Oh, hello there, fellow food lovers! I’m so excited to share something truly special with you today – a recipe that’s become a staple in my kitchen and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser: Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup!
This Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting symphony of flavors that makes even the chilliest evenings feel cozy. I remember one particularly blustery Sunday, testing and tweaking this recipe, determined to get that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness.
There were definitely a few “learning experiences” along the way – a bit too much garlic (whoops!), not enough cheddar (a definite no-no!), and a texture that was, shall we say, less than ideal. But then, that breakthrough moment happened when I added a touch of cream cheese for extra richness and used roasted garlic instead of raw. Pure magic!
That day, my family gathered around the table, their faces lighting up with each spoonful. The silence, punctuated only by contented sighs, told me everything I needed to know – I had nailed it. And that’s what this blog is all about, right? Sharing those recipes that create beautiful moments and bring people together.
This Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup represents everything I believe in – approachable, comforting meals that transform your kitchen into a place of joy and connection. It’s about taking simple ingredients and turning them into something truly extraordinary, something that nourishes both body and soul.
I truly cannot wait to share this incredible recipe with you, and I just know you’re going to love making this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup as much as I do! Get ready for some serious deliciousness!
INGREDIENTS
- 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 cloves garlic, roasted (see instructions below)
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, sour cream, chopped chives

The secret to an amazing Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup? Roasting the garlic! It mellows the flavor and adds a wonderful sweetness that complements the cheddar perfectly. You can roast a whole head of garlic at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and easily squeezed out of their skins.
You’ll find the best cheddar for this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup at your local cheese shop or even in the specialty cheese section of your grocery store. A good sharp cheddar makes all the difference!
If you want to splurge on one Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup ingredient, make it the cream. Using high-quality heavy cream adds a richness that can’t be beat.
For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Or, for a dairy-free option, try using full-fat coconut milk, but be aware it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
Storage wisdom: You can peel and chop the potatoes for this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup a day ahead of time and store them in cold water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Just drain them well before using.
This Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup ingredient list is surprisingly simple but delivers incredible comfort! This Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup reminds me of another delicious creation that is sweet and comforting. For more inspiration, check out my Sweet Potato Rolls!
Let’s Make This!
- First, melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. This is the base of your Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup, so take your time and let those flavors develop!
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will help thicken the Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer. Don’t worry – your Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup is going to turn out beautifully!
- Add the cubed potatoes and roasted garlic to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the creamy potato soup back to a simmer, then reduce the heat, cover, and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. In my kitchen, this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup takes exactly 18 minutes to cook the potatoes perfectly.
- Once the potatoes are tender, remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids! Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese until smooth and melted. Here’s a helpful tip for Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup success: make sure the cream cheese is softened so it blends in easily. This step might seem tricky, but I promise your Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup will work perfectly!
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Your Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup should look creamy and decadent, smell wonderfully garlicky and cheesy, and feel smooth and comforting.
- Ladle the cheesy garlic soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chopped chives. This is where your Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup transforms into something truly special!
This Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. While your Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup is cooking, take a moment to enjoy that amazing aroma! Here is another easy potato soup recipe, called Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup Recipe for you to explore
SERVING & PRESENTATION
Presenting this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup is all about creating a comforting and inviting experience. Ladle it into warm bowls, and don’t be shy with the toppings!
Consider pairing this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup with a simple grilled cheese sandwich or a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. The warm, cheesy flavors complement each other perfectly. For more comfort food inspiration, check out this Delicious Ham and Potato Soup Recipe.
This Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup is perfect for a cozy night in, a casual get-together with friends, or even a special occasion like a holiday gathering. People always smile when I serve this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup at Thanksgiving!
For a simple but elegant plating technique, swirl a dollop of sour cream on top of the soup and sprinkle with chopped chives. A sprinkle of smoked paprika adds a touch of color and warmth.
I’ve witnessed so many heartwarming reactions to this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup. From kids exclaiming “This is the best soup ever!” to adults savoring each spoonful with a contented sigh, it always brings smiles to faces. This Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup creates the sweetest moments at family dinners!
Leftovers of this cheesy garlic soup are fantastic! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
For a seasonal variation, try adding roasted butternut squash to the soup in the fall, or some fresh corn kernels in the summer.
FAQs
- Can I make this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, the flavors often meld together even better when made ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- What if I don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes for my Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup? Russet potatoes will also work, but they may not be as creamy. Red potatoes are another option, but they have a slightly waxier texture.
- How do I know when my Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup is perfectly done? The potatoes should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. The soup should be smooth and creamy, with a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Can I freeze this creamy potato soup? While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly upon thawing due to the dairy content. If you do freeze it, let it thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What can I add to make this loaded potato soup even more flavorful? A splash of hot sauce, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or a pinch of smoked paprika can all add a little extra zing!
- Is this recipe gluten-free? As written, it is not gluten-free because it contains flour. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup.
- Can I use pre-shredded cheese for the Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup? While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly. For the best results, I recommend shredding your own cheese.
- What kind of milk can be used if I don’t have heavy cream? If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half for a similar richness, or whole milk for a lighter version. Keep in mind that using milk with a lower fat content will result in a less creamy soup.
Many people from our community say that adding a dollop of sour cream and fresh chives makes this dish into a culinary experience.
Why This Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup Will Become Your New Favorite
This Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience, a comforting embrace in a bowl that embodies everything Carmen Wausa stands for – creating delicious, approachable meals that bring joy and connection to your kitchen.
- My Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup Success Tip #1: Don’t skip the roasted garlic! It truly elevates the flavor of this soup.
- My Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup Success Tip #2: Use high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- My Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup Success Tip #3: Taste and adjust seasonings as you go. Salt and pepper are your friends!
I’ve created a few variations of this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup over the years, and they’ve all been a hit:
- Spicy Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick!
- Bacon & Chive Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup: Load it up with crumbled bacon and chopped chives for a classic loaded potato soup experience. For those seeking an even heartier version, you might also enjoy Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup – The Ultimate Comfort Food …
- Broccoli Cheddar Garlic Potato Soup: Add steamed broccoli florets for a boost of nutrients and a pop of color.
The bacon and chive version always gets the most smiles, especially from the kids!

I’m so confident that you’ll absolutely love this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup. It’s so easy to make, and so incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again, a staple in your family’s repertoire.
So go ahead, give it a try! I know you can do it, and I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious results. Share your creations with me – I’d love to see your take on this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup and the beautiful moments it creates in your home! Happy cooking, and happy memory-making!
Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup
This creamy Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food! Loaded with cheesy goodness and fragrant garlic, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add garlic and onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender in batches. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
- Return the soup to the pot. Stir in milk and cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and smooth.
- Stir in sour cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the soup while cooking. Top with crispy bacon bits for added texture.