Introduction to Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Homemade soup, especially a bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, is truly a game changer for young professionals navigating the hustle and bustle of daily life. In a world where time is precious and takeout menus often tempt us, knowing how to whip up a quick, nourishing meal is invaluable. This recipe not only warms your heart but also fills your belly with creamy, cheesy goodness that can be prepared in just 45 minutes!
Imagine coming home after a long day, the aroma of rich garlic and savory herbs wafting through your kitchen. Instead of reaching for that delivery app, you can savor the satisfaction of creating something truly special. Homemade soups are not just healthier, but they're also cost-effective. A few simple ingredients transform into a delightful meal that serves four, providing leftovers for busy lunches throughout the week.
And let’s not forget about the versatility! Whether you're a meat eater, vegetarian, or leaning toward vegan options, this recipe caters to diverse dietary needs. Check out our tips for adapting the soup to your liking – your tastebuds will thank you! So, let’s dive into how to create this soul-soothing dish as you embrace the joys of cooking at home.
Ingredients for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Essential ingredients for a comforting soup
Creating a Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup starts with a simple yet satisfying base. Here’s what you’ll need for that delightful creamy texture and rich flavor:
- Potatoes: 4-5 medium organic russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Olive oil & butter: A tablespoon each to sauté and add richness
- Onion & garlic: ½ red onion, chopped, and 6 garlic cloves, minced for that essential savory kick
- Spices: 2 teaspoons of an On Everything All-Purpose Blend and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika to deepen the flavor
- Vegetable stock: 4 cups to bring everything together
- Cream & cheese: 1 cup of heavy cream and 1-2 cups of freshly grated sharp cheddar for creaminess and decadence
Optional ingredients to elevate your soup
If you want to take your soup to the next level, consider adding these optional ingredients:
- Kale: 1 cup, chopped, for a nutritious boost
- Extra cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar and other favorites can add varied flavors
- Spices & herbs: Feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste preferences—perhaps trying out fresh herbs like thyme or chives.
Ready to gather these ingredients? You'll be on your way to a comforting bowl of soup that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-step preparation of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Gather and prep your ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, let's ensure you have everything you need for your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Start by gathering these ingredients:
- 4-5 medium organic russet or Yukon potatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ red onion, chopped
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons of On Everything All-Purpose Blend
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups organic vegetable stock or broth
- 1 cup organic heavy cream
- 1-2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- Optional: 1 cup kale, chopped for added nutrition.
Prepare the veggies by peeling and cubing the potatoes and chopping the onion. Don't forget to mince the garlic to fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!
Sauté the aromatics for rich flavor
In a medium-sized Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot and the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and chopped onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until they're translucent and fragrant. The combination of garlic and onion provides the foundation for a delicious soup.
Now, sprinkle in the smoked paprika and your On Everything All-Purpose Blend. This step is crucial as it layers in complex flavors that will shine through in every spoonful.
Add the potatoes and broth
Next, toss in your cubed potatoes and give everything a good stir to coat them with the flavorful mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth, then bring the pot to a boil for about 1-2 minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. If you prefer a creamier, thicker soup, you can simmer for an extra 10 minutes to break down the potatoes a bit more. If you like chunkier potato pieces, you might want to mix in a little flour with water to thicken instead.
Simmer to perfection
As your soup simmers, the flavors meld and develop — hand-in-hand with the tenderizing of the potatoes. This is the perfect time to reflect on how satisfying a warm bowl of soup can be after a long day, isn't it?
The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make it hard to wait, but trust the process. After about 20 minutes, the potatoes should be fork-tender and ready for the next steps.
Stir in the cream and cheese
Once the potatoes are perfectly cooked, it’s time to add the star ingredients that take this soup to another level: the heavy cream and cheddar cheese! Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and follow with the grated cheddar, stirring until it is beautifully melted and creamy. You can even add chopped kale at this stage for a healthy touch.
With everything blended together, your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is ready to be served! Spoon the warm, velvety goodness into bowls and consider topping with fresh parsley or green onions for that extra flair. Enjoy!
Variations on Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Vegan Version of the Soup
Want to savor the rich flavors of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup without dairy? Simply swap in vegan butter for the traditional butter and replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. For that cheesy goodness, try using nutritional yeast or your favorite dairy-free cheese shreds. These adjustments ensure you don’t miss out on the comforting taste while keeping it plant-based.
Adding Extra Veggies for a Nutritious Twist
Looking to amp up the nutrition? Toss in some extra veggies! Chopped carrots, celery, or even spinach can enhance both flavor and texture. Not only do they blend seamlessly into the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, but they also add vibrant colors and boost fiber content. You might just discover a new favorite variation!
For more ideas on making this soup your own, consider checking out Nutrition.gov for vegetable pairing suggestions!
Cooking tips and notes for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Storage tips for leftover soup
Leftover Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. For longer-lasting freshness, consider freezing the soup for 4-6 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply defrost in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature before reheating on the stove. This makes for a quick meal prep on busy days!
Slow cooker option for easy meal prep
Want an effortless cooking experience? Consider making this soup in a slow cooker! Just sauté your garlic and onions first, then toss everything else in—excluding the heavy cream and cheese—before setting your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. This method not only infuses the flavors, but it also means you can set it and forget it, making your meal prep a breeze. Ideal for a cozy weekend, don’t you think?
Serving Suggestions for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Elevate your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup experience with these simple yet delightful serving suggestions.
Best Breads to Pair with Your Soup
There's something magical about pairing a warm, hearty soup with a slice of freshly baked bread. Here are the best options:
- Crusty Baguette: Perfect for soaking up every last bite.
- Sourdough: Its tangy flavor balances the richness of the soup beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: For double the garlic goodness, serve alongside your soup.
Garnishes That Add Flair
Adding a splash of color and flavor can transform your soup’s presentation. Consider these garnishes:
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Parsley or chives add a fresh touch.
- Dairy-Free Cream: A swirl of coconut cream provides a rich finish.
- Turkey Bacon Crumbles: For a savory crunch atop your soup, sprinkle on some crispy turkey bacon.
Adding these simple touches not only enhances the visual appeal but elevates the taste of your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! For culinary inspiration and more tips, check out Serious Eats for additional recipes.
Time Breakdown for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready takes about 10 minutes. Chop your veggies, measure your ingredients, and you’ll be set to cook!
Cooking Time
Once you kick off the cooking process, it takes around 35 minutes to whip up this delicious and creamy soup.
Total Time
In total, you’ll invest 45 minutes to enjoy a warm bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick dinner after work! For more cooking tips, check out these handy kitchen hacks.
Nutritional Facts for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Calories
Each serving of this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup contributes approximately 292 calories. This makes it a satisfying meal option that won’t weigh you down, perfect for those cozy fall evenings.
Key Nutrients
This soul-warming soup is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients:
- Fat: 28g (mostly coming from the heavy cream and cheddar cheese)
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
While it may not be a protein powerhouse, it shines as a hearty comfort food option that’s rich in flavor.
Fiber Content
With about 1g of fiber, this soup offers a modest contribution to your daily fiber needs. To boost the fiber content, consider adding some diced vegetables or legumes. Want to know more about the benefits of fiber? Check out this insightful article from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
Embrace the warmth and nourishment of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, knowing it not only pleases your palate but also fits into a balanced diet!
FAQ about Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Can I reduce the fat content?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter version of your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, you can use low-fat milk or even almond milk instead of heavy cream. For added flavor without added fat, consider increasing the seasoning or adding more garlic, which can elevate the dish without compromising its creamy texture.
What other cheeses work well in the soup?
While sharp cheddar is the star, other cheeses can add unique flavors. Try Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different twist! Each cheese offers a delightful profile that complements the garlic and herbs while maintaining that creamy goodness.
How do I reheat leftovers properly?
To enjoy your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or separation. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Want more tips? Check out this article for great soup reheating strategies!
Conclusion on Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the perfect dish for cozy nights in, delivering warmth and comfort in every bowl. With simple ingredients and customizable options, you can enjoy this creamy delight while impressing your friends and family. Don't forget to save leftovers for an easy lunch!
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Equipment
- medium-sized dutch oven pot
Ingredients
SOUP
- 4-5 medium organic russet potatoes, peeled + cubed You can also use Yukon potatoes
- 1 tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ red onion chopped
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend You can purchase or make your own blend
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 Tbsps white cooking wine You can use additional veggie stock instead
- 4 cups organic vegetable stock/broth
- 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)
Instructions
TO MAKE THE SOUP
- In a medium-sized dutch oven pot over medium high-heat, add the olive oil and butter. Once heated and the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and chopped onions, and sauté until translucent + fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the smoked paprika and On Everything All-Purpose Blend, stirring until combined.
- Add in the cubed potatoes, stir to combine, and add in the vegetable stock. Bring everything to a boil for 1-2 minutes and reduce the heat to low and allow to simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes become tender and cooked through. NOTE: I prefer to let the potatoes simmer an extra 10 minutes until almost broken down which helps to naturally thicken the soup. However, if you prefer larger potato chunks, just add 1-2 Tbsps of flour mixed with water into the soup to thicken.
- Add in the heavy cream, kale (if using), and white cooking wine followed by the freshly-grated sharp cheddar, stirring frequently until the cheese has melted. Once creamy, remove from heat.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately into prepared bowl(s), top with freshly chopped parsley or green onions (scallion), and with a side of bread, if desired.
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