Name: Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: 5 1/2 tbsp butter, divided; 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; 1/4 tsp dried thyme; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 6 tbsp all-purpose flour; 3 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/3 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese

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If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal, you’ve come to the right place! This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is one of my all-time favorites. It warms the soul and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that invites everyone to gather around the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this soup brings everyone together, making each bowl a delightful experience.

I love how this recipe combines the heartiness of potatoes with the vibrant crunch of broccoli and the rich creaminess of cheddar cheese. It’s not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for those evenings when time is tight but you still want something homemade.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy its creamy texture and cheesy flavor. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping everyone happy!
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this soup ahead of time. Just reheat it for an effortless meal later in the week.
Deliciously Comforting: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your household!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup! These are easy to find at any grocery store, so you’ll be ready to start cooking in no time.

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)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it based on what you have or what flavors you love. Here are some fun variation ideas:

Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped cauliflower or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Spice It Up: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
Swap the Cheese: If you’re looking for something a bit different, try using gouda or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for unique flavors.
Make It Vegan: Substitute plant-based butter, almond milk, and dairy-free cheese alternatives to create a vegan version of this hearty soup.

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by melting half of the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté these vegetables for about 3–4 minutes until they soften. This step is crucial as it builds a tasty foundation for your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Next, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds. Garlic adds depth and flavor that will infuse throughout your soup.

Step 3: Combine with Broth and Potatoes

Now it’s time to stir in the low-sodium chicken broth along with your cubed potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat. Cover it up and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Broccoli

After your potatoes are cooked through, add in the chopped broccoli florets. Cook everything together for another five minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Base

In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute while stirring constantly; this will help thicken your soup later on. Slowly add milk while whisking until there are no lumps left—this creamy base is what makes your soup so decadent!

Step 6: Finish Off Your Soup

Once thickened, stir in heavy cream before removing from heat. Pour this creamy mixture into your pot full of veggies. Mix everything well before adding both shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese until they melt into that luxurious soup we all crave.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Remove from heat once everything is combined perfectly! Serve your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup warm with crusty bread or crackers on the side—and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Making soup can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll elevate your cheddar broccoli potato soup to perfection!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and cheese will enhance the flavors of your soup, providing a vibrant taste and texture that frozen or pre-packaged options cannot match.
Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply let it simmer a bit longer after adding the thickening mixture. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully while achieving your desired consistency.
Add a splash of lemon juice: A tiny squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors in your soup, balancing the creaminess with a refreshing tang.
Customize the cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese! Combining sharp cheddar with a bit of gouda or pepper jack can add unique flavor dimensions that keep your taste buds excited.
Make it ahead: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Making it ahead means dinner is ready when you are, perfect for busy weeknights!

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving this hearty cheddar broccoli potato soup can make all the difference in presentation and enjoyment. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more special.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Croutons: Add crunchy croutons for texture; they provide a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
Extra cheese: A sprinkle of additional shredded cheddar on top just before serving adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of your delicious soup.
Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, such as carrots or Brussels sprouts, offer a nutritious counterpart that complements the flavors in your dish.
Baked potatoes: For those who want to go all out, baked potatoes served alongside can be topped with extra cheese or sour cream for an indulgent pairing!

Enjoy every bowlful of this comforting cheddar broccoli potato soup—it’s sure to warm both hearts and bellies!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, and it stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
Transfer to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Let the soup cool down entirely.
Pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Got questions about this comforting dish? Here are answers to some common queries:

Can I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with additional milk or use a non-dairy alternative like oat milk or almond milk for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup can last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it cool down before sealing!

Is Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with nutritious vegetables like broccoli and carrots, along with hearty potatoes. You can also adjust ingredients to suit your dietary preferences!

Can I add other vegetables to my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate your favorite veggies such as spinach, cauliflower, or bell peppers. They’ll add flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to experience its deliciousness!