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 is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings or busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet simple. It’s a family favorite in my house, bringing everyone together around the dinner table, and I know it will do the same for you. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying the rich flavors of cheddar and creamy potatoes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This cheddar broccoli potato soup comes together in just about an hour, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love this creamy soup! The cheesy goodness makes it appealing to even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or a side; it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to cozy date nights at home.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Leftovers are just as delicious! You can easily prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it when needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will make this soup so comforting and tasty. You might already have most of these items in your pantry!

• 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 things about this cheddar broccoli potato soup is how flexible it is! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
• Creamy Swap: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream.
• Change Up the Cheese: Use gouda or pepper jack instead of cheddar for a different twist on flavor.

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Then add chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. This step is essential because it builds the foundation of flavors that will shine through in your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Garlic adds depth to your soup’s flavor profile. Then stir in low-sodium chicken broth, 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: Cook the Broccoli

Once the potatoes are ready, add chopped broccoli florets to the pot. Cook them for around five minutes until tender but still vibrant green. This not only enhances the color but also keeps some crunchiness in your soup.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a separate saucepan, melt any remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute while stirring constantly. This creates a roux that helps thicken your soup later on.

Step 5: Create Your Soup Base

Slowly add milk to your roux while whisking until no lumps remain. Keep cooking until it’s thickened up nicely—this brings that lovely creamy texture we all adore.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Remove your thickened mixture from heat and stir it into the vegetable broth mixture on low heat. Finally, mix in shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted into that glorious gooeyness we love!

Step 7: Serve Warm

Serve your cheddar broccoli potato soup warm with crusty bread or crackers on the side. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

This recipe serves six hearty bowls of pure comfort food goodness—perfect for sharing with family or friends!

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Making this scrumptious cheddar broccoli potato soup is a breeze, especially with these helpful tips!

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and texture, making your soup taste homemade and vibrant.
• Adjust cheese to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of cheddar and parmesan based on your preference. The more cheese you add, the creamier and richer the soup will be!
• Blend for a creamier texture: For an ultra-smooth consistency, blend a portion of the soup before adding the cheese. This technique gives a delightful creaminess without needing extra cream.
• Customize with spices: Experiment with additional seasonings like paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a dash of nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile of your soup.
• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to 3 days—just reheat gently on the stove!

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving this hearty cheddar broccoli potato soup can turn a simple meal into something truly special! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or green onions: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Extra shredded cheese: A little extra cheese on top not only looks inviting but also enhances the cheesy goodness in every bite.

Side Dishes

• Freshly baked bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or soft dinner rolls is perfect for dipping into your velvety soup.
• Garden salad: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, adding freshness and balance to your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and add a lovely texture contrast alongside the creamy soup.
• Stuffed baked potatoes: For those who love potatoes, serving baked potatoes stuffed with sour cream or chives pairs wonderfully with this comforting dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set for an unforgettable mealtime experience that everyone will enjoy! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, saving you precious moments on busy days. Let’s dive into how to store this hearty soup properly.

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 to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool down and portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm.
• If reheating from frozen, do so over low heat and add a little milk if it thickens too much.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this comforting dish, here are some common questions!

Can I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace dairy cheese with a vegan cheese option.

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

If you prefer a thicker soup, simply let it simmer longer after adding the thickened mixture. For a thinner consistency, stir in additional broth or milk until desired texture is achieved.

What can I serve with Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, salads, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.

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

Definitely! Feel free to include other veggies like cauliflower, spinach, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings family and friends together. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to share your experience or any personal touches you made along the way. Happy cooking!