Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish that brings the family together, this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is just what you need. This soup has a delightful mix of creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and vibrant broccoli. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying, or for family gatherings where everyone can gather around a warm bowl of goodness. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become a regular in your home!

This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and the ingredients are all wholesome, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in about 40 minutes, so you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy flavor and colorful veggies, making it a hit with everyone.
• Make Ahead Convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, so you can prepare it ahead of time for those busy days.
• Hearty and Filling: With potatoes and cheese, this soup is satisfying enough to be a meal on its own.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to use fresh or frozen broccoli, depending on what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this comforting bowl of goodness:

For the Soup Base

• 1-2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken stock

For Thickening & Creaminess

• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 cup milk

For Flavor & Texture

• 2 large potatoes (peeled and chopped into ½-inch cubes)
• 16 ounces broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground pepper

Variations

What I love about this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have at home. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick!
• Swap the cheese: Try using different types of cheese like gouda or mozzarella for unique flavors.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.

How to Make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Melt one to two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the diced onions until they begin to soften—about 3 minutes. This step is crucial because sautéing releases their natural sweetness, which builds the flavor base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Carrots and Spices

Now add your diced carrots along with salt and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to get tender. This adds color and nutrition while enhancing the overall taste of your soup.

Step 3: Incorporate Garlic

Next up, stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Garlic adds depth and aroma that will make your kitchen smell amazing!

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Stock

Now it’s time to add those chopped potatoes and chicken stock. Cover your pot and bring everything to a simmer. Let it simmer for about ten minutes until the potatoes start softening.

Step 5: Mix in Broccoli

After ten minutes, add your broccoli florets into the pot. Continue simmering until both the broccoli and potatoes are fork-tender—this should take another ten minutes.

Step 6: Thicken Your Soup

In a small bowl, stir cornstarch into milk until smooth. Then gently stir this mixture into your hot soup. This step will give your soup that creamy texture we all crave.

Step 7: Melt in Cheese

Finally, add shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the pot and stir until melted through. The gooey cheesy goodness will take your soup from good to absolutely delightful!

Step 8: Serve Up!

Ladle your delicious Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup into bowls and enjoy! It’s perfect with some crusty bread on the side or just on its own as a hearty meal.

This recipe truly captures comfort food at its best! Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Making this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and potatoes enhance the flavor and texture of the soup, making it taste vibrant and delicious.

• Adjust the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese! While sharp cheddar is classic, gouda or pepper jack can add unique flavors that take your soup to the next level.

• Blend for creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, consider blending a portion of the soup using an immersion blender. This creates a creamy base while keeping some chunks for heartiness.

• Spice it up: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give your soup a warm kick.

• Make it ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when reheated.

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Serving this soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives not only adds color but also a mild onion flavor that complements the soup wonderfully.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy texture of the soup.
• Shredded cheese: A little extra cheese on top right before serving adds visual appeal and rich flavor.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A slice of crusty sourdough or whole grain bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. It adds a satisfying texture and makes for hearty meal.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Consider using fresh greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes for freshness.
• Vegetable sticks with hummus: Pair crunchy carrots and celery sticks with hummus for a refreshing side that complements the warm soup without overpowering it.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: Classic pairing alert! A gooey grilled cheese sandwich alongside your soup creates a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Enjoy crafting your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup, and remember—it’s all about making joyful memories around the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day! You can easily whip up a big batch and store it for later enjoyment.

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.
• If your soup thickens too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down to room temperature, then pour it into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date before freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. For best quality, consume within one month.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may want to add some milk or broth if it’s too thick.
• Alternatively, you can microwave the soup in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I use different kinds of cheese in this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gouda or Monterey Jack can add unique flavors to your soup while still keeping that creamy texture.

How long does this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s cooled down before storing!

Can I make this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter and use unsweetened plant-based milk instead of regular milk. Additionally, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What can I serve with Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with crackers for a crunchy contrast!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup! It’s not just a dish; it’s comfort in a bowl that brings warmth and happiness to any table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Happy cooking!