Cozy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup (Rich, Creamy & Easy!)

🕒 Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 35 min | Total Time: 50 min

🥔 Ingredients

• 2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 6–7 medium)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter or 3 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp butter
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (1.5 cups)
• 5–6 cloves garlic, minced (2 tbsp)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional but recommended)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

• Cooked crumbled bacon
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Fresh chives or parsley
• Croutons

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Potatoes: Peel and cube potatoes into ½-inch pieces. Rinse under cold water to reduce starchiness and avoid a gummy soup.
2. Sauté Onion: In a large pot, melt butter or heat oil/butter mix. Add onion and cook for 5–7 min until soft and translucent.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 min until fragrant (don’t let it brown).
4. Make Roux: Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 1–2 min to cook out the raw flour taste.
5. Add Broth: Gradually whisk in broth, scraping the pot bottom. Bring to a simmer for a smooth base.
6. Cook Potatoes: Add potatoes, return to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook for 15–20 min until fork-tender.
7. Blend Partially: Use an immersion blender to blend half the soup (or transfer half to a blender, then return it to the pot). This gives the soup a creamy-chunky texture 🥣.
8. Add Dairy & Herbs: Lower heat and stir in milk and cream. Mix in parsley, chives, and thyme. Warm through gently — do not boil!
9. Melt Cheese: Remove from heat and slowly stir in cheddar, one handful at a time, until fully melted 🧀.
10. Season & Serve: Add salt, pepper, and optional cayenne or paprika. Ladle into bowls, add garnishes, and enjoy!

✅ Pro Tips

• Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
• Freezing: Freeze without the dairy, then add milk/cream when reheating.
• Swap it up: Use white cheddar or add roasted garlic for a flavor twist.

🥄 Nutrition Info + Disclaimer

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 bowl	500	17g	36g	28g	4g	6g

Disclaimer:
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.