Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup Recipe

Warm, creamy, and packed with flavor, cheddar broccoli potato soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or when you just want something hearty and delicious. The combination of tender broccoli, creamy potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a soup that’s sure to satisfy the whole family. If you're a fan of rich, cheesy goodness paired with the healthy benefits of vegetables, this recipe is for you. So, grab your ingredients and let's dive into this irresistible cheddar broccoli potato soup recipe!

What is Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Cheddar broccoli potato soup is a rich and creamy soup that blends together the savory flavors of broccoli, potatoes, and cheddar cheese. The texture is thick and hearty, making it a filling meal on its own or the perfect accompaniment to sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. This soup balances the sharpness of cheddar cheese with the mild, starchy flavor of potatoes and the earthy, green taste of broccoli. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, this soup is bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients List for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

The ingredients you need for cheddar broccoli potato soup are simple and can be found in any grocery store. These items combine to create a luscious, creamy soup that is both flavorful and satisfying.

• 2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
• 3 large russet potatoes – Peeled and cubed into small pieces.
• 1 medium onion – Finely chopped for a mild sweetness.
• 3 cloves garlic – Minced to enhance the overall flavor.
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth – Adds a savory base for the soup.
• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese – Freshly grated for maximum creaminess.
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream or whole milk – To give the soup a rich, velvety texture.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – For sautéing and adding a rich flavor to the soup.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Used to thicken the soup.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika – For a hint of warmth and extra flavor.

Ingredient List for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup (Optional Toppings)

To make your soup extra special, consider these optional toppings. They add texture and flavor that will elevate your cheddar broccoli potato soup to new heights.

• Crispy bacon bits – For a crunchy, smoky contrast to the creamy soup.
• Chopped green onions – A fresh, slightly tangy garnish.
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese – Because you can never have too much cheese!
• Croutons – For added crunch and texture.
• Sour cream – A dollop on top for tangy creaminess.

Substitutions and Variations

Don’t have all the ingredients on hand or want to switch things up? No problem! Here are some easy substitutions and variations to customize your cheddar broccoli potato soup:

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, and use a dairy-free cheese option.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower to lower the carb count while keeping the texture creamy.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the dish.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in extra vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrients and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the best cheddar broccoli potato soup. It’s easy to make and takes less than an hour from start to finish.

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into small cubes. Chop your broccoli into bite-sized florets and finely dice your onion and garlic. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flour to cook and form a roux, which will thicken your soup.
4. Add the Broth and Potatoes: Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the cubed potatoes, bring the soup to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Add the Broccoli: Once the potatoes are cooked through, stir in the broccoli florets. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
6. Blend the Soup (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup while leaving some chunks for texture. You can also transfer half the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
7. Stir in Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream (or milk) and grated cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste, along with optional cayenne or paprika.
8. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like bacon bits, extra cheese, or green onions. Enjoy your warm and comforting cheddar broccoli potato soup!

How to Cook Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking cheddar broccoli potato soup is simple when you break it down into these easy steps: sauté the aromatics, thicken with a roux, simmer the potatoes and broccoli in broth, blend (optional), and finish with cream and cheese. Following these instructions will result in a creamy, flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're making it for a casual weeknight dinner or for a special gathering, this soup is sure to impress!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making cheddar broccoli potato soup:

• Overcooking the Broccoli: If you cook the broccoli too long, it will lose its bright green color and become mushy. Be sure to add the broccoli toward the end of cooking and simmer just until tender.
• Not Stirring the Cheese Properly: Cheese can sometimes clump together when added to hot liquid. To avoid this, reduce the heat and add the cheese slowly, stirring constantly until it melts smoothly.
• Skipping the Roux: The roux (butter and flour mixture) is what thickens your soup and gives it a velvety texture. Don’t skip this step!
• Not Seasoning Properly: Potatoes and broccoli both need plenty of seasoning. Be sure to taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you serve and present your cheddar broccoli potato soup can make a big difference. Here are some presentation tips to wow your guests:

• Serve in Bread Bowls: Hollow out a round loaf of crusty bread and pour the soup inside for an impressive presentation.
• Add Garnishes: Top each bowl with crispy bacon bits, a drizzle of sour cream, or a sprinkle of paprika for added visual appeal and flavor.
• Cheese Croutons: Top the soup with homemade croutons sprinkled with grated cheddar cheese and broiled for a couple of minutes to melt the cheese.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Cheddar broccoli potato soup can be served as a main course or a side dish. Pair it with a light green salad for a balanced meal, or serve it alongside a grilled sandwich for a heartier option. Crusty bread or garlic toast is always a great companion to this rich and creamy soup, allowing you to soak up every last drop!

Presentation Ideas for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Individual Soup Bowls: Serve the soup in brightly colored individual bowls to contrast the soup’s creamy texture and green hue.
• Add Layers of Toppings: Arrange garnishes like bacon bits, green onions, or extra cheese in neat layers to create a visually appealing and appetizing presentation.
• Mini Soup Shots for Parties: Serve the soup in small shot glasses or cups for a fun and casual appetizer at parties.

Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Cheese: Always grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese, as pre-shredded varieties often contain additives that prevent them from melting smoothly.
• Don’t Skip the Blending: Even if you like a chunkier soup, blending at least part of the soup will help achieve the creamy, velvety texture that makes cheddar broccoli potato soup so satisfying.
• Make It Ahead of Time: This soup can be made in advance and reheated when ready to serve. In fact, the flavors often get better after a day or two in the fridge!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze cheddar broccoli potato soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. However, dairy-based soups can sometimes separate when thawed, so it’s best to freeze the soup before adding the cream and cheese. When reheating, add the dairy ingredients fresh.

2. How long does this soup last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, cheddar broccoli potato soup will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make this soup in a slow cooker, sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything except the cheese and cream to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the cream and cheese just before serving.

4. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup.

Conclusion

Cheddar broccoli potato soup is the ultimate comfort food. It's creamy, cheesy, and packed with the goodness of broccoli and potatoes. Whether you're serving it as a main course or a starter, this soup is sure to impress. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and variations to make it your own. Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy your cozy, flavorful bowl of cheddar broccoli potato soup.

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