Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a deliciously cozy meal to warm your heart and soul, our Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is just the ticket! This recipe is a true favorite in my kitchen, and I love making it on chilly evenings when comfort food is a must. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies while still creating a dish that everyone will adore!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: This soup comes together quickly, making it great for those days when time is tight.
• Family-friendly: With its rich flavor and creamy consistency, even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it for an effortless meal later.
• Flavorful and satisfying: The combination of cheddar cheese and hearty veggies creates a comforting bowl of goodness that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup requires just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. You probably have many of these already in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 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 1/2 cups peeled and cubed russet potatoes (cut 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thick; about 2 large)
• 3 cups chopped broccoli florets (from about 2 heads)

Broth and Seasoning

• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 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

Cheese

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add some protein: Toss in cooked chicken or turkey for an extra filling meal.
• Go veggie: Substitute cauliflower or spinach for broccoli if you’re looking for something different.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
• Dairy-free option: Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives for a wonderful vegan version.

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté these vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Broth

Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth along with the cubed potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat, covering the pot, and letting it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Incorporate Broccoli

After the potatoes have softened, add in the chopped broccoli florets. Cook everything together for an additional 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green. This step ensures that your veggies are perfectly cooked without losing their nutrients!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Mixture

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute while stirring constantly to create a roux. Gradually add in the milk while whisking until smooth—this prevents lumps from forming. Cook until this mixture thickens nicely before stirring in the heavy cream.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time to combine! Pour your thickened mixture into the pot with your soup base. Stir everything well until combined. Remove from heat and fold in both the sharp cheddar cheese and parmesan until they melt into that creamy deliciousness we love so much.

Step 6: Serve Up Your Soup

Ladle your warm cheddar broccoli potato soup into bowls and enjoy! It’s perfect with crusty bread on the side or simply by itself as a hearty meal.

I hope you love this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s more than just food; it’s comfort served in a bowl!

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Making a delicious cheddar broccoli potato soup is all about the details! Here are some expert tips to elevate your cooking experience and ensure your soup comes out perfect every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese will enhance the flavors of your soup, making it taste vibrant and delicious. Look for bright green broccoli and firm potatoes for the best results.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a creamier texture, simply blend a portion of the soup before adding the cheeses. This adds a creamy richness without needing extra cream, while still keeping some chunky veggies for texture.

• Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the quantities based on how strong you want the cheese flavor to be!

• Season as you go: Don’t wait until the end to season your soup! Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process to build layers of flavor that make each bite delightful.

• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to bring back its creamy consistency.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving your cheddar broccoli potato soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to showcase this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or green onions: These add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the soup.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.
• A sprinkle of paprika: A dash of paprika not only adds visual appeal but also introduces a subtle warmth that enhances the overall taste.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread makes it an ideal companion for dipping into your cheesy soup, adding both texture and flavor.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides balance to the rich soup and adds nutritional variety.
• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice offers a bright, fresh side that pairs perfectly with the hearty flavors of your soup.
• Cornbread muffins: These sweet and savory treats are perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup while giving your meal that cozy comfort food vibe.

Now you’re ready to serve up bowls of deliciousness filled with creamy cheddar broccoli potato soup! Enjoy every hearty spoonful, whether on a chilly day or any time you crave something warm and satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to keep your soup fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container or bag as the soup will expand when frozen.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. For best quality, consume sooner.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave on defrost mode if you’re short on time.
• Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of milk if needed to return creaminess after freezing.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup that might help you enjoy this recipe even more!

Can I use other vegetables in Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup dairy-free?

To create a dairy-free version, substitute regular milk with almond milk or coconut milk and use vegan cheese instead of cheddar.

Can I prepare Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply add all ingredients (except for the thickening mixture) into your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add your dairy (or alternatives) at the end!

What type of cheese works best in Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Sharp cheddar cheese gives this soup its rich flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different taste!

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone will love. I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe as much as I do—it’s perfect for cozy evenings or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead. Dive right in and savor every spoonful!