Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal? Look no further than our cheddar broccoli potato soup recipe. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or as a delightful lunch option. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli brings a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer or as a main course with crusty bread on the side.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables like broccoli and carrots, this soup is both satisfying and healthy.
• Customizable: Feel free to add extra vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences!

Tools and Preparation

To make our cheddar broccoli potato soup, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking the soup, allowing enough space for all ingredients while ensuring even heating.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining flour and milk smoothly, preventing lumps in your creamy soup.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring ease and safety during preparation.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To create this delicious cheddar broccoli potato soup, gather the following 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, 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)

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat until bubbly.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion; sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Potatoes

Pour in low-sodium chicken broth along with cubed potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Cook the Potatoes

Reduce heat, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Add Broccoli

Stir in chopped broccoli florets and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they are tender.

Step 7: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a separate saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour; cook for about a minute while stirring constantly.

Step 8: Incorporate Milk

Slowly add milk while whisking vigorously until no lumps remain. Allow mixture to cook until thickened.

Step 9: Finish the Soup

Remove from heat; stir thickened mixture into the soup. Mix well to combine all flavors.

Step 10: Add Cheeses

Remove from heat again; fold in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and finely shredded parmesan until melted.

Step 11: Serve

Serve warm in bowls. Enjoy your comforting bowl of cheddar broccoli potato soup!

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving your cheddar broccoli potato soup can elevate the meal experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping. The bread absorbs the flavors beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of freshness and color to each bowl.

With a Side Salad

• A light garden salad complements the richness of the soup and adds a refreshing crunch.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top enhances the flavor profile and gives it a gourmet touch.

With Toasted Nuts

• Sprinkling toasted almonds or walnuts on top provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.

How to Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

To create the best cheddar broccoli potato soup, consider these tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables, especially broccoli, make a significant difference in taste and nutrition.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer; for a thinner consistency, add more broth or milk.
• Incorporate spices: Experiment with additional spices like paprika or cayenne for an extra kick of flavor.
• Blend for creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend part of the soup before adding cheese.
• Serve hot: Ensure your soup is piping hot when served to maximize enjoyment and flavor release.

Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Complementing your cheddar broccoli potato soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that offers a delightful garlic flavor, perfect for dipping into the soup.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and can be prepared easily alongside the main dish.

4. Quinoa Salad
   Light and nutritious, quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and beans make for a hearty side that is both filling and tasty.

6. Cheese Quesadillas
   Quick to prepare, cheesy quesadillas offer great texture alongside the smoothness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cheddar broccoli potato soup can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the broth: Using only water can lead to bland soup. Always use low-sodium chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long makes them mushy. Add broccoli towards the end to keep it tender-crisp.
• Not whisking properly: Failing to whisk the flour and milk can create lumps. Ensure you whisk continuously until smooth for a creamy texture.
• Ignoring seasoning: Forgetting to add salt and pepper can make your soup taste flat. Season throughout cooking for balanced flavors.
• Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheddar won’t melt well and can affect taste. Opt for sharp cheddar for better flavor and creaminess.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat while stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making cheddar broccoli potato soup, we’ve got you covered!

What is Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Cheddar broccoli potato soup is a creamy, comforting blend of potatoes, broccoli, and cheese, perfect for any meal.

How do I make my soup thicker?

For a thicker consistency, let the soup simmer longer or add a slurry of flour and water while stirring continuously.

Can I customize the Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots, or even swap out cheeses based on your preference.

How do I store leftovers of Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This cheddar broccoli potato soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy lunch or dinner option, its creamy texture and rich flavors are sure to satisfy. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!