Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal, you’ve found it in this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup recipe! This bowl of goodness is not just a winter warmer; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The creamy texture, combined with the vibrant broccoli and sharp cheddar, makes it a favorite in my home. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of this soup simmering on your stove to make everyone feel at ease.

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is a delightful way to sneak in some veggies while savoring every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe hits all the right notes. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love making this soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, even novice cooks can whip up this hearty soup.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the familiar flavors of cheese and broccoli in every spoonful.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve—perfect for meal prep!
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of potatoes, broccoli, and cheddar creates a creamy comfort food that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is simple. These wholesome components come together to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base

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

For the Creamy Mixture

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

For Garnishing

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

Variations

What I love about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add more veggies: Throw in some chopped spinach or kale for an extra boost of greens.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you’re looking to reduce calories.
• Change the cheese: Try using Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

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

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, sprinkle in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then stir in chicken broth, cubed potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bringing this mixture to a boil enhances the flavors before we let everything simmer.

Step 3: Simmer Away

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 15 minutes until those potatoes are nice and tender. After that time has passed, add in your broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 5 minutes so they become vibrant green and tender but still crisp.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about a minute while stirring constantly—this creates a roux that will thicken our soup beautifully! Slowly pour in milk while whisking until smooth with no lumps.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Cook this creamy mixture until it thickens slightly before stirring in heavy cream. Once you’ve achieved that luxurious consistency, carefully pour it into your soup pot with all those lovely veggies. Stir well to combine everything.

Step 6: Add Cheese Bliss

Remove your pot from heat and mix in shredded sharp cheddar cheese along with parmesan until melted and gooey—trust me; this is where the magic happens!

Step 7: Serve Warm

You’re almost there! Give it one last stir before serving warm bowls of this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup to family or friends. Enjoy each spoonful while knowing you’ve created something truly special!

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Making soup can be an art, and a few simple tips can elevate your cheddar broccoli potato soup to a whole new level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors and textures to your soup. Look for bright green broccoli and firm potatoes for the best results.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply blend a portion of it after cooking. This creates a creamy texture without needing additional cream. Plus, it’s a fun way to customize your dish!

• Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for different flavor profiles. Each cheese brings its own unique taste and creaminess.

• Season gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then adjust as needed. This allows you to control the seasoning better and prevents over-salting right from the start.

• Let it rest: Allowing your soup to sit for about 10-15 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s worth the wait for an even tastier meal!

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving your cheddar broccoli potato soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this comforting bowl of goodness.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Sprinkle some chopped chives on top for a fresh bite and a pop of color.
• Croutons: Add crispy croutons for texture; they provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
• Shredded cheese: A handful of shredded cheese on top just before serving melts perfectly into the warm broth, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavor of garlic bread complements the creamy soup beautifully, making each bite even more satisfying.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal, balancing out the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional nutrition and flavor diversity, creating a hearty dining experience.
• Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair perfectly with this savory dish, adding a delightful sweetness that contrasts well with the soup’s richness.

Enjoy your cozy meal with loved ones! This cheddar broccoli potato soup is bound to become a favorite in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious soup.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label the containers with the date; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To avoid separation, consider freezing without cream or cheese, adding them after reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions; cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

If you have questions about making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use frozen broccoli for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient option. Just add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking as directed. It will work perfectly!

How can I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup healthier?

You can opt for low-fat milk instead of whole milk and reduce or eliminate the heavy cream. Additionally, using less cheese can also lighten up this dish while still keeping it delicious.

What can I serve with Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. You could also enjoy it with a side of crackers for added crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup brings warmth and comfort to your table. It’s a delightful recipe that combines wholesome ingredients into a creamy bowl of goodness! Enjoy making it and sharing it with family and friends—there’s nothing quite like gathering around a warm pot of soup. Happy cooking!