1-Getting started with this cheddar garlic herb potato soup creamy is as easy as gathering your ingredients and firing up the stove. Begin by peeling and cubing 4-5 medium russet potatoes, then heat 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a medium-sized pot over medium-high heat. This simple setup sets the stage for a soup that’s both creamy and full of flavor.

2-Next, sauté ½ chopped red onion and 6 minced garlic cloves until they turn translucent, which takes about 1-2 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and 2 tablespoons of your seasoning blend made up of sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried parsley for that extra kick. Add the cubed potatoes and 4 cups vegetable stock, then bring everything to a boil for 1-2 minutes before lowering the heat to simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

3-Achieving the Right Consistency: For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or mix in 1-2 tablespoons of flour with a bit of water to get that perfect creamy texture. After the potatoes are soft, stir in 1 cup heavy cream, optionally adding 1 cup chopped kale for extra nutrients, and 2 tablespoons white cooking wine or more vegetable stock. Finally, mix in 1-2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, stirring often until it melts smoothly and the soup turns wonderfully creamy.

4-First Step: Gather and prep all your ingredients to make cooking smooth and fun peel those potatoes and chop the onion ahead of time.

5-Second Step: In your pot, heat the oil and butter, then add the onion and garlic to sauté until fragrant.

6-Third Step: Toss in the spices and potatoes, pour in the stock, and bring it to a boil before simmering.

7-Fourth Step: Check the potatoes for tenderness, then adjust thickness as needed.

8-Fifth Step: Blend if you want it smoother, or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.

9-Sixth Step: Add the cream, kale if you’re using it, wine, and cheese, stirring gently to combine.

10-Seventh Step: For variations, swap in vegan ingredients like vegan butter and coconut cream to keep it dairy-free.

11-Final Step: Serve it hot, topped with chopped parsley or green onions, and pair with some crusty bread for a complete meal. This process takes just about 10 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to cook, making it perfect for busy parents or students. Haha, once you taste that cheesy goodness, you’ll want to make it every week!