Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness that warms your soul, look no further than this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe. There’s something magical about the combination of creamy cheese, hearty potatoes, and vibrant broccoli that makes this dish a family favorite. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy gathering with loved ones, this soup brings everyone together around the table.

I love making this soup on busy weeknights when I crave something hearty yet quick to whip up. It’s satisfying enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with some crusty bread. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the creamy texture and cheesy flavor—it’s sure to please everyone!
• Make Ahead: You can easily prepare this soup in advance and reheat for an even quicker dinner solution later in the week.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies like broccoli and carrots, this soup is both delicious and nourishing.
• Comfort Food Vibes: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of cheesy soup on a cold day—it feels like a hug in a bowl!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup. You probably have most of these in your kitchen already! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base

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

For Thickening and Creaminess

• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 cup milk

For Flavor and Texture

• 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! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little kick.
• Cheese Swap: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute butter with olive oil, use vegetable broth, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese for a plant-based version!

How to Make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Melt one to two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté until they begin to soften—this takes about three minutes. Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Cook the Carrots

Next, add the diced carrots along with salt and pepper. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. The carrots add not only color but also natural sweetness that balances perfectly with the other ingredients.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds. Garlic adds aromatic depth to your soup; just be careful not to let it burn.

Step 4: Combine Potatoes and Broth

Now it’s time to add the chopped potatoes and chicken broth. Cover the pot and bring everything to a simmer—this should take about ten minutes. Simmering allows all those amazing flavors to meld together while cooking the potatoes until tender.

Step 5: Add Broccoli

Once your potatoes are fork-tender, stir in the broccoli florets. Keep simmering until both broccoli and potatoes are tender—this should take another 10 minutes. Fresh or frozen broccoli works well here; either way, you’ll get that beautiful green hue!

Step 6: Thicken Your Soup

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch into milk until smooth. Stir this mixture into your hot soup—it will help thicken it up nicely without any lumps!

Step 7: Add Cheese

Finally, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted. This step transforms your soup into an indulgent delight!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your delicious Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup into bowls, serve with some crusty bread if you like, and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

This recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s just a quiet night at home or serving friends during game night!

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Making this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is a breeze, and with these helpful tips, you’ll take your soup to the next level!

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh broccoli and carrots add a vibrant flavor and crunch that frozen veggies may lack. They enhance the overall taste and texture of your soup.
• Grate your cheese: Grating cheese yourself instead of using pre-shredded varieties ensures it melts smoothly into the soup. This creates a creamier texture without any added anti-caking agents.
• Adjust thickness to your liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply add more cornstarch mixed with milk. For a thinner consistency, feel free to add extra chicken stock until you reach your desired texture.
• Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for an unexpected kick that complements the creamy cheese well. It can elevate the flavor profile and make the dish more exciting!
• Make it ahead of time: This soup saves beautifully! Make it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Presenting your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup beautifully can make every spoonful even more enjoyable. Here are some simple ideas to elevate your serving style.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or green onions: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and a mild onion flavor that brightens up each bowl.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons add delightful crunch and contrast to the creamy soup, making every bite interesting.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfect for dipping, garlic bread is warm and buttery, complementing the rich flavors of the soup wonderfully.
• Simple garden salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup while adding freshness.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: Classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with any soup! The gooey melted cheese inside crispy bread makes for an irresistible combination.
• Roasted vegetable platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal roasted veggies not only adds nutrition but also enhances the meal’s visual appeal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re ready to enjoy a delightful bowl of Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup that will warm both body and soul!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is perfect for meal prep! It holds up beautifully in the fridge and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

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 and date your containers for easy organization.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For reheating from the fridge, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming or use a microwave on low power, stirring every few minutes.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common ones you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make it vegan by substituting butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and opting for a plant-based milk and cheese substitute.

How can I adjust the thickness of my Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

To thicken your soup, add more cornstarch mixed with water. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out with additional broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

What other vegetables can I add to my Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?

Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or kale to enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Is this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent option for meal prepping for busy weeks ahead.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Definitely! While sharp cheddar gives great flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or Monterey jack for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that’s not only hearty but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or looking for something simple yet satisfying, this soup has got you covered. So gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!