Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal, look no further than our Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup recipe. This soup is not only creamy and rich but also packed with wholesome veggies that make it a family favorite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet simple, or for cozy family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a warm bowl of goodness. There’s just something about the combination of cheddar cheese, tender broccoli, and fluffy potatoes that warms the heart and fills the belly!

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delightful soup in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy flavors and hearty texture.
• Make-ahead friendly: This soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables, it’s as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side; it fits any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Our Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this cozy dish:

Vegetables

• 5 1/2 tbsp butter, divided
• 1 1/3 cups chopped carrots (about 3)
• 1 cup chopped celery (2 stalks)
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion (1 small)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chopped broccoli florets (from about 2 heads)

Broth & Seasonings

• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 1/2 cups peeled and cubed russet potatoes (cut 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thick; about 2 large)
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Creamy Base

• 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (preferably 1% or 2%)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Cheeses

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (8 oz)
• 1/3 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese (1 oz)

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Don’t hesitate to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Add extra greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for an even more nutrient-dense bowl of soup.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little kick.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for dairy products and use a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Bulk it up: Throw in some cooked quinoa or lentils to make your soup even heartier.

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté these veggies for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. This step builds the flavor base of your soup by releasing their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add in the low-sodium chicken broth along with the cubed potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bringing this mixture to a boil allows the potatoes to cook through while soaking up all those delicious flavors.

Step 3: Cook Until Tender

Reduce the heat after reaching a boil, cover your pot, and let everything simmer for about 15 minutes. This cooking time ensures that your potatoes are tender enough to blend seamlessly into your creamy soup later on.

Step 4: Incorporate Broccoli

Add your chopped broccoli florets to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes until tender. The bright green color of broccoli adds not only nutrition but also vibrancy to your dish.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Base

In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute while stirring constantly—this creates a roux that will thicken your soup beautifully.

Step 6: Create the Cream Sauce

Slowly add milk to your roux while whisking vigorously until it’s smooth with no lumps remaining. Continue cooking until this mixture thickens up nicely before stirring in heavy cream. This process enriches your soup with its decadent creaminess!

Step 7: Combine Everything Together

Pour the thickened cream mixture into your vegetable broth mixture in the large pot. Stir well until everything is combined beautifully—this is where magic happens!

Step 8: Finish with Cheese

Remove from heat and mix in both shredded cheddar cheese and parmesan until they melt into gooey perfection. The result is an irresistibly cheesy flavor that every spoonful offers.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Ladle this comforting Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup into bowls while it’s still warm. Enjoy every bite as you savor this delightful creation!

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Making the perfect cheddar broccoli potato soup is all about technique and a few special touches. Here are some pro tips to elevate your soup game!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor of your soup, giving it a vibrant taste that frozen or canned items simply can’t match.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider blending a portion with an immersion blender. This adds creaminess without needing additional cream.

• Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, mixing in other varieties like gouda or pepper jack can add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

• Season gradually: Taste as you go! Seasoning at each stage helps build layers of flavor, ensuring that no single ingredient overpowers the dish.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup actually tastes better the next day! Make it in advance to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an even more comforting meal.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Presenting your cheddar broccoli potato soup can turn a simple meal into an impressive feast. Let’s explore some creative ideas to serve this delicious dish!

Garnishes

A few thoughtful garnishes can make your soup not only tastier but also visually appealing.

• Chopped chives or green onions: These add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the creamy soup perfectly.

• Croutons: For added crunch, top your soup with homemade or store-bought croutons. They provide texture and a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the soup.

Side Dishes

Pairing your soup with complementary side dishes will create a satisfying meal. Here are some suggestions:

• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your cheesy soup, making every bite absolutely delightful.

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Toss in seasonal veggies for added crunch and flavor.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of vegetables. Serve seasonal veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts alongside for a nutritious touch.

• Cheese Quesadillas: Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, cheese quesadillas complement the flavors of your soup while adding a fun twist to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your cheddar broccoli potato soup is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your soup fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the soup to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for reference.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Pour into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup.

Can I use other types of cheese in Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Yes! While sharp cheddar gives a wonderful flavor, you can swap it with other cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda. Just keep in mind that this may alter the taste slightly.

How long does Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup will last about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Can I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup vegan?

Absolutely! To make a vegan version, substitute butter with plant-based butter, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and replace dairy milk and cream with almond or coconut milk.

What can I serve with Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

This delicious soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. It’s also great on its own as a comforting meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this warm and comforting Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and savor every spoonful. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with loved ones, this soup is sure to bring a smile to your face. Happy cooking!