Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

There’s just something comforting about this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup that will have you wanting another bowl! Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings, this hearty soup combines rich flavors with a creamy texture. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions. Whether you are enjoying it on a chilly day or serving it as a delicious starter, this soup is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The blend of cheddar cheese and garlic creates a warm, inviting taste that feels like a big hug in a bowl.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can achieve great results.
• Versatile Options: This recipe can easily be modified to accommodate vegan diets or preferences by substituting key ingredients.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering, this soup fits right in.
• Kid-Friendly: The rich cheese flavor makes this dish appealing to children and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Perfect for hands-off cooking. It allows flavors to meld beautifully while you attend to other tasks.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe space for chopping vegetables, ensuring efficiency and safety in the kitchen.
• Chef’s knife: A well-sharpened knife makes prep work quicker and easier, saving you time during the cooking process.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 4-5 medium organic russet potatoes, peeled + cubed (You can also use Yukon potatoes)
• 1 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 red onion, chopped
• 6 garlic cloves, minced

Seasonings and Liquids

• 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 Tbsps white cooking apple vinegar (or additional veggie stock)
• 4 cups organic vegetable stock/broth

Creamy Additions

• 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)

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Cut them into cubes and set them aside. Chop the red onion and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a slow cooker, heat the extra virgin olive oil and unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cubed potatoes to the slow cooker along with the On Everything All-Purpose Blend, smoked paprika, white cooking apple vinegar (or additional veggie stock), and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Cook

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for about 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Blend & Add Cream

Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of it. Stir in heavy cream gradually while mixing to achieve your desired creaminess.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese & Kale

Add freshly-grated sharp cheddar cheese into the soup, stirring until melted. Fold in chopped kale if using, allowing it to wilt before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup!

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a warm and filling dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your soup experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of a crusty baguette for dipping into the rich and creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread to complement the garlic flavors in the soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Chives: Sprinkle chopped chives on top for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
• Parsley Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness.

Accompanied by Salads

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad balances well with the creamy texture of the soup.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.

As Part of a Meal

• Serve as an Appetizer: Offer small bowls as an appetizer before the main course to whet the appetite.
• Pair with Sandwiches: This soup pairs beautifully with grilled cheese or turkey sandwiches for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

To ensure your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh potatoes and herbs for optimal flavor and texture.
• Adjust Creaminess: For a vegan option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for richness without dairy.
• Enhance Flavor: Add additional spices like thyme or rosemary to elevate the taste profile.
• Control Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend part of it and mix back in for creaminess without adding more cream.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavors in your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots make a perfect side for dipping into your soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a healthy, refreshing side.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and veggies complement the creamy soup nicely.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add brightness to your plate.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs echo the potato theme while providing crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common pitfalls when making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Here’s how to steer clear of them:

• Boldly skip the prep! Failing to chop your vegetables uniformly can result in uneven cooking. Make sure all your potatoes and onions are cut to similar sizes for consistent texture.
• Boldly ignore seasoning! Neglecting to add enough salt or spices can lead to a bland soup. Taste as you go, adjusting flavors with additional herbs or spices.
• Boldly overlook liquid balance! Using too little broth will make your soup thick and pasty. Always stick to the recommended amount of vegetable stock for the right consistency.
• Boldly rush the cooking time! Cooking your soup too quickly can prevent the flavors from developing fully. Allow sufficient time for simmering so all ingredients meld beautifully.
• Boldly forget garnishes! Skipping toppings can make your dish less appealing. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or cheese on top adds flavor and enhances presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup:

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and omit any dairy cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.

How spicy is Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

This soup is not spicy; however, you can easily add chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like carrots, celery, or even corn for added nutrition and flavor!

What is the best way to serve this soup?

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is delicious on its own or served with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Customize it by adding different veggies or using various cheese options according to your taste. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings and will surely warm you up—don’t hesitate to try it out!