Introduction to Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
There's nothing quite like the aroma of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup wafting through your kitchen after a long day at work. Homemade soups are a young professional's best friend for many reasons. First and foremost, they allow you to control the ingredients, making it easy to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions. Whether you’re tired of takeout or just looking for a cozy meal to recharge, making a pot of soup can be a delightful end to your busy day.
Additionally, homemade soups are a good way to save time and money. With just a handful of ingredients, this hearty soup can be prepped in under 10 minutes and cooked in 35, yielding plenty of servings for lunch or dinner throughout the week. You can whip up a batch for yourself or share with friends, making it perfect for gatherings or those spontaneous weeknight dinners.
Moreover, with its rich flavors of cheddar, garlic, and fresh herbs, this soup is not just filling, but downright satisfying. Want to explore even more heartwarming soup recipes? Check out the Taste of Home's collection for other delicious options!
Ingredients for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Essential ingredients for a comforting soup
When you’re ready to whip up a hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup, the right ingredients truly make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need for that rich, creamy base:
- Potatoes: 4-5 medium organic russet or Yukon potatoes, peeled and cubed for that perfect texture.
- Fat: A tablespoon each of extra virgin olive oil and unsalted butter to sauté your flavors.
- Aromatics: Half a chopped red onion and 6 minced garlic cloves create an irresistible aroma.
- Spices: You’ll want 2 teaspoons of On Everything All-Purpose Blend and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth.
- Broth: 4 cups of organic vegetable stock gives the soup a rich foundation.
- Creaminess: A cup of organic heavy cream (or a vegan alternative) adds that luscious creaminess we crave.
- Cheese: 1-2 cups of freshly grated sharp cheddar will melt in beautifully.
Optional ingredients for a personalized twist
Want to get creative? Here are some optional ingredients that can elevate your soup to the next level:
- Greens: Consider adding 1 cup of chopped kale for a nutritional boost.
- Protein: You might even sprinkle in some cooked turkey bacon or chicken ham for added flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or scallions can provide a fresh garnish and bright flavor.
Feel free to experiment! Perhaps check out this guide on herbs for soups for additional inspiration. Happy cooking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Creating a bowl of hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup is easier than you may think! Follow these straightforward steps to whip up a comforting, delicious soup that’s perfect for cozy evenings.
Gather your ingredients
The first step to culinary success is gathering your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4–5 medium organic russet or Yukon potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ red onion, chopped
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons On Everything All-Purpose Blend (feel free to substitute with homemade)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons white cooking alternative (like vegetable broth)
- 4 cups organic vegetable stock or broth
- 1 cup organic heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a vegan option)
- 1–2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup kale, chopped (optional)
Once you’ve got everything ready, you’re on your way!
Sauté the aromatics
In a medium-sized dutch oven pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. When the butter is melted and sizzling, add in the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. The aroma just makes you feel at home, doesn’t it? Now, sprinkle in the smoked paprika and your seasoning blend, stirring to combine. This step is vital for building layers of flavor in your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup.
Combine potatoes and broth
Next, add the cubed potatoes to the pot and give it a good stir. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a boil for about 1–2 minutes. After that, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes become tender. Some people like their potatoes to almost break down in the soup, which naturally thickens it! If that’s your jam, go for it.
Simmer to perfection
While the soup is simmering, feel free to enjoy the delightful fragrances wafting from your kitchen. This is the perfect time to think about how much you love warm, cozy meals during the fall season! Once the 15-20 minutes are up and your potatoes are tender, it’s time to add the cream and kale, if you’re using it. Keep stirring until everything is well combined.
Add the creamy elements and cheese
Now for the pièce de résistance! Stir in the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy delight. This is where the magic happens—your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup transforms into a rich, delectable meal.
Serve and enjoy!
When everything is well blended, serve your soup hot into bowls. Top with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for that finishing touch, and perhaps a slice of crusty bread on the side. You’ve just made a comforting bowl of goodness that’s sure to warm your soul. Enjoy every spoonful!
Variations of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Vegan option for a plant-based twist
Looking for a way to enjoy a hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup without the dairy? Simply swap out the butter for vegan butter, and use full-fat coconut cream in place of heavy cream. For cheesy flavor, try stirring in nutritional yeast or your favorite dairy-free cheese shreds. This delightful twist maintains all the comforting flavors of the classic soup while being completely plant-based.
Add kale for a burst of color and nutrients
Want to elevate your potato soup even more? Toss in some chopped kale! This vibrant green adds a pop of color and a wealth of nutrients, making your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup not only delicious but also nutritious. Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, offering a guilt-free boost to your meal. Plus, it cooks down nicely, blending seamlessly with the soup's creamy texture.
Experimenting with these variations can transform the classic recipe into something uniquely yours!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Slow Cooker Method for Easy Prep
For those busy days, try making this hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup using a slow cooker. Simply sauté your garlic and onions to enhance the flavor, then combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, except for the cream and cheese. Cook it on low for about 6-8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just stir in the cream and cheese just before serving for that dreamy finish!
How to Achieve the Perfect Thickness
To create the ideal texture for your soup, consider letting your potatoes simmer longer until they're almost falling apart. This natural breakdown helps thicken the broth without added flour. If you prefer a chunkier style, mixing in a tablespoon or two of flour with water can help achieve your desired thickness—both ways yield a comforting, delicious meal.
For more cooking tips, check out The Spruce Eats for insights on soup-making techniques!
Serving Suggestions for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Best accompaniments to elevate your meal
To truly savor every spoonful of your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup, consider pairing it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. You can also sprinkle some crispy turkey bacon or chicken ham on top for a delightful crunch. If you’re looking to add an additional layer of flavor, try a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions. These accompaniments not only enhance the soup’s rich flavors but also create a balanced meal that's comforting and satisfying.
Storage tips for leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 4-6 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for a bit before reheating it on the stove. Remember to stir well to bring back the creamy texture that makes this soup so delightful!
Time Breakdown for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Preparation Time
Getting started with your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup is quick and easy! The prep time is just 10 minutes, which includes peeling and cubing your potatoes and chopping your garlic and onions.
Cooking Time
Once everything is prepped, you'll spend around 35 minutes cooking. This includes sautéing your aromatics and letting the soup simmer until the potatoes are perfectly tender and creamy.
Total Time
In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a deliciously hearty soup ready to be served! Perfect for warming you up on a chilly day or impressing guests at dinner. So, grab your ingredients and let's dive into this comforting recipe!
For more tips on ingredient preparation and cooking techniques, check out this vegetable cooking guide.
Nutritional Facts for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Caloric Content
A satisfying serving of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup contains about 292 calories. This makes it a great choice for a filling yet manageable meal, especially on chilly days when you crave something warm and cozy.
Macronutrient Breakdown
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
If you're interested in how to balance your meals or need tips on healthier substitutions, check out resources like the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health where you can dive deeper into making nutritious choices.
This creamy soup is a hearty yet indulgent dish that doesn't skimp on flavor. Plus, with a few modifications, it can easily cater to vegan diets. Happy cooking!
FAQs about Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you're looking to kick up the heat in your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup, consider adding fresh chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You could also incorporate a teaspoon of cayenne pepper during the cooking process for an extra layer of warmth. For a smoky touch, smoked paprika does wonders while enhancing the soup's flavor profile.
What are some good side dishes to serve?
Pairing sides with your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup can elevate your meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or homemade garlic knots for a delightful crunch. A crisp side salad or roasted vegetables also complements the creaminess of the soup beautifully. If you're in the mood for protein, turkey bacon or chicken ham can be excellent additions.
Can I freeze any leftovers?
Absolutely! Your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup can be frozen for up to 4-6 months. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop for a quick, comforting meal. For additional storage tips, check out resources from the USDA.
Conclusion on Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
In conclusion, this hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bowl. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it's perfect for chilly evenings. Whether you choose to make it in a slow cooker or opt for the vegan version, it’s a delightful dish that warms the soul. Don't forget to check out my other recipes for more wholesome ideas!
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Equipment
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
SOUP
- 4-5 medium organic russet potatoes peeled + cubed
- 1 tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ red onion chopped
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons On Everything All-Purpose Blend See Notes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons white cooking wine You can use additional veggie stock instead
- 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)
Instructions
TO MAKE THE SOUP
- In a medium-sized dutch oven pot over medium high-heat, add the olive oil and butter. Once heated and the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and chopped onions, and sauté until translucent + fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the smoked paprika and On Everything All-Purpose Blend, stirring until combined.
- Add in the cubed potatoes, stir to combine, and add in the vegetable stock. Bring everything to a boil for 1-2 minutes and reduce the heat to low and allow to simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes become tender and cooked through.
- Add in the heavy cream, kale (if using), and white cooking wine followed by the freshly-grated sharp cheddar, stirring frequently until the cheese has melted. Once creamy, remove from heat.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately into prepared bowl(s), top with freshly chopped parsley or green onions (scallion), and with a side of bread, if desired.
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