Loaded Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup 🥔🧀🌿

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty, and cheesy dish, look no further than this loaded cheddar garlic herb potato soup. This creamy, flavorful soup combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the aromatic punch of garlic and fragrant herbs, all nestled within tender potatoes. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a cozy meal, this cheddar potato soup recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you’re a soup lover or want to explore different variations of potato dishes, this garlic herb potato soup offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that will delight your palate.

2. Ingredients for Loaded Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream or milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Optional toppings: crispy bacon bits, sour cream, extra cheese

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Loaded Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Preparing the Potatoes

Start by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes into uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and create a smooth, creamy texture for your soup.

Sautéing Aromatics

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the dried thyme and rosemary, cooking for another minute to release their flavors.

Cooking the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Blending the Soup

Once the potatoes are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and blend in batches, then return it to the pot. This creates the velvety base for your loaded potato soup.

Adding Cheese and Cream

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. For a richer flavor, feel free to add extra cheese or a splash of milk.

Serving and Garnishing

Pour the hot garlic herb potato soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley, and top with optional crispy bacon, a dollop of sour cream, or extra cheese for added indulgence. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a side salad.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Loaded Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just be sure to reheat thoroughly and give it a good stir before serving.

5. Delicious Serving Suggestions for Cheddar Potato Soup

This hearty loaded cheddar garlic herb potato soup pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh side salad. For a more filling meal, consider adding sautéed vegetables or cooked bacon bits. Want to elevate your presentation? You can sprinkle extra cheese or herbs on top for an inviting look and flavor.

6. Frequently Asked Questions About Cheddar Potato Soup

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond dairy-free cream, and use dairy-free cheese options. This makes the soup suitable for vegan or lactose-intolerant diets.

What are good substitutes for potatoes in this loaded soup?

You can experiment with sweet potatoes or cauliflower to create a similar creamy texture but with different nutritional profiles.

How long does it take to prepare this cheddar potato soup?

The entire process, from chopping to serving, takes approximately 40-45 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal.

Can I add additional toppings?

Absolutely! Crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or even a dash of hot sauce can enhance your loaded cheddar potato soup experience.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for cooking crispy toppings like bacon or reheating leftovers efficiently and evenly.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – This versatile cookware set makes boiling, sautéing, and blending the soup easy and mess-free.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – Great for preparing toppings or sides to complement your soup.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker – Ideal for enjoying a warm coffee alongside your cozy loaded potato soup.
KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange – Allows effortless mixing of ingredients or preparing toppings like whipped cream.

8. Enhance Your Cooking Experience with More Recipes

If you love this cheddar potato soup recipe, you might also enjoy these delicious dishes:

9. Conclusion

This loaded cheddar garlic herb potato soup is an irresistibly comforting dish that combines creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar, aromatic herbs, and garlic in a rich, hearty broth. Perfect for warming up the soul on cold days or serving at family dinners, this recipe is straightforward, customizable, and sure to impress everyone at the table. Feel free to experiment with toppings and sides to make it your own. Enjoy creating this delightful dish and indulge in its comforting flavors!

Loaded Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup