Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a warm, hearty meal that feels like a big hug in a bowl, our Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is just what you need. This recipe has been a favorite in my home for years, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The creamy texture and savory flavors make it a dish everyone loves. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, so you can spend more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen.

What makes this cheddar broccoli potato soup special is not just its deliciousness, but also how it brings people together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself after a long day, this soup hits the spot every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have this comforting soup on the table in under an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy goodness packed with veggies.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and simply heat it up when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand for a personal twist.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy potatoes creates an irresistible taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful dish.

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; about 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 the Cheesy Finish

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

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk and use plant-based cheese.
• Change the Cheese: Use different types of cheese like gouda or mozzarella for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt half of the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, add your chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté these veggies for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. This step builds a flavorful base that enhances the overall taste of 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 your cubed potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat. Cover your pot and let it simmer for 15 minutes until those potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Incorporate Broccoli

After your potatoes have softened up nicely, add in the fresh broccoli florets. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they’re bright green and tender but still crisp. This keeps your soup vibrant and adds that beautiful pop of color!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Mixture

In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about a minute while stirring constantly—this helps thicken our soup later on! Gradually add milk while whisking until there are no lumps left. Cook this mixture until it thickens up nicely before stirring in heavy cream off the heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour your thickened mixture into the pot with the soup and stir well to combine all those wonderful flavors. Finally, remove from heat and mix in both types of cheese until they melt into that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Serve Up Your Delicious Soup

Ladle your cheddar broccoli potato soup into bowls while it’s warm. Enjoy every last drop of this comforting dish—there’s nothing quite like it!

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Making a comforting bowl of cheddar broccoli potato soup is easier than you think, and with these tips, you’ll ensure it’s absolutely delicious!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also improve the nutritional value of your soup. Opt for vibrant broccoli and firm potatoes for the best results.

• Adjust thickness to your liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply blend a portion of it before adding the cheeses. This creates a creamy texture without needing extra cream.

• Don’t rush the sautéing process: Taking your time to properly sauté the vegetables allows their natural sweetness to develop, which adds depth and flavor to your soup.

• Experiment with cheese varieties: While sharp cheddar is traditional, mixing in other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack can offer delightful new flavors and make your soup even more exciting!

• Season gradually: Instead of adding all the salt and pepper at once, season throughout the cooking process. This allows you to adjust flavors step by step for the perfect balance.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving your cheddar broccoli potato soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to help you present this cozy dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the soup.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a crunchy contrast that enhances each spoonful.
• Extra cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar on top just before serving makes for an inviting and indulgent finishing touch.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into your soup. Its texture pairs wonderfully with smooth, creamy broth.
• Garden salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup while adding freshness to your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, bring additional flavors and nutrients that complement this hearty dish nicely.
• Stuffed baked potatoes: For a filling option, serve baked potatoes stuffed with sour cream or yogurt alongside your soup for an extra layer of comfort.

Enjoying your cheddar broccoli potato soup is all about making it personal. With these tips and serving suggestions, every bowl will be a delightful experience!

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 it to an airtight container or divide it into individual portions.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Got questions about this comforting dish? We’ve got you covered!

Can I make this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute dairy milk with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk, and use vegan cheese instead of cheddar and parmesan.

How can I thicken my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender. Alternatively, you can add more flour during the cooking process.

What can I serve with Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some homemade garlic knots for a complete meal.

Can I add other vegetables to my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Yes! Feel free to toss in vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort on chilly days. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, I hope you find joy in making it as much as I do. Gather your ingredients and enjoy creating this delightful dish; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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