Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal, look no further than our Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup recipe. This soup has a special place in my heart because it brings back memories of cozy evenings spent with family, gathered around the table. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for busy weeknights or chilly weekends when you want something hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in those nutritious veggies that everyone loves!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time. Perfect for novice cooks and busy parents!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor. It’s a great way to get them to eat their vegetables without any fuss.
• Make Ahead Convenience: This soup stores beautifully! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cheddar, broccoli, and potatoes creates a rich and satisfying flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is a breeze! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry or fridge.

• 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
• 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 parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Some Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or turkey for an extra hearty meal.
• Go Green: Toss in some spinach or kale along with the broccoli for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick!
• Creamy Alternative: For a lighter option, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt.

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. This will help build the base flavor for your soup and add richness.

Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies

Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Sauté these together for about 3–4 minutes until they soften. This step is crucial as it brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your soup.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next, stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds. The aroma will fill your kitchen—garlic always adds such a lovely flavor!

Step 4: Combine Broth and Potatoes

Pour in low-sodium chicken broth along with your cubed potatoes. Sprinkle in dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Cook the Broccoli

Stir in chopped broccoli florets and cook for an additional five minutes until they’re bright green and tender but still crisp. This helps maintain their vibrant color!

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook while stirring constantly for about one minute. This forms a roux that will thicken your soup beautifully.

Step 7: Add Milk Slowly

Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously until no lumps remain. Keep cooking until the mixture thickens slightly; then stir in heavy cream before removing from heat.

Step 8: Combine Everything Together

Pour your creamy mixture into the vegetable soup pot. Give it all a good stir so everything is well combined.

Step 9: Mix in Cheese

Remove from heat again and add shredded sharp cheddar cheese along with finely shredded parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth—you’ll want to dive right into this deliciousness!

Step 10: Serve Warm

Now it’s time to serve up your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup! Ladle it into bowls while it’s warm, grab some crusty bread if you like, and enjoy every comforting bite.

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Making soup is all about technique and the right ingredients, and with these tips, you can elevate your cheddar broccoli potato soup to new heights!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also add a vibrant color and texture to your soup. Look for crisp broccoli and firm potatoes at the market.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt and pepper and adjust to your taste as the soup cooks. This ensures you don’t oversalt and allows the flavors to develop beautifully.

• Blend for Creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, consider blending a portion of the soup after cooking. This can create a creamier base while still retaining some chunky bits of veggies.

• Experiment with Cheese: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for added flavor depth. Just remember to choose varieties that melt well!

• Make it Ahead: Soups often taste better the next day as the flavors meld together. Consider making a big batch and storing leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving your cheddar broccoli potato soup can be just as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can turn this comforting dish into a meal that feels special.

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 delightful crunch, adding texture and contrast to each spoonful.
• Extra Cheese: A handful of extra shredded cheddar or parmesan on top can make for an appealing presentation while enhancing that cheesy goodness we all love.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. The satisfying crunch pairs beautifully with the creamy texture.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with fresh greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup, making for a wholesome meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring additional flavors to your table. Their caramelization enhances their natural sweetness, which complements the soup perfectly.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is not only delicious but also adds a comforting touch to your meal. It’s great for soaking up every last bit of that flavorful broth!

Now that you know how to make and serve this delightful cheddar broccoli potato soup, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Enjoy every warm bowlful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup.

Can I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with additional milk or a plant-based milk alternative like almond or oat milk for a lighter version.

How can I adjust the flavor of my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Feel free to add more herbs like parsley or chives, or spices such as cayenne pepper for a kick. You can also experiment with different kinds of cheese!

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this soup. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking until heated through and tender.

Is this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not include any meat products.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this cozy and creamy Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup! It’s a wonderful dish that brings warmth and comfort on chilly days. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, I’m sure you’ll love every spoonful. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to try this recipe — it’s truly special!

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