There’s something about a pot of soup on the stove that makes fall and winter feel right, and Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is my go-to when I want that cozy feeling fast. It’s creamy, rich, and comforting, but still simple enough to make on a regular weeknight without stress. Inspired by classic loaded potato soup flavors, this version keeps things easy while delivering big, familiar comfort in every spoonful. I’ve made this kind of soup more times than I can count, tweaking it until the texture and flavor feel just right. Grab a spoon, because this is the kind of soup that turns an ordinary day into a cozy one.
Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- Rich and creamy, no heavy cream needed: It tastes indulgent, but the creaminess comes from simple pantry basics and tender potatoes, not heavy cream.
- Classic loaded baked potato flavor: Think buttery potatoes, savory garlic, herbs, and melty cheddar—comfort food you already love in soup form.
- One pot, stovetop friendly: Everything comes together in a single pot, which means less mess and more time to relax.
- Easy to customize with toppings: Everyone can make their bowl their own, just like a baked potato night.
- Cozy, family-friendly comfort: This is the kind of soup that makes everyone slow down and enjoy dinner together.
- Great for leftovers and meal prep: It reheats beautifully and gets even better as the flavors settle.
What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?
For the creamiest Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, starchy potatoes are your best friend. Russet potatoes are my top choice because they break down easily and help thicken the soup naturally. Yukon Golds also work well if you want a slightly buttery texture with a bit more structure. The more starch the potato has, the richer and thicker your soup will feel without extra effort.
Options for Substitutions
This soup is flexible, which is one of the reasons I make it so often. Whole milk gives the best texture, but unsweetened oat or almond milk can work if that’s what you have on hand. You can use all butter or all olive oil, though I’ve found the mix gives the richest flavor without feeling heavy. Water with chicken bouillon is convenient and full of flavor, but boxed stock works just as well. If you’re skipping bacon or cooking for vegetarians, simply leave it out and use vegetable bouillon—the soup still feels just as cozy and satisfying.
Ingredients for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Potatoes
Potatoes are the heart of this soup. They soften as they cook and help create that creamy, comforting texture without blending.
Yellow onion
A yellow onion adds gentle sweetness and depth. It builds the flavor base without overpowering the soup.
Garlic cloves
Fresh garlic brings warmth and aroma. It gives the soup that cozy, savory flavor that makes it feel homemade.
Butter
Butter adds richness and body. It helps create a smooth, comforting base right from the start.
Olive oil
Olive oil balances the butter and keeps it from burning. It also adds a subtle savory note.
All-purpose flour
Flour thickens the soup just enough. It gives the broth a creamy feel without making it heavy.
Milk
Milk adds softness and creaminess. It keeps the soup rich while still feeling light and cozy.
Chicken stock or water + bouillon
This is where most of the flavor comes from. Bouillon or stock adds depth without extra work.
Garlic & herb seasoning
This seasoning boosts flavor fast. It layers in herbs and garlic without extra chopping.
Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning adds balance. It brings a gentle herb flavor that ties everything together.
Salt
Salt wakes up all the flavors. Adding it slowly helps you stay in control.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds a little warmth. It finishes the soup without overpowering it.
Cheddar cheese (for topping)
Cheddar gives that classic loaded potato feel. It melts into the soup and makes every bite richer.
Optional toppings (sour cream, chives, bacon)
Toppings make it personal. They add texture, flavor, and that cozy loaded-potato finish.
How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
Start by melting the butter with the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, then stir and let them cook until soft and translucent. You’re not looking for color here, just that sweet, mellow smell that tells you they’re ready. This step sets the tone for the whole soup.
Step 2: Build the Roux
Sprinkle the flour right over the onions and garlic. Stir well so the flour absorbs all that fat and coats everything evenly. Cook it for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste. This is what gives the soup its creamy body later on.
Step 3: Create the Broth
Slowly pour in the stock or water and bouillon while stirring. Go steady so the mixture stays smooth. Add the milk and keep stirring until everything looks silky. This is when the soup starts to feel like soup.
Step 4: Add Potatoes & Seasoning
Add the potatoes, garlic and herb seasoning, Italian seasoning, and a little salt. Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then lower the heat. Give it a good stir so nothing sticks. The flavors start to come together here.
Step 5: Simmer Until Ultra Tender
Let the soup simmer on low heat until the potatoes are very soft. This takes time, but it’s worth it. You should be able to press a potato with a spoon and have it fall apart easily. That’s how you know the texture will be right.
Step 6: Finish & Adjust Texture
Use the back of your spoon to lightly smash some of the potatoes right in the pot. This thickens the soup without blending it. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Trust your taste here.
Step 7: Serve with Toppings
Ladle the soup into bowls and add your toppings. Cheddar cheese, sour cream, chives, and bacon make it feel like a loaded baked potato. Stir it gently and enjoy it while it’s hot. This is the cozy moment you’ve been waiting for.
How Long to Cook Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
This soup isn’t hard, but it does need a little time to get that cozy texture just right. I’ve learned not to rush it, because the potatoes really do the magic as they simmer.
- Prep time: About 10–15 minutes to chop and measure everything.
- Sauté time: Around 8–10 minutes to soften the onion and garlic.
- Simmer time: 40–45 minutes, until the potatoes are very soft.
- Total cook time: Roughly 1 hour from start to finish.
Tips for Perfect Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
To avoid flour lumps, sprinkle the flour slowly and stir the whole time. Think calm and steady, not rushed. If the soup feels too thick, add a splash of warm stock or milk until it loosens up. I always salt lightly at first and adjust at the end, especially since toppings add salt too. For extra creaminess, let the potatoes fully soften and gently smash a few instead of blending.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
Try not to brown the onions too much, or the soup can taste sharp instead of cozy. Don’t add cheese too early, or it can turn grainy and heavy. Undercooked potatoes will ruin the texture, so give them time to get very soft. It’s also easy to over-thicken the soup, but you can always fix that with more liquid. And always taste after toppings before adding more salt.
What to Serve With Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls
A warm piece of crusty bread is perfect for dipping. I love using it to soak up every last drop of the soup.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread adds extra flavor and crunch. It pairs well with the creamy texture of the soup.
Simple Green Salad
A fresh green salad keeps the meal balanced. The crisp bite is a nice contrast to the rich soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
You can never go wrong with grilled cheese and potato soup. The melty cheese makes the whole meal feel extra cozy.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted veggies add color and warmth to the table. They make the meal feel hearty without being heavy.
Cornbread
Cornbread brings a touch of sweetness. It’s soft, comforting, and perfect alongside a hot bowl of soup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
This soup stores well, which makes it perfect for busy weeks. Let it cool completely before storing, then keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The soup will thicken as it sits, which is totally normal. You can also freeze it for up to two months, just be sure to leave off the toppings and add them fresh later. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat and stir often. If it feels too thick, add a splash of milk or stock until it reaches the texture you like.
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving, estimates will vary based on toppings and portion size.
- Calories: ~320–360
- Protein: ~10–12 g
- Carbohydrates: ~35–40 g
- Fat: ~15–18 g
- Sodium: Moderate, depending on stock and toppings
Nutrition disclaimer: These values are estimates only and can change based on ingredients, brands, and serving size. Always adjust to fit your dietary needs and preferences.
FAQs for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Can I make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup without bacon?
Yes, you can skip the bacon completely. The soup still has plenty of flavor and stays cozy and satisfying without it.
Can I blend this soup?
You can, but it isn’t required. Lightly smashing the potatoes keeps the texture creamy while still feeling rustic and homemade.
How do I make this soup thicker or thinner?
For thicker soup, simmer a bit longer and smash more potatoes. For thinner soup, add a splash of milk or stock until it feels right.
Can I add cheese directly into the soup?
Yes, you can stir cheese in at the end if you like. Just keep the heat low so the cheese melts smoothly.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Yes, Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is great for meal prep. It stores well and tastes even better the next day.
Conclusion
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the kind of meal that makes cozy season feel complete. It’s warm, comforting, and easy to make, with flavors that feel familiar and satisfying every time. The best part is how easy it is to customize, so everyone can top their bowl just the way they like it. Whether you make it for a quiet night in or share it with family, this soup is one you can always count on. If you give it a try, come back and tell us how you topped yours—I’d love to hear from you next time.
Love cozy, creamy soups like this one? Don’t miss these other easy and comforting soup recipes:
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic. Cook until soft and translucent.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well. Cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly pour in chicken stock while stirring until smooth.
- Add milk and stir until silky.
- Add potatoes, garlic & herb seasoning, Italian seasoning, and salt.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for 40–45 minutes until potatoes are very soft.
- Lightly smash some potatoes with a spoon to thicken the soup.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
- Serve hot with cheddar cheese and desired toppings.
