Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, then this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is just what you need! This soup has a delightful creaminess that wraps around healthy veggies and cheesy goodness. It’s been a family favorite for years, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet quick to whip up. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to bring smiles to the table.

What makes this recipe even more special? It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make. You can have it ready in about 40 minutes, making it a go-to option for any occasion. Plus, with its vibrant green broccoli and hearty potatoes, it looks as good as it tastes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy flavor, and parents appreciate the healthy ingredients.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It stores well in the refrigerator, so you can enjoy leftovers or prepare it ahead of time.
• Nutrient-Packed: With broccoli and potatoes, this soup is loaded with vitamins and minerals.
• Comforting Flavor: The creamy texture combined with sharp cheddar cheese creates a delightful taste that warms your soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is part of the joy of cooking! For this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe, you’ll find everything you need right in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup

• 1-2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken stock
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into ½-inch cubes
• 16 ounces broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this soup is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Add some protein: Toss in shredded cooked chicken or beans for an extra boost of protein.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a kick!
• Switch up the cheese: Try using different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for unique flavors.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute milk with almond milk and use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.

How to Make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt one to two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion until it’s soft—about 3 minutes. By cooking the onions first, you’re bringing out their natural sweetness. Then add in the carrots along with salt and pepper; continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes. Finally, toss in the garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do!

Step 2: Simmer with Broth

Next, add the chopped potatoes and chicken stock to your skillet. Cover it up and let everything simmer away for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial because we want those potatoes to become tender enough to fork through easily before adding our broccoli.

Step 3: Add Broccoli

Now it’s time to add in the broccoli florets! Continue simmering until both the broccoli and potatoes are tender—this should take about another 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily poke them with a fork.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

In a small bowl, stir together cornstarch and milk until smooth. This mixture will help thicken your soup beautifully! Stir it into your hot soup mixture until combined.

Step 5: Melt in Cheese

Finally, add in all that delicious shredded sharp cheddar cheese! Stir gently until melted throughout. This adds that creamy richness we all love in soups!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is now ready to be enjoyed! Ladle it into bowls, maybe sprinkle some extra cheese on top if you like, and dig in! There’s nothing quite like sharing a bowl of warm soup with loved ones on a chilly day. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Making the perfect Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is all about technique and a little love! Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out creamy and delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and crisp carrots will enhance the flavor of your soup, giving it a vibrant taste and texture that frozen vegetables might not provide.
• Blend for creaminess: If you prefer an ultra-smooth consistency, consider blending a portion of the soup before adding the cheese. This will create a rich base while still leaving some chunky vegetables for texture.
• Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is delightful, try mixing in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added depth of flavor. Each cheese brings its own unique taste profile to the soup.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the salt and pepper according to your preference. A pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper can also add a lovely warmth and complexity.
• Make it ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Serving your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or green onions: Sprinkling fresh herbs adds color and a burst of flavor that complements the richness of the soup.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the smoothness of the soup.
• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of extra cheese on top right before serving makes for an appealing presentation and enhances that cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping, bringing an extra layer of flavor to each spoonful of soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add a nutritious side that complements the creamy texture while providing additional flavors.
• Pita Chips with Hummus: Crispy pita chips served alongside creamy hummus make for a delightful snack that pairs wonderfully with your soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup will surely impress family and friends! Enjoy every comforting spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is an excellent choice for meal prep! Not only does it hold up well in the fridge, but it also tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or bags to store portions of the soup.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute butter with olive oil or plant-based butter, use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and choose a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How can I adjust the thickness of my Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

If you prefer your soup thicker, simply add more cornstarch mixed with milk. For a thinner consistency, add additional broth or milk until you reach your desired texture.

What cheese works best for this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

Sharp cheddar cheese provides a great flavor; however, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for a different taste!

Is this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes! This soup freezes well. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before storing it in freezer-safe containers.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or prepping it for lunch during the week, it’s sure to bring joy to your table. Happy cooking!