Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup – Quick, Creamy & Delicious

Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is one of those recipes that wraps you up like your favorite cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Imagine creamy, cheesy potatoes mingled with the comforting aroma of garlic and herbs—yes, please! This hearty bowl of goodness comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want comfort food without the fuss.

The rich cheddar melts beautifully into the velvety base, while fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary make every bite taste like homemade love. Whether you’re serving it to your family after a long day or just craving something soul-warming for yourself, this soup delivers that “ahh” feeling in every spoonful. And the best part? It’s simple enough for any home cook to master, but fancy enough to impress anyone lucky enough to be at your dinner table.

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What is Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a creamy, savory, and satisfying bowl of comfort that blends hearty potatoes with cheddar cheese, garlic, and fragrant herbs. Think of it as the best parts of mashed potatoes and cheesy garlic bread—combined and served in a spoon.

This soup is a wonderful choice for those cozy nights when you need something warming and rich but not complicated to make. You only need one pot and about 30 minutes to turn simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish. The butter and olive oil base gives it richness, while the herbs add a balanced, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheddar’s sharpness. It’s the kind of recipe that makes your home smell amazing, feels like a hug in a bowl, and somehow tastes even better reheated the next day.

Reasons to Try Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

There are plenty of reasons this Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup deserves a spot in your weekly rotation. First off, it’s quick—just 30 minutes from chopping board to dinner table. Perfect for those nights when you want homemade but don’t have hours to spend cooking. It’s also incredibly versatile: vegetarian-friendly, kid-approved, and easy to customize. Add bacon or ham for extra protein, or keep it light with vegetable broth for a comforting meat-free meal.

It’s the perfect “bridge recipe” between healthy and indulgent—creamy enough to satisfy, but made from wholesome ingredients. And let’s be honest, when the weather turns cold and the couch is calling, there’s something truly magical about a pot of bubbling, cheesy soup waiting for you. Pair it with crusty bread or a crisp salad and you’ve got dinner perfection. Plus, your house will smell amazing while it cooks.

Ingredients Needed to Make Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried rosemary
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions to Make Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

If you’ve been craving a warm, creamy bowl of comfort, this Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Step by Step guide will walk you through the entire process. Every spoonful delivers cozy, cheesy goodness, and with just one pot and 30 minutes, you’ll have a homemade soup that tastes like it simmered all day. Ready? Let’s get cooking—apron on, soup pot out, and let’s dive in!

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics for the Perfect Flavor Base

Start your Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Step by Step journey by placing a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once melted and shimmering, toss in your diced onion. Let it sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until it turns translucent and releases that sweet, savory aroma that sets the tone for your soup. Don’t rush this step—building that caramelized onion base adds layers of richness. If you’re new to this technique, check out my quick guide on how to sauté vegetables perfectly every time—the same method applies here!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs for an Aromatic Boost

Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika. Cook this mixture for about one minute, stirring constantly so the garlic doesn’t burn. The moment that fragrant cloud of garlic and herbs fills your kitchen—you’ll know you’re on the right track. This Step by Step moment is where your soup gets its heartwarming aroma and depth of flavor. You can always experiment with other herbs too—if you love bold flavors, check out this recipe for Parmesan Herb Roasted Acorn Squash for inspiration on flavor pairings.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth to Build the Soup Base

Now it’s time for the real comfort ingredient: potatoes. Add 4 cups of diced Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes to the pot, followed by 3 cups of broth (chicken or vegetable, depending on your preference). Stir everything well to combine the flavors, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it starts bubbling, lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know the potatoes are ready when they’re fork-tender but not falling apart. This Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Step by Step process gives you that perfectly thick, creamy base without needing to add any flour or thickeners.

Step 4: Blend for the Perfect Creamy Texture

Here’s where the magic happens. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup right in the pot—just enough to create a creamy texture while keeping some potato chunks for that rustic feel. If you don’t have one, no problem! Simply transfer half of the soup to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and pour it back in. Be careful—it’s hot! This Step by Step blending method ensures your soup has the ideal balance of creaminess and hearty texture. For more creamy inspiration, check out this Creamy Dill Pierogi Soup that uses a similar blending trick.

Step 5: Stir in Milk, Cream, and Cheddar for Dreamy Richness

Turn the heat down to low and slowly pour in 1 cup of milk and ½ cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously. The soup will start to take on that luscious, velvety look we all love. Now sprinkle in 2 cups of freshly shredded cheddar cheese (always shred it yourself for the best melt). Stir gently until the cheese melts completely and blends smoothly into the soup. The combination of milk, cream, and cheddar gives this Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Step by Step its signature richness. Want to keep it lighter? Swap in half-and-half or check out my tips in Creamed Potatoes and Peas for healthier creamy swaps.

Step 6: Season, Garnish, and Serve

Finally, taste your soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Ladle it into bowls and top each one with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for freshness. For an extra indulgent touch, garnish with crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, or even homemade croutons. This final Step by Step moment brings all the flavors together—creamy potatoes, melted cheddar, aromatic garlic, and herbs in every bite. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or serve it alongside Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots for a beautifully balanced meal.

Bonus Step: Make It Your Own

The best part of this Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Step by Step recipe is how adaptable it is. Add a handful of spinach for extra greens, stir in a little hot sauce for spice lovers, or toss in leftover roasted vegetables for added texture. If you enjoy playing with flavors, you might also love my Irish Vegetarian Stew—it’s hearty, wholesome, and just as comforting.

By following this Step by Step guide, you’ll have a soup that’s not just easy but absolutely restaurant-worthy. It’s proof that a little garlic, a few herbs, and a touch of cheddar can turn humble potatoes into something truly special.

What to Serve with Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This soup shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread, garlic knots, or a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance its creaminess. If you want to turn it into a full meal, serve it alongside a sandwich—like a gooey grilled cheese or a turkey melt. For a colorful veggie boost, try it with Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots or Roasted Winter Vegetable Soup for a hearty dinner duo. And if you’re planning a soup night lineup, mix things up with Easy Green Pea Soup with Fresh Basil—it’s light, vibrant, and complements this rich soup beautifully.

Key Tips for Making Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

For best results, use Yukon Gold potatoes—they hold their shape but still blend beautifully. Shred your cheddar from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese; it melts smoother and avoids that powdery coating that can dull the flavor. If you prefer a lighter soup, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use low-fat milk. Want to make it meaty? Add cooked bacon or diced ham at the end for a smoky twist. A sprinkle of smoked paprika on top right before serving also adds a lovely touch. Finally, resist the urge to overblend—leaving some potato chunks gives the soup a satisfying texture that keeps it rustic and hearty.

Storage and Reheating Tips Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container, and when ready to reheat, warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up as it reheats—cheese-based soups can thicken in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, though be sure to let it cool completely first.

When thawing, refrigerate overnight and reheat slowly while stirring often. Avoid microwaving on high heat as it can separate the cream. If you want it to taste like you just made it, freshen it up with a handful of shredded cheese and a sprinkle of herbs before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian? Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I make it dairy-free? You can swap out the milk and cream for unsweetened oat milk and add vegan cheese—it’ll still be creamy and delicious.
Can I use other potatoes? Yes, but Yukon Golds or Russets give the best creamy texture.
Can I freeze it? Yes! Just cool it first and thaw gently before reheating.

Final Thoughts

There’s something deeply satisfying about a bowl of Easy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup—it’s comfort, simplicity, and warmth all rolled into one. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend lunch, or meal prep for the week ahead, this soup delivers every time. It’s rich, flavorful, and impossible to resist. For more comforting ideas, check out Easy Chicken and Rice Soup or Potato Leek Soup next—you’ll be set for soup season in the most delicious way.

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