Introduction to Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
There's nothing quite like curling up with a warm bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup on a brisk evening. This comforting dish is a blend of rich flavors and creamy textures, promising to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. But what makes potato soup the ultimate comfort food?
Why Potato Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food?
Potato soup has a unique ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth. With its creamy consistency, hearty ingredients, and delightful seasonings, it’s no wonder this dish holds a special place in our hearts—and stomachs! Potatoes are not only versatile but also packed with nutrients, making them a great base for a variety of soups. According to the American Heart Association, incorporating nutritious vegetables like potatoes into your diet can aid in maintaining heart health.
The beauty of potato soup lies in its adaptability. Whether you prefer a chunky texture or a smooth, velvety finish, you can customize it to fit your taste. Plus, it's a fantastic opportunity to sneak in other ingredients, like greens or spices, allowing each bite to burst with flavor. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to experience the warmth of a bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! This recipe not only nourishes your body but also nourishes the spirit, making it the perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
List of ingredients needed
To whip up a delicious batch of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, gather these key ingredients:
- 4-5 medium organic russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon potatoes work too!)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons On Everything All-Purpose Blend (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups organic vegetable stock or broth
- 1 cup organic heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan twist)
- 1-2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup kale, chopped (optional)
Tips for selecting the best potatoes
When choosing potatoes, aim for those with a smooth skin, free from blemishes or dark spots. Russet potatoes are your best bet for that creamy texture, while Yukon gold potatoes offer a buttery flavor. If you’re unsure, consult this potato guide for more tips on varieties. When in doubt, ask your local farmer’s market—they can help you pick the freshest ones!
Now that you're armed with the ingredients, you're ready to create this soul-soothing soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Preparing Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Creating a delicious pot of hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup is a wonderfully rewarding experience that can warm both your home and your heart. Packed with fresh flavors and creamy textures, this soup is perfect for cozy nights in. Let’s dive into the steps that will have you savoring this delightful dish in no time!
Sauté the aromatics
The first step to infusing your soup with flavor is to sauté the aromatics. Begin by heating a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and a tablespoon of unsalted butter in a medium-sized Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and begins to bubble, add in your chopped red onion and minced garlic. Sauté these two ingredients until they're translucent and fragrant, which should take about 1–2 minutes. The aroma of sautéed garlic is sure to bring a cozy warmth to your kitchen! To make it even more exciting, sprinkle in some smoked paprika and your On Everything All-Purpose Blend at this point, stirring until they’re well combined.
Add the potatoes and broth
Once your aromatics are nicely sautéed, it’s time to add the star of the show—potatoes! Toss in 4 to 5 medium organic russet potatoes, chopped into cubes, and stir to combine. After your potatoes are well-mixed, pour in 4 cups of organic vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a boil for 1–2 minutes, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. This is where the magic happens—allow those potatoes to become tender, which should take around 15-20 minutes. If you prefer a thicker soup, feel free to let it simmer for an extra 10 minutes until the potatoes are almost breaking down.
Simmer until tender
As your potatoes cook, be sure to keep an eye on the texture. You want them tender yet not falling apart completely. The creamy richness will come later, and you don’t want to lose the delightful chunks of potato that add substance to your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup.
Stir in cream and cheese
Now comes the creamy touch! Stir in 1 cup of organic heavy cream, along with your kale if you're using it. Gradually mix in 1 to 2 cups of freshly-grated sharp cheddar cheese, stirring frequently until it melts into a luxurious, velvety blend. At this stage, don’t be shy to taste and adjust seasonings if needed—your soup should be singing with flavor!
Serve and enjoy
Once the soup reaches your desired creaminess, it’s ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls, and if you like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. A side of warm bread would complement this heavenly dish perfectly. So, grab a spoon, dig in, and savor every mouthful of your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup. Bon appétit!
For more culinary adventures, check out this article for tips on maximizing flavors in your soups or this source for the health benefits of incorporating more potatoes into your diet. Enjoy!
Variations on Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Vegan Option for the Soup
If you're looking for a plant-based twist on this hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup, it’s easier than you think! Simply swap out the unsalted butter for vegan butter and replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream or a rich dairy-free milk. For a cheesy flavor, use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese shreds. This way, you'll still enjoy a creamy, satisfying texture while keeping it completely vegan-friendly.
Adding Proteins Like Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham
Want to make your soup even heartier? You can easily add proteins like turkey bacon or chicken ham. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic to infuse the dish with extra flavor. Not only does this elevate the soup, but it also adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the creaminess. Plus, who doesn’t love a savory touch to their comforting favorites?
For those seeking meal-prep inspiration, consider checking out these tips on making soups more versatile, ensuring you never get bored of your culinary creations!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Importance of Slow Cooker Options
Using a slow cooker for your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup not only frees up your time, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. After just a bit of initial sautéing for the garlic and onion, add the rest of the ingredients (except cheese and cream) and let it work its magic on low for 6-8 hours. This hands-off approach is perfect for a busy day; just set it and forget it!
Suggestions for Ingredient Adjustments
Feel free to get creative with ingredient adjustments! If you're low on vegetable stock, chicken stock works just as well. Want a slightly lighter version? Swap out heavy cream with a plant-based option like coconut milk for a vegan-friendly twist. Experiment with herbs or substitute the cheese for nutritional yeast—after all, customizing is half the fun of cooking!
For more inspiration, check out these simple ingredient swaps that can take your soup to the next level!
Serving suggestions for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Perfect side dishes to accompany the soup
Pairing side dishes with your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup can elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it alongside:
- Crusty Bread or Rolls: Freshly baked sourdough or artisan rolls complement the soup's creamy texture beautifully.
- Simple Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette adds freshness.
- Turkey Bacon Strips: Crispy turkey bacon can offer a satisfying crunch and a savory flavor contrast.
Best garnishes for presentation
A touch of garnishing makes all the difference in presentation! Enhance your soup with:
- Chopped Green Onions or Chives: They add a pop of color and flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley is both visually appealing and refreshing.
- Extra Shredded Cheese: A handful of extra sharp cheddar on top makes for a delicious finishing touch.
Serve in rustic bowls for that cozy feel, and don’t forget to savor every spoonful of your delicious creation! For more ideas, check out other comfort food pairings here.
Time breakdown for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Preparation Time
Getting started with your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a breeze! Set aside about 10 minutes to wash, peel, and chop your ingredients. This quick prep will have you ready to dive into the cooking process in no time.
Cooking Time
Once your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to get cooking! Allow 35 minutes for the soup to simmer and meld all those delicious flavors together. Trust me, the aroma alone will make your kitchen feel inviting.
Total Time
Altogether, you’re looking at 45 minutes from counter to table. In less than an hour, you’ll have a cozy pot of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup ready to serve! Perfect for a weeknight meal or a comforting weekend treat.
Check out more about the health benefits of potatoes here.
Nutritional Facts for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Calories
When you indulge in this hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup, you're looking at about 292 calories per serving. It’s a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and filling, making it a great choice for any time of day!
Fiber and Protein Content
In terms of dietary fiber, this soup contains 1g, which helps to keep your digestion runny smoothly! Additionally, you'll find that it offers about 2g of protein per serving, perfect for keeping energy levels steady throughout your busy day.
Key Vitamins and Minerals
This delicious soup is not just tasty but also packed with nutrition. Each serving provides:
- Vitamin A: 2234 IU – great for eye health and immune function.
- Calcium: 67 mg – important for strong bones.
- Potassium: 131 mg – essential for heart health and proper muscle function.
If you want more insights on the nutritional benefits of potatoes, you can explore the USDA's FoodData Central for detailed nutritional information and guidance. Enjoy your wholesome bowl of soup knowing it’s doing good things for your body!
FAQs about Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
What are some good substitutes for heavy cream?
If you're looking to lighten things up or follow a dairy-free diet, there are several options! Consider using coconut cream, cashew cream, or almond milk. For a similar texture, full-fat coconut milk is particularly creamy and delicious in this soup.
How do I store leftovers safely?
Storing your leftovers is straightforward. Simply transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to save it longer, consider freezing portions for up to 6 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight when you're ready to enjoy it again!
For more tips, check out resources from FoodSafety.gov on food storage best practices.
Conclusion on Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
In conclusion, this hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup is truly a bowl of comfort that you’ll want to revisit time and again. Its rich, creamy texture combined with flavorful herbs makes it perfect for chilly evenings. Serve it warm with a slice of bread for a delightful meal. Enjoy!
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Slow Cooker
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 cup red onion, chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons On Everything All-Purpose Blend See Notes for authentic flavor
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons 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.
- 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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