This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is creamy, comforting, and utterly delicious. Perfect for chilly days or family gatherings, this soup is sure to satisfy even the fussiest of eaters. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a delightful meal that warms your soul and fills your belly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli creates a satisfying flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a side alongside sandwiches or salads.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and nutrients, this soup is both nourishing and delicious.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals later on.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to streamline the cooking process. Having the right equipment makes it easier to prepare this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking all the ingredients together evenly without overcrowding.
- Medium saucepan: Needed for creating the creamy roux that thickens the soup.
- Whisk: Helps prevent lumps when combining flour with milk for a smooth consistency.
Ingredients
This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is creamy, comforting, and utterly delicious. It’s sure to please even the fussiest of eaters. Grab a bowl and get cozy!
Vegetables
- 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 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)
Liquids & Seasonings
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Dairy & Cheese
- 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)
How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1 1/2 Tbsp of the butter. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften. Then, add in minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Broth and Potatoes
Stir in the chicken broth along with cubed potatoes and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium. Cover with a lid and cook for about 15 minutes. After that time, stir in broccoli florets and cook for another 5 minutes or until all vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Create a Roux
Meanwhile, melt the remaining 4 Tbsp of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour while cooking it for about one minute, whisking constantly. Gradually pour in milk while whisking vigorously until no lumps remain.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Continue stirring until the mixture begins to thicken; then stir in heavy cream. Remove from heat once all veggies are tender. Pour this creamy mixture into the soup pot and stir well. Finally, remove from heat again and mix in cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese until melted. Serve warm!
How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
Serving this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is all about enhancing the delicious flavors while making it visually appealing. Here are some suggestions to elevate your soup experience.
With Crusty Bread
- A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf pairs perfectly with this creamy soup. The bread’s texture complements the smoothness of the soup, making each bite delightful.
Topped with Crispy Bacon
- Adding crispy bacon bits on top adds a savory crunch that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the soup. It’s a great way to introduce a smoky flavor.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. These herbs enhance the taste and add a vibrant touch to the dish.
Served in Bread Bowls
- For a fun twist, serve your soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks impressive but also allows you to enjoy every last drop of soup as you eat the bowl!
With Shredded Cheese
- Top your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup with extra shredded cheese just before serving. As it melts, it creates a rich layer of flavor that cheese lovers will adore.
How to Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
To make your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.
Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli will provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen. Make sure it is bright green and firm for optimal results.
Adjust seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a more personalized flavor profile.
Blend for creaminess: If you prefer an ultra-smooth texture, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender before adding cheese.
Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is classic, try adding other cheeses like gouda or Monterey jack for unique flavors and creaminess.
Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove for best results without compromising texture.
Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here’s a list of perfect accompaniments.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the richness of the soup beautifully.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess that balances the creamy texture of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: This classic pairing provides an additional cheesy experience that everyone loves.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add healthy options alongside rich flavors.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites bring an umami element that works well with the soup’s creaminess.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins can balance out the savory notes of the soup while adding delightful texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the sauté step: This step adds depth and flavor. Always sauté the vegetables before adding the broth.
- Overcooking the broccoli: To keep it vibrant and slightly crunchy, add broccoli towards the end of cooking.
- Not seasoning adequately: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper. Under-seasoning can make the soup bland.
- Ignoring texture: If you desire a creamier soup, ensure you blend well after adding cheese. Adjust thickness with more broth if needed.
- Using low-quality cheese: For the best flavor, use high-quality cheddar cheese. It makes a significant difference in taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup.
Can I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
How can I customize my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower, or even proteins like chicken or bacon.
What should I serve with Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, salad, or a sandwich for a complete meal.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli can be used directly; just add it towards the end of cooking like fresh broccoli.
Final Thoughts
Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is not only creamy and comforting but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or serving friends and family!
Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup, a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for cold days and family gatherings. This delightful soup combines tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese to create a satisfying bowl of comfort. Whether enjoyed as a main course or paired with crusty bread, its flavor will please even the pickiest eaters. Easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and makes great leftovers for meal prep. With each spoonful, you’ll experience warmth that fills your belly and soul.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 5 1/2 Tbsp butter
- 1 1/3 cups chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 3 1/2 cups cubed russet potatoes
- 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 6 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (preferably 1% or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1.5 Tbsp butter. Sauté carrots, celery, and onion for about 4 minutes until softened; add garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in chicken broth, cubed potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to medium; cook for about 15 minutes.
- Add broccoli florets and cook for an additional 5 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt remaining butter; whisk in flour for one minute. Gradually add milk while whisking until smooth; stir in heavy cream.
- Combine the creamy mixture into the soup pot; mix in cheddar cheese until melted. Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
