots will provide crunchiness that pairs well with creamy soups.

7. Savory Muffins
   Savory muffins made with cheddar and herbs make excellent companions; they are easy to grab and enjoy alongside your soup.

8. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad can offer sweetness and balance after indulging in rich potato soup; choose seasonal fruits for freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a perfect soup every time.

• Skipping the prep: Not peeling and cubing the potatoes properly can lead to uneven cooking. Always cut them into similar-sized pieces for uniform texture.
• Overcooking garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if cooked too long. Add it to the pot just before the liquid ingredients to keep its flavor bright.
• Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning enough can make your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings for a flavorful result.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can affect the overall taste of your soup. Use organic vegetable stock for the best flavor.
• Not blending properly: If you prefer a creamy texture, be sure to blend your soup thoroughly. An immersion blender works great for this purpose.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the soup in an oven-safe dish, and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup that might help you while preparing this delicious dish.

Can I make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup vegan?

Yes! You can substitute organic heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use vegetable stock instead of any non-vegan options.

What type of cheese should I use?

Sharp cheddar is recommended for a robust flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.

How do I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in or add mashed potatoes.

Can I add other vegetables to my potato soup?

Absolutely! Chopped carrots, celery, or even corn can enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or veggies. This recipe is perfect for cozy nights and will surely become a family favorite. Give it a try!