When the air gets crisp and evenings feel cooler, nothing hits the spot like a steaming bowl of homemade soup. This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is creamy, flavorful, and deeply comforting. It’s packed with tender potatoes, rich cheddar cheese, and the fragrant blend of garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect for fall and late summer evenings, it’s one of those soup dishes you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

This hearty soup isn’t just delicious — it’s also versatile. Whether you’re planning recipes for September to welcome soup season, or simply want a cozy dinner, this creamy potato soup is an easy win.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

Rich and Creamy: Cheddar and potatoes create a silky base that’s filling and satisfying.
Flavorful: Garlic and herbs add depth without being overpowering.
Flexible: Serve it plain or top with crumbled bacon, scallions, or a dollop of sour cream.
Make Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prepping — leftovers taste even better the next day.

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup milk (or half-and-half for creamier texture)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh)
1 tsp dried parsley (or 2 tbsp fresh)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, green onions, extra cheddar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Base

In a large pot, melt butter with olive oil. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Add cubed potatoes to the pot and pour in the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 3: Blend for Creaminess

Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup (or transfer half to a blender and return). Leave some chunks for texture.

Step 4: Add Cheddar and Herbs

Reduce heat to low. Stir in milk, shredded cheddar, thyme, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with toppings of your choice — bacon, scallions, or a sprinkle of extra cheddar.

Tips & Variations

Herb Options: Try rosemary or dill for a unique twist on this potato garlic soup.
Extra Creaminess: Substitute part of the broth with heavy cream.
Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and skip the bacon topping.
Add Protein: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or diced ham for a heartier meal.
Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup can easily stand alone as a meal, but it also pairs beautifully with sides:

Crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping.
A crisp green salad to lighten the richness.
Roasted vegetables for extra color and nutrition.

Cozy Seasonal Inspiration

Soup season is all about warmth and comfort. This recipe is a delicious way to transition from summer into fall, making it one of the best soup fall recipes for busy families. It’s hearty enough for dinner but works just as well for lunch meal prep.

If you’re in the mood for more cozy recipes, try my Cream Cheese Chicken Chili for a creamy, protein-packed option. Or serve this soup alongside Garlic Butter Bread Rolls — the perfect side for dipping. And if you love potato-based comfort food, you’ll enjoy my Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes as well.

FAQ

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but leave out the cheese before freezing. Reheat and stir in the cheese for best texture.

What potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes give the creamiest texture.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients except cheese and milk to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours, then stir in milk and cheese before serving.

How do I thicken the soup?

Mash more potatoes or stir in a cornstarch slurry for extra thickness.

Can I make it lighter?

Yes, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheddar to cut calories while keeping flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort dish for soup season. Rich, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to when you need warmth in a bowl. Whether you’re planning late summer soup ideas or stocking up on fall soup recipes, this dish deserves a spot on your table.