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! With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup is perfect for chilly nights or any cozy gathering. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted for various dietary needs, including vegan options. Plus, it’s loaded with wholesome ingredients that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and garlic creates a warm and inviting flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup simmering away in no time.
• Versatile Options: Easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and mild flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or lunch leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the right tools before you start. Having everything organized helps streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Mixing Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Perfect for hands-off cooking; just set it and forget it while your flavors meld together beautifully.
• Chef’s Knife: A good knife is essential for quickly chopping vegetables, ensuring even cooking throughout the soup.

Ingredients

Potatoes and Aromatics

• 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 Broth

• 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

Creaminess Factor

• 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 peeling and cubing the potatoes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. This makes it easier when you start cooking.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In your slow cooker, add the olive oil and unsalted butter. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are fragrant and translucent.

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, and vegetable stock. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for about 35 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Once cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted. If desired, add chopped kale at this stage for added nutrition.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional cheese or herbs if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Serve it in various ways to enhance the flavor and presentation.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with some warm, crusty bread for dipping. A sourdough or whole-grain loaf works wonderfully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish the soup with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, to add a burst of color and freshness.

With a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a light salad, like a mixed greens salad, to balance the richness of the soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun presentation, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This adds an extra layer of flavor!

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Finish your soup with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for added richness and depth of flavor.

How to Perfect Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Achieving the perfect Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is all about technique and ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will provide more flavor than dried alternatives.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend part of it using an immersion blender to create a creamy texture.

• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.

• Add Veggies: Toss in other vegetables such as carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor.

• Season Gradually: Taste as you go; this allows you to adjust seasoning without overpowering the dish.

• Make It Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a delicious vegan version.

Best Side Dishes for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Complement your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup with these delightful side dishes that add variety and balance to your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread complements the soup’s flavors perfectly.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and zest alongside the creamy soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer a great contrast in texture and taste.

4. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice, beans, or quinoa, adding additional heartiness to your meal.

5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing that brings nostalgia and comfort alongside your warm bowl of soup.

6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a refreshing contrast that pairs well with the richness of the soup.

7. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for an easy-to-eat appetizer that brightens up any table setting.

8. Vegetable Crudités: A platter of fresh vegetables served with hummus offers a crunchy side that balances out the creamy soup texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong potatoes: Using waxy or soft potatoes can change the texture of your soup. Stick to russet or Yukon potatoes for the best results.
• Overcooking garlic: Burning garlic can give your soup an unpleasant taste. Sauté it just until fragrant before adding other ingredients.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoned soup can be bland. Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process for optimal flavor.
• Skipping the blending step: For a creamy texture, don’t forget to blend part of the soup. This creates a rich, hearty consistency.
• Not allowing enough time to simmer: Rushing the cooking time can result in uneven flavors. Allow your soup to simmer fully for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.

Reheating Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, until heated through.
• Microwave: Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.

Can I make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup vegan?

Yes! Simply replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken broth.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?

You can try vegan cheese options or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How can I customize this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or celery, or even proteins like shredded chicken or turkey for added heartiness.

Can I use other herbs in this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives can all enhance the flavor of your soup. Adjust based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is not only comforting but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it as an appetizer, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Try adding your favorite veggies or spices to make it truly your own!