Name: Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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)

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If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal, look no further than our Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup recipe. This hearty soup is not just food; it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but satisfying, or at family gatherings where everyone can gather around the table and share a lovely meal.

What makes this cheddar broccoli potato soup special is its creamy texture and the delightful combination of flavors. The sharp cheddar cheese mingles beautifully with tender broccoli and hearty potatoes, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. You’ll find it’s not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that warms the soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time!
Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Comforting Flavor: Each spoonful is packed with warmth and satisfaction, perfect for chilly evenings.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, ensuring that every bite of your cheddar broccoli potato soup is filled with goodness. Let’s gather what we 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
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

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Add More Veggies: Toss in extra vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
Make it Vegan: Swap out dairy for plant-based milk and use vegan cheese alternatives.
Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or beans for an extra protein boost.

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion; sauté them for about 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften. This step builds the base flavor of your soup—those sweet aromatics will make your kitchen smell amazing!

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once your veggies are tender, add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds. Garlic adds depth and richness to your soup; don’t skip this part!

Step 3: Stir in Broth and Potatoes

Now it’s time to stir in the low-sodium chicken broth along with peeled and cubed russet potatoes. Don’t forget to sprinkle in dried thyme, salt, and pepper! Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to cover and simmer for about 15 minutes. This lets the potatoes cook through while absorbing all those lovely flavors.

Step 4: Add Broccoli

After the potatoes have softened, gently fold in the chopped broccoli florets into the pot. Cook for an additional five minutes until they become tender but still vibrant green. This is where your soup starts looking beautiful!

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Base

In another saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook it for one minute while stirring constantly—you want to create a roux that will help thicken your soup without any lumps forming.

Step 6: Incorporate Milk

Slowly add in the milk while whisking continuously until there are no lumps left. Keep cooking until this mixture thickens up nicely; then stir in heavy cream before removing from heat. This creamy base is what takes your cheddar broccoli potato soup from good to absolutely fabulous!

Step 7: Combine & Melt Cheese

Pour this thickened mixture into your vegetable broth pot, stirring well to combine everything together. Remove from heat once more as you mix in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and parmesan until melted completely—such cheesy goodness awaits!

Step 8: Serve Warm

Ladle out generous portions of your delicious cheddar broccoli potato soup into bowls—don’t forget to garnish if you’d like! Enjoy every comforting bite with loved ones around you.

And there you have it—a delightful cheddar broccoli potato soup that brings warmth and joy with every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Making a delicious cheddar broccoli potato soup is all about the little tips that can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some handy suggestions to keep in mind!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality cheese enhance the flavors of your soup, making it richer and more vibrant. Fresh broccoli, for example, adds not just taste but also a beautiful green color.
Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider blending a portion of it after cooking. This will create a creamy texture while still leaving some chunky bits for added interest.
Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is delicious, mixing it with other cheeses like gouda or fontina can add depth to the flavor profile. Just remember to keep the quantities balanced!
Season as you go: Tasting and adjusting the seasoning throughout the cooking process ensures that your soup has optimal flavor. Don’t be afraid to add a pinch of extra salt or pepper if needed!
Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftover soup, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to three days or be frozen for longer storage—perfect for meal prep!

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving your cheddar broccoli potato soup can turn a simple meal into something special! Here are some delightful ways to present this comfort food classic.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or chives on top adds a fresh touch and brightens the dish visually.
Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
Extra cheese: A small handful of shredded cheese on top right before serving can melt slightly and enhance that cheesy goodness everyone loves.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread: A warm baguette or rustic loaf is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding texture and heartiness to your meal.
Garden salad: A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, offering freshness in every bite.
Steamed vegetables: Simple steamed carrots or green beans add color and nutrients while keeping the meal healthy and satisfying.
Grilled cheese sandwiches: Pairing this comforting soup with gooey grilled cheese sandwiches takes you back to childhood while providing extra warmth on chilly days.

Enjoy crafting this delightful cheddar broccoli potato soup recipe! It’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your delicious soup fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Leave a little space at the top of containers, as the soup will expand when frozen.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Transfer thawed soup to a pot over medium heat on the stove.
Stir occasionally until warmed through; add a splash of milk if it appears too thick.
Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.

FAQs

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

Can I use frozen broccoli for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Yes! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking until heated through.

How do I make my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, you can let it simmer longer after adding the milk and cream or use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot.

What can I serve with Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a light sandwich for a complete meal.

Can I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and choose plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this cozy Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s not only comforting but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or sharing it with loved ones, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every spoonful!

Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

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Description

Warm up with our delightful Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup, a creamy and comforting dish that brings joy to any table. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this hearty soup combines sharp cheddar cheese, tender broccoli, and hearty russet potatoes for an indulgent yet wholesome experience. Each spoonful is packed with flavor, making it a go-to recipe for chilly evenings. With its easy preparation and family-friendly appeal, this soup will quickly become a cherished favorite in your home.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

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Instructions

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add low-sodium chicken broth and cubed potatoes. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes.
Fold in chopped broccoli and cook for an additional 5 minutes until tender.
In a separate saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux.
Gradually add milk while whisking until smooth; then stir in heavy cream.
Combine the creamy mixture into the vegetable broth pot and mix well.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and parmesan until melted completely.
Serve warm with optional garnishes like fresh herbs or croutons.