A rich, creamy potato soup infused with garlic, herbs, and melted sharp cheddar cheese — perfect for cozy dinners and chilly weather comfort food.
2 tbsp butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4–5 cloves garlic, minced
2½ tbsp all-purpose flour
2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp dried rosemary
Salt and black pepper to taste
1½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Optional: ¼ cup sour cream or 2 oz cream cheese
Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, green onions, parsley
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery 5–6 minutes. Add garlic and herbs; cook 1 minute.
Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Add broth and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
Partially blend the soup with an immersion blender or mash some of the potatoes with a spoon.
Stir in milk and cheddar over low heat until smooth. Add sour cream or cream cheese if using.
Adjust seasoning and serve hot with desired toppings.
Use fresh herbs if available. Grate cheese fresh for best melting. Add cooked bacon or greens for variation.