Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal? Our cheddar broccoli potato soup is the perfect choice for any occasion! With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this soup is ideal for cozy nights in or as a nourishing lunch. The combination of cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli makes it a standout dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The blend of sharp cheddar and hearty potatoes creates a warm, satisfying meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in under an hour.
• Versatile Option: Perfect as a starter, main course, or side dish; it fits any meal plan.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and dairy, it’s a wholesome choice for the whole family.
• Leftover Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is crucial for cooking the soup evenly while allowing all ingredients to meld their flavors together.
• Chef’s knife: A good knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables, making prep work quick and safe.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for our delightful cheddar broccoli potato soup:

• 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.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they start to soften.
Then add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broth and Potatoes

Stir in low-sodium chicken broth, peeled cubed potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

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

Step 5: Incorporate Broccoli

Add chopped broccoli florets into the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until they are tender but still bright green.

Step 6: Create a Creamy Base

In a separate saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute while stirring constantly. Slowly add milk while whisking until there are no lumps. Cook until thickened.

Step 7: Combine Mixtures

Stir the thickened mixture into the soup. Remove from heat.

Step 8: Add Cheeses

Mix in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and finely shredded parmesan cheese until melted.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Serve your delicious cheddar broccoli potato soup warm. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving your cheddar broccoli potato soup can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that complement the rich flavors of the soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair with a warm, crusty baguette for a comforting dip.
• Enjoy with sliced sourdough bread for added texture and flavor.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh burst of color.
• Add a sprinkle of thyme to enhance the savory notes.

Accompanied by Salad

• Serve alongside a simple garden salad to balance the richness of the soup.
• A Caesar salad can also be a great choice for added crunch and flavor.

With Cheese Toast

• Top slices of bread with cheese, toast until bubbly, and serve alongside your soup.
• This adds an extra cheesy element that pairs perfectly with the dish.

How to Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

To create the best cheddar broccoli potato soup, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve a creamy, flavorful result every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and vegetables will enhance the overall taste and texture of your soup.
• Control Thickness: Adjust the amount of flour based on how thick you want your soup. For a thinner consistency, use less flour.
• Opt for Sharp Cheese: Using sharp cheddar cheese adds more flavor compared to mild cheddar.
• Blend for Smoothness: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend part of the soup before mixing in the cheese.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Add salt and pepper gradually to avoid over-seasoning.

Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Complement your cheddar broccoli potato soup with these delicious side dishes. Each one brings something special to your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your soup.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooey, melted cheese paired with crispy bread creates a comforting combination.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These hearty peppers filled with rice or quinoa add a colorful touch to your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies provides a healthy side option full of flavor.
5. Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, quinoa salad offers a nutritious contrast to creamy soup.
6. Potato Wedges: Crunchy potato wedges seasoned well can serve as a fun finger food alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup to the next level.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this part; it adds depth to the soup.
• Not cutting potatoes evenly: Uneven potato sizes lead to inconsistent cooking. Make sure to cube them uniformly for even texture.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese can compromise flavor. Opt for a sharp cheddar cheese for a robust taste in your soup.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli becomes mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking to retain its vibrant color and crunch.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting and adjusting seasonings is crucial. Don’t forget to check salt and pepper before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• item Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.
• item It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup so comforting?

Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup combines creamy textures with rich flavors, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Can I customize my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Yes! You can add different vegetables like carrots or cauliflower or switch up the cheese for variations in flavor.

How do I thicken Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup or add more flour during preparation.

Is Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and tastes even better after sitting, making it ideal for meal prepping.

How long does Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup last in the fridge?

Properly stored, it will last for about 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, this comforting soup is sure to please everyone at your table!