Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is here to save the day! I can’t tell you how many times this comforting recipe has come to my rescue on busy weeknights or during family gatherings. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with wholesome veggies that make it not just delicious but also satisfying. Whether you’re cozying up on the couch or hosting friends for dinner, this soup is sure to bring smiles all around.

There’s something incredibly special about stirring a pot of homemade soup. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying every spoonful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you need a meal fast.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and vibrant broccoli, making it a sure hit at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve—perfect for meal prep!
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and fresh vegetables creates a rich taste that warms the soul.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup. You’ll find everything you need right here, and trust me, each item plays a vital role in creating that perfect bowl of comfort.

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

For the Cheese Topping

• 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 Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
• Make it Spicy: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat in your soup.
• Use Different Cheeses: Swap out sharp cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
• Go Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy milk with almond milk and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a delicious vegan option.

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

Melt 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 is key because it brings out their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Garlic adds depth to your soup’s flavor profile! 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 cook for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Incorporate Broccoli

After your potatoes are nice and soft, add in those beautiful broccoli florets. Cook them for another 5 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant green. This veggie addition not only boosts nutrition but also adds lovely color to your soup!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Mixture

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining butter. Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute while stirring constantly—this helps eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps; cook until thickened. Stir in heavy cream before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Now comes the best part! Pour that creamy mixture into your pot of soup and stir well to combine everything beautifully. Remove from heat again before adding both shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese. Stir until melted into that luscious gooeyness we all love!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup warm with some crusty bread on the side if you’d like! It’s perfect for dipping while enjoying every creamy bite. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Making a creamy and flavorful cheddar broccoli potato soup is all about the little details. Here are some pro tips to elevate your cooking experience and ensure the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality cheese can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. Look for vibrant broccoli and sharp cheddar for a delightful contrast in taste.

• Adjust thickness to preference: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply add more flour when making the roux or let it simmer longer to reduce. For a lighter consistency, you can add more milk or broth.

• Blend for creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, consider blending part of the soup after cooking. This will create a creamy base while leaving some chunks of potatoes and broccoli for added interest.

• Experiment with spices: While thyme adds a lovely note, feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley for extra depth. A dash of nutmeg can also bring warmth to the flavors.

• Make it ahead: This soup stores well in the refrigerator and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat gently on the stove and add a splash more milk if needed.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving your cheddar broccoli potato soup is just as important as preparing it! A thoughtful presentation can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas:

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
• Croutons: Crunchy homemade or store-bought croutons provide a delightful textural contrast against the creamy base.
• Extra cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar on top right before serving adds richness and makes the dish look extra inviting.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: This classic side is perfect for dipping into your soup, offering a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with each spoonful.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup and adds freshness to your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower make for a colorful, healthy side option that complements the flavors of your soup.
• Quinoa salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a squeeze of lime brings an exciting twist to your dinner table while keeping things hearty yet light.

Now you’re ready to serve up this comforting cheddar broccoli potato soup with style! Enjoy every warm bowlful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

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 the container with the date, so you know when it was made.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down entirely before freezing.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label each container with the date and contents.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup:

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

Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles. Just keep in mind that melting characteristics may vary.

How can I thicken my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply add more flour when preparing your roux or blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in. This will give your soup a creamy texture without losing any flavor!

Is this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup suitable for freezing?

Yes! This soup freezes well. Just ensure that it’s cooled completely before storing it in freezer-safe containers. Remember not to freeze it for too long—ideally within three months.

What can I serve alongside my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. You could also serve it as a starter before your main course!

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me on this delicious journey to creating a heartwarming bowl of Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup! This recipe is not only comforting but also packed with flavor and nutrients that will please everyone at your table. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dish as much as I do. Don’t hesitate to share your experience and let me know how yours turned out—you might inspire someone else to whip up their own batch!