Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup – Creamy, Savory & Comforting

What Is Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a rich, velvety blend of comfort and flavor. It combines the earthy warmth of Yukon Gold potatoes with the bold tang of sharp cheddar, the mellow sweetness of roasted garlic, and the freshness of herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme. This soup is a go-to for chilly evenings, cozy weekends, or potluck gatherings where comfort food reigns supreme.

Its creamy texture is soothing without being overly heavy, and the layers of flavor—from the savory broth to the aromatic herbs—make each spoonful deeply satisfying. Whether you’re curled up with a blanket or hosting friends, this soup delivers a homemade hug in a bowl. Loved for its balance of richness and freshness, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Why This Soup Stands Out

What sets this soup apart is its masterful balance of textures and flavors. It starts with the hearty base of potato soup, then elevates it with the boldness of sharp cheddar and the aromatic lift of fresh herbs. The partial blending technique ensures a satisfying mix of creamy and chunky—perfect for those who love texture in every bite.

Roasted garlic adds a mellow depth, while the herbs brighten the overall profile. The cheddar cheese, added off heat, melts smoothly without clumping, creating a luscious finish. This thoughtful layering of ingredients and techniques turns a simple soup into a standout dish.

Tip: Always add cheese after removing the soup from heat to maintain a silky texture and prevent separation. This small step makes a big difference in achieving that restaurant-quality consistency at home.

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting soup:

 Base Vegetables

• Yukon Gold potatoes – 2.5 lbs, cubed for creamy texture and buttery flavor
• Yellow onion – 1 large, chopped for sweetness
• Fresh garlic – 5–6 cloves, minced for aromatic depth

 Fat & Thickener

• Unsalted butter – 4 tbsp (or olive oil) to sauté and enrich
• All-purpose flour – ¼ cup to thicken the soup base

 Liquid Base

• Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth – 4 cups for savory depth
• Whole milk – 2 cups for creaminess
• Heavy cream – ½ cup (optional) for extra richness

 Bold Add-ins

• Sharp cheddar cheese – 2 cups, freshly shredded for tangy flavor
• Fresh parsley, chives, thyme – to brighten and balance

 Seasoning

• Salt & black pepper – to taste
• Optional – cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Make Roux Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and create a smooth base.
3. Simmer Potatoes Pour in the broth and add cubed potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Blend Partially Use an immersion blender to blend about half the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, mash a portion of the potatoes manually.
5. Add Dairy & Herbs Stir in milk and optional cream. Add chopped parsley, chives, and thyme. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to infuse flavors.
6. Melt Cheese Remove pot from heat. Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly. Avoid boiling after adding cheese to prevent clumping.
7. Season & Serve Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional cayenne or smoked paprika. Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of cheese.

Texture & Flavor Notes

This soup is luxuriously creamy without feeling heavy. The roasted garlic and fresh herbs add layers of depth and brightness, while the sharp cheddar delivers a tangy richness that lingers pleasantly. The partial blending technique ensures a satisfying contrast between velvety broth and tender potato chunks.

Tip: Always use freshly shredded cheese—it melts more evenly and enhances the soup’s smooth texture. The result is a comforting, flavor-packed bowl that feels both rustic and refined.