Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup in 30 Minutes for the Ultimate Cozy Dinner

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food you didn’t know you were craving—until now. This soul-warming bowl of goodness is creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and packed with rich herbaceous flavor that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Whether it’s a rainy day, a cozy dinner night, or you’re just in the mood for something hearty yet easy, this recipe checks all the boxes.

But this isn’t just any soup. It’s a story—my story.

When I first started Cooktune, the vision wasn’t just to share recipes—it was to share my roots, my passion for natural ingredients, and the soulful experiences behind each dish. This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup was one of the very first recipes I perfected when I was still testing recipes out of a tiny kitchen with secondhand cookware and a notebook filled with ideas. I was on a mission: to create dishes that were not only wholesome and satisfying but also versatile and easy for anyone to make.

Inspired by the classic potato soups I grew up with and elevated with a twist of herbs, bold garlic, and a punch of sharp cheddar, this dish has become a staple in my home—and one of the most requested recipes by friends and readers alike. You could say it’s a bowl full of memories, with every spoonful carrying a piece of my journey.

Now, I want to share that bowl with you.

So grab your apron, your best pot, and maybe a chunk of crusty sourdough on the side. Let’s make this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup together—and turn your kitchen into a place where flavor meets story.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

What makes this soup so irresistible? It’s more than just the ingredients—it’s the experience. When you combine hearty organic potatoes, sharp cheddar, and a medley of herbs with aromatic garlic and a creamy base, the result is a layered, velvety flavor explosion that warms you from the inside out.

• Bold, Savory Flavors: The cheddar isn’t shy—it shines. The garlic is aromatic, slightly sweet when sautéed, and adds a richness you won’t get from powdered versions. The herbs? They ground the entire dish in deep, earthy goodness.
• Creamy But Not Overwhelming: Thanks to the balance between heavy cream and broth, this soup delivers the creaminess we all crave without becoming too thick or cloying.
• Customizable Comfort: Whether you prefer chunky potato bites or a smooth texture, this soup adapts. Simmer longer for soft, almost-mashed potatoes, or leave them firmer for a heartier bite.
• Hearty, Healthy-ish, and Satisfying: It’s loaded with vegetables like kale (optional but recommended), and garlic boasts plenty of immune-boosting benefits. And with just the right amount of healthy fats, it’s indulgent but not guilt-laden.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it on Sunday and enjoy warm bowls all week. It reheats like a dream and even tastes better the next day.
• Pairs with Everything: Crusty bread, grilled cheese, a side salad, or even a glass of white wine—it’s versatile and elevated enough to serve to guests or keep just for yourself.

And here’s a fun little bonus: the aroma. Seriously, the moment those onions and garlic hit the butter and olive oil in the pan, you’ll want to bottle that scent and wear it like perfume.

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Ingredients Breakdown: Quality is Key

When it comes to building deep, unforgettable flavor in a dish like Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, your ingredients are everything. While this recipe is beautifully simple, every component plays a role in creating that irresistible blend of creaminess, sharpness, warmth, and comfort.

Let’s go ingredient by ingredient and talk about why each one matters.

Organic Russet vs. Yukon Potatoes

At the heart of this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the humble potato. We recommend using organic russet potatoes, which are starchy, fluffy when cooked, and excellent at soaking up flavors. But Yukon golds? They’re a creamy dream too. Here’s the difference:

Potato Type	Texture	Flavor	Best Use in Soup
Russet	Light, fluffy	Neutral	For thicker, mashed-style soups
Yukon Gold	Creamy, buttery	Rich	For a smoother, silkier soup

Either variety works great in this recipe. Or better yet, mix both for a dynamic duo!

The Fat Duo: Extra Virgin Olive Oil + Unsalted Butter

Using both olive oil and butter may seem like overkill—but it’s a genius move. The olive oil brings richness and healthy fats, while the unsalted butter adds a velvety base flavor that marries perfectly with garlic and herbs. The balance of these two creates the perfect canvas for the soup’s depth of flavor.

Red Onion: Slightly Sweet, Always Bold

While yellow onions are a popular choice for soups, red onions offer a milder sweetness and a beautiful depth that works wonderfully in Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Sautéing them until fragrant unlocks their full potential and infuses the soup with that mouthwatering base flavor we all crave.

Garlic: The Star Herb in the Soup

No exaggeration—garlic is the soul of this dish. We’re not talking about a clove or two. This recipe uses six full cloves of minced garlic. Why? Because when garlic is sautéed in butter and oil, it becomes sweet, aromatic, and richly flavorful.

Garlic doesn’t just add taste—it’s also packed with antioxidants and compounds that boost your immune system. Especially when used fresh and generously, garlic transforms this soup into a powerhouse of flavor and wellness.

The Secret Weapon: On Everything All-Purpose Blend

Now here’s a game-changer. Our custom On Everything All-Purpose Blend is a must for capturing the essence of garlic herb deliciousness. Can’t find it in stores? No problem—make your own using this basic combination:

• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp celery salt

This blend infuses your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup with a fragrant, herbaceous note that elevates it from average to unforgettable.

Smoked Paprika: The Flavor Enhancer

A teaspoon of smoked paprika adds subtle heat and a smoky depth. It doesn’t overpower—it whispers its magic throughout the bowl. Don’t skip it!

White Cooking Wine (Optional but Recommended)

Used to deglaze and add acidity, white cooking wine brings brightness and balance to the creamy base. It also lifts the earthy tones of the herbs. Not a fan of alcohol in your soup? Just replace it with more organic vegetable stock. You’ll still get delicious results.

Organic Vegetable Stock: The Base of It All

Speaking of stock, this is the backbone of the soup. Go for organic if you can. It has a cleaner flavor and no weird additives. This is especially important in a soup like Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, where each element needs to shine.

Heavy Cream: For That Luxurious Finish

Let’s talk about that creamy finish. This recipe calls for organic heavy cream, which brings body and silkiness. If you’re dairy-free, coconut cream or cashew cream are great alternatives—but nothing beats the richness of classic heavy cream for that signature texture.

Sharp Cheddar: The Bold Flavor Hero

Freshly-grated sharp cheddar melts like a dream and delivers the tangy kick that makes this dish unforgettable. Pre-shredded cheeses often have anti-caking agents that don’t melt smoothly—so shred your own if possible.

Want to switch it up? Try a mix of sharp white cheddar, gouda, or even a bit of parmesan for extra umami.

Kale (Optional but Perfect)

Kale is optional, but highly recommended. It adds texture, color, and a nutrition boost. Plus, it holds up beautifully in hot soup without getting soggy like spinach sometimes can.

Cooking Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we’ve got all the ingredients ready to go, it’s time to turn them into the most soul-satisfying Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup you’ve ever tasted. This process is simple, beginner-friendly, and doesn’t require any fancy kitchen tools—just heart, heat, and a big ol’ pot.

Follow this detailed guide to bring the recipe to life in your kitchen.

Step 1: Build the Flavor Foundation

Grab a medium-sized Dutch oven or your favorite soup pot and place it over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Let the butter melt fully and combine with the oil. You’ll know it’s ready when it begins to shimmer slightly and releases a warm, nutty aroma.

Now add in your ½ chopped red onion and 6 cloves of minced garlic. Stir them around with a wooden spoon and let them cook for about 1–2 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the garlic is golden and fragrant.

This is the aromatic base that sets the tone for the entire Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup experience.

Step 2: Add Herbs and Seasoning

Once your onions and garlic are perfectly sautéed, stir in 2 teaspoons of On Everything All-Purpose Blend and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. This is where the herbaceous and smoky notes begin to shine. The paprika will infuse the oil and butter with a rich, reddish hue, and the herbs will release their oils, making the kitchen smell like a five-star bistro.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes

Next, toss in your cubed russet (or Yukon) potatoes—about 4 to 5 medium ones, peeled and cut into even chunks. Stir them around so that they get coated in all the seasoned goodness. You want every potato to soak up that garlicky, buttery, herby base.

Now pour in 4 cups of organic vegetable stock, making sure the potatoes are fully submerged. Stir gently and bring everything to a boil for about 1–2 minutes.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes. The goal here is to let the potatoes soften fully. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork. For a thicker soup, let them simmer a bit longer—up to 30 minutes—until they begin to naturally break down.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a smoother consistency, use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially blend the soup at this point. If you want it chunky, skip this step.

Step 4: Cream It Up

After the potatoes are tender and your kitchen smells like comfort itself, it’s time to take things to the next level. Pour in 1 cup of organic heavy cream, stirring gently to combine.

This is also the moment to stir in 2 tablespoons of white cooking wine, which helps brighten the dish and cut through the richness. If you’re skipping the wine, just add a bit more veggie stock or a squeeze of lemon juice.

If you’re using chopped kale, add 1 cup now. It will wilt beautifully into the soup and bring a pop of color and nutrients.

Step 5: Add the Star of the Show—Cheddar

Finally, sprinkle in 1–2 cups of freshly-grated sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly to ensure it melts smoothly into the soup. You’ll start to see the liquid become glossy, golden, and thick.

Important: Don’t boil the soup at this stage. Just keep it on a low simmer and stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated. Overheating dairy can cause it to curdle or separate, which we definitely don’t want.

Once your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is creamy, thick, and irresistible, remove it from heat.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, scallions, or even extra shredded cheese if you’re feeling fancy. A side of toasted sourdough or a crusty baguette turns this into a full, satisfying meal.

And there you have it—a cozy bowl of homemade Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, made with love and packed with flavor.

Love creamy comfort food? You’ll also enjoy these reader favorites like Cozy Up with Sweet Potato Soup and Cauliflower Crumbles

How to Thicken Soup Naturally or Quickly

There are two effective ways to control the texture of your soup, depending on your mood and timing:

Option 1: Natural Thickening

Letting the potatoes simmer longer—especially uncovered—will allow them to release their starches and break down into the broth. This creates a natural thickness that’s silky but rustic.

Option 2: Quick Thickening

If you’re short on time or prefer chunkier potatoes, mix 1–2 tablespoons of flour with water to form a slurry. Stir this into the hot soup and let it cook for another 3–5 minutes. It’ll thicken without changing the taste or texture much.

Both methods are effective—choose what fits your vibe.

Adapting Herb Potato Soup with Cheddar Garlic to Any Diet

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup’s ability to readily accommodate a range of dietary requirements without compromising flavor is one of its most remarkable features. This soup accepts adjustments like a pro, whether you’re trying to cut back on dairy, go gluten-free, or eat vegetarian.

Here’s how to make this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup your own—no matter what your dietary lifestyle looks like.

Dairy-Free and Vegan-Friendly Options

Believe it or not, you can absolutely enjoy a creamy and flavorful Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup without using traditional dairy products. Let’s break it down:

• Heavy Cream Swap: Use canned coconut cream, unsweetened cashew cream, or even a store-bought plant-based heavy cream alternative. These options mimic the silky richness of cream without the lactose.
• Cheddar Alternative: Choose a dairy-free sharp cheddar-style cheese, preferably one that melts well. Look for vegan cheese shreds made from cashews, coconut oil, or almond milk. Brands that specialize in meltable vegan cheese are your best friend here.
• Butter Substitute: Swap out the unsalted butter for vegan butter or just increase the extra virgin olive oil for a rich, plant-based fat.

With these small changes, your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup becomes a delicious vegan-friendly version that retains its creamy texture and deep herb and garlic flavor.

Gluten-Free Variations

Good news: the basic recipe for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is already gluten-free! But if you plan on thickening the soup quickly, avoid regular flour. Here are a few gluten-free thickening options:

• Arrowroot powder
• Cornstarch slurry
• Gluten-free all-purpose flour

Just mix your thickener of choice with cold water before adding it to the hot soup to avoid clumping.

And don’t forget to pair your bowl of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup with gluten-free bread or crackers if you’re going for a full GF meal.

Keto and Low-Carb Modifications

Potatoes are naturally starchy, but that doesn’t mean low-carb eaters have to miss out on Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Here’s how to reduce the carbs without losing the cozy soup vibes:

• Potato Replacement: Try using cauliflower florets or turnips in place of potatoes. They cook quickly and absorb flavor beautifully.
• Skip the Flour: Avoid thickening agents altogether and let the soup reduce naturally.
• Cheese and Cream: Keep the sharp cheddar and heavy cream! These are keto-friendly fats that actually enhance the richness of the soup.

By making just a few swaps, you can craft a low-carb Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup that satisfies all the cravings without breaking your macros.

Storing and Reheating Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

You made a big batch of this delicious Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup—now what? Don’t worry. This soup keeps beautifully and is perfect for meal prepping your week.

Refrigerating Your Soup

Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so your second and third bowls might be even better than the first.

When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or cream to revive the consistency if it thickens too much in the fridge.

Freezing for Later

You can freeze Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

To reheat: Let the soup thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir gently to reincorporate any separated ingredients. Add a little fresh cream or cheese if you want to boost the flavor after freezing.

Meal Prep Tip

If you’re planning to freeze part of your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, consider leaving out the cream and cheese during the initial cooking. When you’re ready to reheat and serve, stir them in fresh—this helps maintain that creamy, dreamy consistency.

More Recipes Like Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
If you’re all about rich flavors and cozy meals, don’t stop here! Try Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup

Conclusion

There’s something magical about a hot bowl of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. It’s more than just food—it’s warmth in a bowl, a recipe steeped in comfort, love, and bold flavor. From the garlicky foundation to the creamy cheddar finish, this soup delivers everything you want in a homemade dish: rich flavor, satisfying texture, customizable ingredients, and enough flexibility to fit nearly every dietary need.

Whether you’re cozying up on a cold winter night, prepping for a family dinner, or just craving something wholesome and deeply flavorful, this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup should be your go-to. It’s proof that simple ingredients—when used intentionally—can create extraordinary results.

Try it once, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again, each time adding your own little twist. And hey—don’t forget to save some for tomorrow. Like a good story, this soup gets better with time.

Common Questions About Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup RECIPE