Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl

There’s something magical about a big steaming bowl of Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup on a chilly day. It’s creamy, cozy, and packed with the rich flavors of cheddar, garlic, and herbs. Whether you’re looking for a cozy autumn dinner recipe, a hearty lunch, or the perfect cold weather food recipe, this soup checks every box.

This recipe is designed for home cooks of all levels — no complicated steps, just wholesome ingredients and simple techniques that lead to incredible flavor. Plus, it’s a loaded soup recipe that you can easily customize with your favorite toppings like crispy croutons, fresh chives, or even steamed veggies for extra nutrition.

If you love creamy soups, you might also enjoy trying our creamy mushroom pasta for another comforting dinner option.

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Why You’ll Love This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This isn’t just any potato soup. The combination of buttery Yukon Gold potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and aromatic garlic herbs creates a flavor that’s both rich and comforting.

Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• Simple ingredients – Everything you need is easy to find at your local grocery store.
• One-pot meal – Less cleanup means more time to enjoy.
• Customizable – Make it vegetarian or add extras for a loaded potato soup twist.
• Perfect for meal prep – Stores beautifully for days.

If you’re a fan of rich and creamy soups, our creamy wild rice and mushroom soup is another great choice.

What Is Potato and Cheddar Soup?

Potato and cheddar soup is a thick, creamy soup made with potatoes as the base, often blended with milk or cream, and flavored generously with sharp cheddar cheese. This version takes it up a notch with garlic and herbs for extra depth, creating a cheddar garlic herb potato soup that’s irresistible.

Ingredients for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious soup:

• 4 cups Yukon Gold potatoes (about 4–5 medium potatoes), peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (use vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, croutons, shredded cheese, bacon-style veggie bits

Tip: If you enjoy fall flavors, try pairing this soup with pumpkin zucchini bread for a cozy meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Potato and Cheddar Soup

Sauté the aromatics – In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

1. Cook the potatoes – Add the diced potatoes, broth, thyme, and parsley. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15–20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
2. Blend for creaminess – Use an immersion blender to puree some (or all) of the soup, depending on your preferred texture.
3. Add dairy and cheese – Stir in the milk, cream, and cheddar cheese. Continue cooking on low until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
4. Season and serve – Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

For another easy dinner option, check out our slow cooker chicken stew.

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Essential Kitchen Tools for the Perfect Potato Soup Bowl

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Immersion blender (or countertop blender)
• Wooden spoon
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Tips for Creamy and Flavorful Cheddar Garlic Potato Soup

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally creamy texture.
• Don’t let the soup boil after adding cheese — it can cause separation.
• For extra richness, add a small scoop of cream cheese.
• Garnish right before serving for the best presentation.

If you like creamy comfort food, our creamy Tuscan salmon is another must-try.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Loaded Soup Recipes

• Using pre-shredded cheese – It contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Overcooking potatoes – They can become grainy instead of creamy.
• Skipping seasoning – Potatoes need salt to bring out their flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Cozy Autumn Dinner Recipes

Serve your cheddar cheese potato soup in a bread bowl, or alongside garlic parmesan focaccia bread for dipping. For a lighter side, try a crisp salad like arugula nectarine salad.

Healthy Hearty Snacks to Pair with Your Soup

If you want a lighter bite to go with your soup, consider pairing it with crispy smashed potato salad or healthy smashed carrots.

How to Store and Reheat Potato and Cheddar Soup

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months, but note that dairy-based soups can separate slightly after thawing.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often.

Variations: From Classic Cheddar to Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• Vegetarian version – Use vegetable broth and add more herbs.
• Loaded baked potato soup – Top with sour cream, green onions, and crispy veggie bacon bits.
• Spicy twist – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

For a different take, try our creamy lemon chicken pasta — bright, tangy, and comforting.

Cold Weather Food Recipes Similar to Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup

If you love hearty bowls of comfort, you might enjoy:

• Texas cowboy stew
• Slow cooker chicken stew
• Creamy mushroom pasta

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FAQs About Making Potato and Cheddar Soup at Home

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook the potatoes, broth, and seasonings in your slow cooker for 6–8 hours on low, then blend and stir in dairy and cheese before serving.

What’s the best cheese for potato soup?
Sharp cheddar offers the most flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — swap in plant-based milk, cream, and vegan cheddar shreds.

Final Thoughts + Call to Action

This Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup is a cold-weather favorite you’ll want to make again and again. It’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor — perfect for cozy nights in. If you try this recipe, share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious homemade recipes.

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