Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal, you’ve come to the right place! My Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is a family favorite that warms the heart and fills the belly. This soup is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The blend of creamy cheddar, fresh broccoli, and tender potatoes creates a delightful harmony of flavors that everyone will love.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a bowl of happiness ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This cheddar broccoli potato soup comes together quickly, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you need comfort food fast.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy this creamy soup, so it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this soup in advance and store it in the fridge for busy days. Just reheat and serve!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and fresh veggies creates a rich taste that keeps you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You probably have most of them in your kitchen already! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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, to taste
• 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! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
• Make it hearty: Add cooked quinoa or rice to make it even more filling.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking for an extra kick.
• Change the cheese: Swap out cheddar for another cheese like gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start by melting half of the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Adding the carrots, celery, and onion will create a beautiful base for your soup. Sauté these vegetables until they soften, about three to four minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another thirty seconds. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the veggies!

Step 2: Add Broth and Potatoes

Next, stir in your low-sodium chicken broth along with the peeled and cubed russet potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat, covering it, and letting it simmer for fifteen minutes. This allows the potatoes to become tender while absorbing all those wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Incorporate Broccoli

After fifteen minutes, add in those lovely chopped broccoli florets. Cook them for about five minutes until they are tender but still vibrant green. This step ensures that your broccoli retains its nutrients while adding color to your soup.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in your flour and cook for about one minute while stirring constantly—this helps thicken your soup later on! Slowly pour in the milk while whisking until there are no lumps left. Continue cooking until this mixture thickens up nicely before stirring in heavy cream.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour your creamy mixture into the pot with the vegetables and stir well until combined. Remove from heat and mix in both shredded sharp cheddar cheese and parmesan until melted into gooey perfection.

Step 6: Serve with Love

Your cheddar broccoli potato soup is now ready! Serve it warm with crusty bread or a side salad if you like. Enjoy every spoonful of this deliciousness with friends or family—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Making a comforting bowl of Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup can be a breeze with just a few extra tips. Here are some handy pointers to elevate your soup-making game!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and carrots add vibrant flavor and nutrients, making your soup taste even better. Frozen veggies may work in a pinch, but nothing beats the freshness of seasonal produce.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply mash some of the potatoes after cooking to achieve that creamy consistency. Alternatively, feel free to add more milk or cream if you like it on the thinner side.

• Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is amazing, mixing in other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack can create a unique flavor profile. Each cheese brings its distinct taste, giving your soup an exciting twist!

• Add extra veggies: For added nutrition and flavor, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach or cauliflower. They blend well with the existing ingredients and enhance the overall texture.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge for a delicious meal ready to go when you are.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup can turn a simple dish into an inviting meal. Here are some delightful ideas to make your presentation shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or green onions: A sprinkle of these adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness on top of each bowl.
• Croutons: Adding crunchy croutons provides texture contrast and makes your soup feel more gourmet.
• Extra cheese: A little grated cheese on top right before serving allows it to melt slightly, enhancing flavor while looking appealing.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The perfect companion to any soup! Toasted garlic bread is great for dipping and complements the cheesy richness of the soup.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the hearty nature of the soup while adding refreshing crunch.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring an earthy element that pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup, creating a well-rounded meal experience.
• Grilled cheese sandwich: Kids (and adults!) love this classic pairing—crispy grilled cheese alongside the warm soup creates comfort food perfection.

Now that you’re equipped with these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to enjoy a bowl of homemade Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This cheddar broccoli potato soup is not just a delightful dish to enjoy right away; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily store leftovers or prepare it in advance for those busy weeknights.

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.
• To maintain the best flavor and texture, consider keeping the cheese separate if you have leftovers.

Freezing

• Cool the soup thoroughly before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, allow to thaw in the fridge first or use low power settings in the microwave.
• You may need to add a splash of milk or broth while reheating if the soup becomes too thick.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making cheddar broccoli potato soup.

Can I make cheddar broccoli potato soup without cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with additional milk or a plant-based milk alternative to keep it lighter while still creamy.

How can I make my cheddar broccoli potato soup healthier?

You can reduce calories by using less butter or opting for low-fat dairy options. Adding more vegetables or using whole grain flour can also enhance its nutritional value.

What pairs well with cheddar broccoli potato soup?

This hearty soup goes wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some homemade croutons for added crunch!

Can I use fresh broccoli for this cheddar broccoli potato soup?

Yes! Fresh broccoli works beautifully in this recipe and will provide a vibrant flavor and texture that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting cheddar broccoli potato soup! It’s truly special not just because of its rich flavors but also because it brings warmth and togetherness to any meal. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me. Happy cooking!