Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both the heart and the belly, then this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is just what you need! This soup is a delightful mix of creamy potatoes, vibrant broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese that brings smiles all around. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting or for family gatherings that call for a hearty dish everyone will love.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple and wholesome it is. You can whip it up in under 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice whenever hunger strikes. So grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 40 minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, and it’s a sneaky way to get them to eat their veggies!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and you’ll have delicious lunches ready to go throughout the week.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese with fresh vegetables creates a creamy, satisfying soup that’s bursting with flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily modify this soup with different veggies or cheeses to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building that rich, comforting flavor!

For the Soup

• 1-2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken stock
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 cup milk
• 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 soup is its flexibility! Feel free to play around with different ingredients to make it your own.

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little kick.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Use cashew cream instead of milk and dairy-free cheese for a delicious vegan version.
• Swap the Cheese: If cheddar isn’t your favorite, try using gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by melting one to two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sautéing the onions until they begin to soften brings out their natural sweetness. This step sets a flavorful base for your soup!

Step 2: Add Carrots and Seasonings

Next, toss in the diced carrots along with salt and pepper. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes. Adding these at this stage allows their flavors to develop before we create our creamy broth.

Step 3: Stir in the Garlic

Now it’s time for garlic! Add minced garlic and sauté while stirring for about 30 seconds. Garlic adds depth of flavor and an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.

Step 4: Combine Potatoes and Stock

Add your chopped potatoes and chicken stock next. Cover the pot and bring everything to a simmer. This is where magic happens as all those flavors meld together beautifully!

Step 5: Simmer Away!

Let everything simmer for about ten minutes until the potatoes start becoming tender. Then add broccoli florets into the mix. Continue simmering until both broccoli and potatoes are perfectly fork-tender—this should take another ten minutes.

Step 6: Thicken with Cornstarch Mixture

In a small bowl, stir cornstarch into milk until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into your hot soup. This will thicken it beautifully, giving that creamy texture we all love!

Step 7: Add Cheddar Cheese

Finally, stir in that shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely into your soup. This step transforms your soup into a cheesy delight that’s simply irresistible!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle out generous portions of your beautiful Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup into bowls. Serve hot and enjoy each warm spoonful with family or friends!

Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Making this soup is a breeze, but here are some tips to take your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and potatoes not only enhance the flavor but also improve the nutritional value of your soup. Fresh produce tends to have a more vibrant taste that can elevate the entire dish.

• Adjust the cheese: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can try adding gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist. Just remember, each cheese will contribute its own flavor profile.

• Blend for creaminess: For an ultra-smooth soup, consider blending a portion of it after cooking. This creates a creamy texture while still leaving some chunky bits to enjoy. Just use an immersion blender or transfer part of the soup to a regular blender.

• Add spices and herbs: To add depth to your soup, consider incorporating dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. A pinch of paprika can also bring a subtle warmth that complements the cheese beautifully.

• Make it ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together. Prepare it ahead of time for an easy dinner option or meal prep for lunch!

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Serving this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is just as enjoyable as making it! With a few creative touches, you can turn this comforting bowl into a delightful meal that everyone will love.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkling some chopped parsley on top adds a fresh pop of color and brightness that contrasts nicely with the rich soup.
• Croutons: A handful of crunchy croutons provides texture and adds extra flavor, making each spoonful exciting.
• Shredded cheese: A little extra shredded cheese on top right before serving melts beautifully and makes for an inviting presentation.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or baguette is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup. The chewy texture pairs wonderfully with the smoothness of the broth.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of the soup while adding freshness.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: Nothing beats the classic comfort pairing of grilled cheese with tomato soup, so why not swap it out? The gooey melted cheese complements your broccoli potato creation perfectly!
• Roasted vegetables: Sweet roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts add another layer of flavor and nutrition to your meal while their caramelized edges provide delightful contrast.

Now that you’re equipped with these helpful tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to gather your ingredients and savor every delicious spoonful of this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and store it for later, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for about 3-4 days.
• Be sure to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to the fridge to maintain its freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the stove or microwave until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe:

Can I make this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe vegan?

Yes! To make this soup vegan, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and replace milk with almond milk or another non-dairy milk. For cheese, consider using a plant-based cheese alternative.

How can I enhance my Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

You can enhance this soup by adding spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper for a little kick. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also elevate its flavor profile!

Can I add other vegetables to the Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just ensure they are chopped into small pieces so they cook evenly.

How do I thicken my Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add more cornstarch mixed with cold water or milk. Alternatively, blending part of the soup can create a creamy texture while keeping some chunks intact.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients that everyone will love. It’s a perfect dish to share with family and friends, warming hearts and filling bellies. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own; happy cooking!