Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal? Look no further than our cheddar broccoli potato soup recipe. This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar cheese, tender broccoli, and creamy potatoes, making it perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends and family. Its velvety texture and savory taste will warm you from the inside out. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, ensuring you can enjoy a delightful dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of cheddar and broccoli creates a rich, satisfying taste that warms your soul.
• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 55 minutes, you can whip up this soup without much fuss.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this soup suits any occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies like broccoli and carrots, it’s a healthy choice for the whole family.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness makes it appealing to kids, helping them enjoy their vegetables.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your cheddar broccoli potato soup, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Ladle
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering soups, allowing all ingredients to blend beautifully.
• Whisk: Essential for combining flour and milk smoothly, preventing lumps in your creamy soup.

Ingredients

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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat until fully melted.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they become tender.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Potatoes

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, then add the cubed russet potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 5: Cook Potatoes

Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Add Broccoli

Stir in the chopped broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.

Step 7: Prepare Cheese Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking for about one minute while stirring constantly.

Step 8: Add Milk

Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously until smooth with no lumps. Cook this mixture until it thickens slightly.

Step 9: Combine Mixtures

Stir in the heavy cream, then remove from heat. Pour this thickened mixture into the soup pot; stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 10: Add Cheese

Remove from heat again and mix in both the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese. Stir until melted completely.

Step 11: Serve

Ladle your soup into bowls while it’s warm. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving cheddar broccoli potato soup is an experience that can be both comforting and delightful. This rich and creamy soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: A thick slice of sourdough complements the creamy texture while adding a tangy flavor.
• Garlic Bread: The aroma of garlic bread enhances the dish, providing a crunchy contrast to the smooth soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Chives: Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Parsley: Finely chopped parsley adds freshness and a vibrant green touch to your bowl.

With Cheese Garnish

• Extra Cheddar: A sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar on top makes for an indulgent, cheesy finish.
• Parmesan Shavings: Adding thin shavings of parmesan gives a nutty depth to each bite.

How to Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

To create the ultimate cheddar broccoli potato soup, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Flavor Boost: Use low-sodium chicken broth for enhanced flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
• Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy consistency, blend some of the soup before adding cheese.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh broccoli instead of frozen to achieve better texture and taste.
• Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, gradually add more milk until the desired consistency is reached.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Pairing sides with cheddar broccoli potato soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess of the soup.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Classic grilled cheese adds comfort; try using different cheeses for variety.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms bring an earthy flavor that complements the soup’s richness.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables enhances nutrition and adds vibrant colors.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a hit; serve them with sour cream or your favorite dip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making cheddar broccoli potato soup, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the sautéing step: Failing to sauté the vegetables can lead to a lack of flavor in your soup. Always take the time to soften and enhance the taste of your carrots, celery, and onions before adding other ingredients.
• Not cutting potatoes evenly: If your potato pieces are uneven, they will cook at different rates. Ensure all potatoes are cubed to a uniform size (1/2-inch to 3/4-inch) for even cooking.
• Using low-quality cheese: Selecting subpar cheese can result in a less flavorful soup. Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for a rich taste that complements the other ingredients.
• Overcooking broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy and lose its vibrant color. Add it towards the end of cooking and only simmer until tender.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Tasting your soup as it cooks is key. Don’t hesitate to adjust salt and pepper levels based on your preference; each batch can vary.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months.
• Leave space in the container for expansion as the soup freezes.

Reheating Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring between each.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cheddar broccoli potato soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in cheddar broccoli potato soup?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option while still maintaining creaminess.

How do I customize my cheddar broccoli potato soup?

Feel free to add proteins like cooked chicken or bacon, or incorporate other vegetables such as cauliflower or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This cheddar broccoli potato soup is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and reheats easily throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Cheddar broccoli potato soup is not only comforting but also versatile, making it ideal for any occasion. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. We encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to warm both your heart and your stomach!

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Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Cheddar broccoli potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This creamy, hearty soup features a delightful blend of sharp cheddar cheese, tender broccoli florets, and velvety potatoes.

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Ingredients

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• 5 1/2 tbsp butter
• 1 1/3 cups chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 1/2 cups peeled and cubed russet potatoes
• 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
• 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (preferably 1% or 2%)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté the chopped carrots, celery, and onion for 3–4 minutes until tender.
3. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
4. Add chicken broth, cubed potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper; bring to boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; cover and cook for about 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in chopped broccoli and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. In a medium saucepan, melt remaining butter; whisk in flour for one minute.
8. Gradually add milk while whisking until smooth; cook until slightly thickened.
9. Combine the mixture with soup; stir well before adding cheese.
10. Remove from heat and mix in cheddar and parmesan until melted.
11. Serve warm and enjoy.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 365
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 60mg