This cozy, creamy potato soup is packed with cheddar cheese, garlic, and herbs—perfect for chilly nights or meal prep lunches.
3 tbsp butter or olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
4 cups vegetable broth
2½ lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 bay leaf
1½ cups whole milk or cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: sour cream, chives, bacon, hot sauce
In a large pot, sauté onion and celery in butter until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually add broth, then potatoes and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Stir in milk and herbs. Simmer 5–7 minutes more.
Remove bay leaf. Mash some potatoes or blend part of the soup if desired.
Turn off heat and stir in cheese until melted. Season to taste.
Serve warm with desired toppings.