This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is a creamy and comforting dish packed with flavor, perfect for chilly evenings.

Scale

2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes

peeled and cubed

4 tablespoons unsalted butter or 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter

1 large yellow onion

finely chopped

5–6 cloves garlic

minced

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)

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese

freshly shredded

1 tablespoon fresh parsley

finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh chives

finely chopped

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional)

cooked crumbled bacon (optional)

extra shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

more fresh chives or parsley (optional)

croutons (optional)

In a large pot, melt the butter (or heat olive oil) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent.
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and garlic, stirring well to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
Add the cubed potatoes, salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes for a thicker texture, leaving some chunks for heartiness.
Stir in the whole milk, heavy cream (if using), and half of the cheddar cheese until melted and the soup is creamy.
Stir in the parsley and chives. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon, extra cheese, sour cream, chives, or croutons if desired.

For the creamiest texture, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded. This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Keywords: Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe, creamy potato soup, comfort food, cheddar soup, garlic herb soup