Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms you from the inside out, you’ve come to the right place! This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is a delightful hug in a bowl, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying. It combines the vibrant flavors of fresh broccoli and tender potatoes with a creamy cheese base that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

This soup is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, it fits perfectly into any occasion. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies without anyone even noticing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a warm meal in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this cheesy soup. It’s an excellent way to get little ones to eat their greens.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers throughout the week.
• Rich and creamy flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese with fresh vegetables creates a comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or spices to make this recipe your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is simple! You’ll find that these wholesome items are likely already in your pantry or fridge.

For the Soup

• 1-2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken stock
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 cup milk
• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrition without compromising flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you love a little heat in your soup.
• Swap the cheese: Try using gouda or pepper jack cheese for a unique twist on flavors.
• Creamy alternative: Substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for an even richer texture.

How to Make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt one to two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the diced onion until it starts to soften, about three minutes. This step is important because sautéing releases the onions’ natural sweetness, which lays the foundation for your soup’s flavor!

Step 2: Add Carrots and Garlic

Next, add the diced carrots along with salt and pepper. Cook these together for another three to four minutes until they begin to soften. Then stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Garlic adds depth to our soup and makes everything smell amazing!

Step 3: Incorporate Potatoes and Chicken Stock

Now it’s time to add those chopped potatoes along with four cups of chicken stock. Cover the pot and bring everything to a simmer. Simmer for about ten minutes until the potatoes start getting tender.

Step 4: Add Broccoli

After ten minutes, toss in the broccoli florets and continue simmering. We want both the broccoli and potatoes tender—this should take around ten more minutes. A fork should easily pierce through those potatoes when they’re ready.

Step 5: Thicken the Soup

In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch with one cup of milk until smooth. Stir this mixture into your hot soup; this will help thicken up that creamy goodness we all love so much!

Step 6: Add Cheese and Serve

Finally, sprinkle in one-and-a-half cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the pot. Stir until melted and beautifully incorporated. Now it’s time to serve! Ladle this creamy delight into bowls, enjoy it warm, and watch how quickly everyone asks for more!

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Creating the perfect Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your cooking game!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh broccoli and potatoes when possible. Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of your soup, making every spoonful more enjoyable.

• Adjust the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese. While sharp cheddar adds a robust flavor, you can also try gouda or mozzarella for a creamier consistency.

• Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a creamier soup, consider using an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup. This gives you a silky texture while still retaining some chunks for character.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste the soup before serving. Adjusting the salt and pepper at the end ensures that your flavors are balanced just right.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers. The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great make-ahead meal!

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Serving your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup creatively can make all the difference in enjoying this comforting dish. Here are some fun ideas to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of freshness and color.
• Croutons: Add some crunchy croutons for texture; they provide a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of extra shredded cheese on top adds visual appeal and an extra cheesy kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup and adds a savory element to the meal.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic pairing of grilled cheese offers another layer of warmth and comfort that complements the flavors of your soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like carrots or bell peppers add both color and nutrition to your meal while harmonizing beautifully with the soup’s flavors.

Now you’re ready to dive into this deliciously cheesy and hearty Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup! Each bowl is bound to bring warmth not only to your tummy but also to your soul. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup recipe is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes great but also stores well, making it an ideal dish to prepare in advance for busy weeks.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When reheating, stir well and add a splash of milk if the soup has thickened too much.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious soup!

Can I make this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute non-dairy milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this soup dairy-free while still enjoying its creamy texture.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like paprika or nutmeg, or incorporating sautéed mushrooms or leeks for a richer taste.

Can I use frozen broccoli in the Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe and saves you time on prep. Just add it during the last ten minutes of cooking as directed.

What can I serve with my Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal!

Is this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe suitable for kids?

Yes! This soup is kid-friendly and packed with nutrients. Its creamy consistency and cheesy flavor make it appealing to little ones.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, full of flavors that bring comfort to any table. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with loved ones, it’s sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!