Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal, you’ve come to the right place! This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is one of my favorite recipes because it’s not only creamy and flavorful but also filled with wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying or for family gatherings when you want to impress your loved ones with a hearty dish. Plus, who can resist the delightful combination of cheddar cheese, fresh broccoli, and tender potatoes?

This soup warms the soul and is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just under an hour, making it a fantastic option for those hectic days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors of cheese and veggies, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat it when you’re ready to eat!
• Comforting Flavor: With its creamy texture and savory taste, this soup is like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will bring this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup to life! You probably have many of these in your pantry already.

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
• 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 how flexible it is! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little kick.
• Swap the cheese: Use a different type of cheese like gouda or mozzarella if cheddar isn’t your favorite.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute plant-based milk and vegan cheese to make this soup dairy-free!

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté these vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. This step builds a flavorful base for our 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 everything to a boil before reducing the heat. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Incorporate Broccoli

After the potatoes are soft, add in those vibrant broccoli florets. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender but still crisp.

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. Slowly pour in milk while whisking until there are no lumps left. Cook until it thickens up nicely before stirring in heavy cream; then remove from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Pour that luscious creamy mixture into your pot of vegetable goodness. Stir well to combine everything evenly! Remove from heat once again before adding both cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix until melted through; this creates that irresistible cheesy flavor.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Ladle your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup into bowls while it’s warm. Enjoy every spoonful of its richness—it’s pure comfort food!

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Making the perfect cheddar broccoli potato soup is all about enhancing flavors and textures. Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli, crisp carrots, and fragrant garlic will elevate the taste of your soup, making it more vibrant and flavorful.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer after adding the milk mixture. For a thinner consistency, simply add a bit more broth or milk until you reach your desired texture.

• Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar adds a beautiful flavor, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for an extra layer of taste and creaminess.

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give your soup a little kick. This can create a delightful contrast to the creamy base.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup actually tastes better the next day! Make it ahead and refrigerate; just be sure to reheat gently to maintain that creamy texture.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving your cheddar broccoli potato soup can be just as fun as making it! A few thoughtful touches can turn this comforting bowl into something truly special.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or green onions: Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and an added crunch.
• Croutons: Homemade croutons add texture and a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy soup perfectly.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can enhance flavor and appearance, giving your dish an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread (like sourdough or baguette) is perfect for dipping into the rich soup, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Simple green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: Who doesn’t love grilled cheese? Pairing this classic with your soup makes for an ultimate comfort meal that kids and adults alike will love.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasting seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots brings out their natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the soup.

Enjoy crafting your own version of this cheddar broccoli potato soup! It’s not just about feeding the hunger; it’s about sharing warmth with every spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch in advance, making it a great option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

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 containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Consider adding some extra cheese when reheating for added flavor!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish!

Can I use other types of cheese in Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives it a wonderful flavor, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like gouda or Monterey Jack for a different twist.

How do I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup vegan?

To make this soup vegan-friendly, substitute butter with plant-based butter, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and replace the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or any non-dairy milk. Additionally, you can choose vegan cheese options.

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

Yes! This soup is quite versatile. You can add vegetables such as cauliflower, spinach, or even corn to enhance its nutritional value and flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. Always check labels on your broth and cheese to ensure they are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s not only comforting but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Don’t hesitate to get creative and customize it to your taste. Happy cooking!