Name: Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe with Turkey Bacon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large potatoes; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 slices turkey bacon; 1 medium onion; 3 cloves garlic; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

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Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe with Turkey Bacon

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Sunday, December 7, 2025 4:03 pm

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe Outline

Introduction to Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

If there’s one dish that embodies warmth and comfort, it’s a bowl of hearty potato soup. This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup recipe takes the timeless concept of potato soup to a whole new level. Imagine creamy potatoes mingling with the sharpness of aged cheddar, the aromatic essence of garlic, and the freshness of herbs. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in a cozy blanket on a chilly day.

Homemade soup has a special place in many households. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of love, you can whip up something that nourishes both body and soul. This soup not only packs a punch in flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. When you create your own soup, you control the ingredients, which means fewer preservatives and chemicals—just pure goodness. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of serving something you’ve crafted with your own hands.

But why will you love this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup recipe specifically? Simple! It’s versatile, comforting, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying a quiet night in, this soup brings the flavor while being easy on your schedule. Plus, it’s the ideal recipe to turn leftovers into something spectacular. Why settle for bland when you can elevate your meals with this delectable creation?

Ingredients for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this hearty soup, you’ll need just a few essential ingredients:

Potatoes: About 4 cups of cubed potatoes (Yukon Gold works great)
Broth: 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
Onion: 1 medium onion, chopped
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar
Cream: 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half
Herbs: 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley and thyme, chopped
Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste
Turkey Bacon: Optional, for added flavor and texture

Optional Garnishes for Extra Flavor

To make your soup even more inviting, consider adding:

A sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions
A swirl of sour cream or Greek yogurt
Extra shredded cheese for that cheesy goodness
Croutons for a delightful crunch

Step-by-Step Preparation of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Preparing your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is as satisfying as it is simple. Follow these steps for a delicious homemade experience:

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small, even pieces. Gather all your measured ingredients so you can move quickly once you start cooking.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s translucent. This infuses the oil with sweetness, laying a great foundation for your soup.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The aroma of garlic sizzling in the pan will have your kitchen smelling divine!
Incorporate the Potatoes: Add your diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the broth. Bring it to a simmer and cook for around 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Blend the Soup: For that creamy texture, you can use an immersion blender right in the pot, or carefully transfer the soup to a blender. Blend until smooth, but if you prefer a chunkier soup, blend just half of it.
Stir in the Cream and Cheese: Return the blended soup to the pot (if you used a blender), and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
Season and Garnish: Finally, stir in the fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’ve chosen to add turkey bacon, now is the time to toss it in.
Serve Warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings. Enjoy this heartwarming dish with slices of crusty bread or a fresh salad!

Variations on Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Adding Different Cheeses for Unique Flavors

One of the great things about this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is its versatility. While sharp cheddar is fantastic, why not explore different cheese options? Try a blend of gouda for smokiness or pepper jack for a little heat. Each cheese adds its own character to the soup, making it unique every time you prepare it.

Making it Vegetarian-Friendly

For those looking for a vegetarian option, feel free to swap out the chicken broth for a robust vegetable broth. You can also add chickpeas or lentils for protein, making the dish more filling. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

Cooking Tips and Notes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t rush the sautéing process; caramelizing the onions and garlic enhances flavor.
Avoid over-blending your soup if you prefer some texture. Get to know your blender to find the right balance.
Ensure you use room temperature cream to prevent curdling when adding it to the hot soup.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Creamy Texture

Incorporate the cream slowly, stirring constantly to meld it into the soup seamlessly.
Use a mix of starchy and waxy potatoes to create an ideal creamy texture without needing too much cream.

Serving Suggestions for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Best Accompaniments for Your Soup

This rich soup pairs wonderfully with crusty French bread or a green salad. A side of garlic bread also makes a great companion—there’s nothing like loading up on comforting carbs!

Creative Serving Ideas

Serve your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic presentation. Or, consider topping it with a spicy drizzle of hot sauce or infused oils for an extra flavor kick.

Time Breakdown for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Preparing this soup is efficient and rewarding. Expect about 10 minutes for prep, 30 minutes for cooking, and about 5 minutes for serving—bringing you to a delicious dinner in approximately 45 minutes.

Nutritional Facts for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information per serving (assuming 8 servings):

Calories: Approximately 320
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 3g

FAQ about Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just be aware that the texture may change slightly once thawed. To reheat, slowly warm it on the stove and add a splash of cream if necessary.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based cream substitute and nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Just follow the same preparation steps, and you’ll have a creamy soup without dairy.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it can last for about 3-4 days. Just give it a stir and reheat thoroughly before enjoying!

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

While fresh herbs add a great flavor boost, you can substitute dried herbs (1:3 ratio) if that’s what you have on hand.

Conclusion on Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

There you have it! This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is not just for chilly nights; it’s a comforting dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Remember that the best meals come from your kitchen—encouraging you to experiment and make it your own. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful creation. Your taste buds will thank you!