This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is creamy, comforting, and utterly delicious. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this soup combines the richness of sharp cheddar cheese with the vibrant flavors of fresh broccoli and hearty potatoes. Not only is it simple to make, but it also delivers a satisfying taste that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this soup is sure to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Texture: The blend of cheeses and cream creates a velvety mouthfeel that makes each bite irresistible.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies like broccoli and carrots, this soup is not only tasty but also healthy.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making this soup is a breeze for cooks of all levels.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, with crusty bread, or even as a base for other toppings like croutons or bacon bits.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of cheese and vegetables makes this dish appealing to even the pickiest eaters.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup, gather the necessary tools that will help streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knives
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup and combining all ingredients effectively.
- Medium saucepan: Needed for making the roux that thickens your soup.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth mixture when combining milk and flour without lumps.
Ingredients
This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is creamy, comforting and utterly delicious. It’s sure to please even the fussiest of eaters. Grab a bowl and get cozy!
For the Base
- 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
For the Soup
- 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
For the Creaminess
- 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: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1 1/2 Tbsp of the butter. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté for about 3 – 4 minutes until they soften. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 2: Cook the Base
Stir in chicken broth, cubed potatoes, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium, cover with a lid, and cook for about 15 minutes. Afterward, stir in the chopped broccoli florets and cook for another 5 minutes or until all vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Make the Roux
While your vegetables are cooking, melt the remaining 4 Tbsp butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour using a whisk and cook while whisking constantly for about one minute. Gradually pour in milk while whisking vigorously until no lumps remain.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Keep stirring until your mixture begins to thicken; then stir in heavy cream. Remove from heat once all veggies are tender. Pour this creamy mixture into your soup pot with vegetables. Stir in both cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese until melted completely. Serve warm!
How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect for serving warm and can be customized in many delightful ways. Here are some creative suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Chives: Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a mild onion flavor.
- Parsley Garnish: Add a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh and vibrant touch.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Bread: Serve with a slice of sourdough for a tangy and chewy complement.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Pair with garlic breadsticks for a deliciously buttery crunch.
With Toppings
- Croutons: Add crunchy croutons on top for texture and flavor.
- Extra Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese before serving for an indulgent finish.
With Salad
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad pairs well with the creamy soup.
- Mixed Greens Salad: Lighten the meal with a mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette.
How to Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
To ensure your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Produce: Fresh broccoli and potatoes enhance flavor and texture.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a creamier soup, add more heavy cream or cheese as desired.
- Blend for Smoothness: For a velvety texture, blend part of the soup before adding cheese.
- Season Generously: Taste and adjust salt and pepper to balance flavors throughout.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the soup right after cooking for the best taste and temperature.
Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Classic grilled cheese adds comfort and pairs perfectly with the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide a healthy and hearty side.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges add crunch and make for great dipping!
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Flavorful stuffed mushrooms bring an earthy element to the meal.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful sweetness that complements the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To create the perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup, avoiding common mistakes is key. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheese can affect the flavor and creaminess of your soup. Always opt for fresh, sharp cheddar for the best taste.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Overcooked broccoli and potatoes can turn mushy. Add them at the right time to maintain their texture and flavor.
- Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoned soup lacks flavor. Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust with salt and pepper for balance.
- Skipping the roux: The roux is essential for thickening your soup. Don’t skip this step; it adds creaminess and depth.
- Not using enough broth: Using too little broth will make your soup thick and stewy instead of creamy. Make sure to follow the recipe measurements closely.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered casserole dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a pot, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup:
How can I make my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup thicker?
Add more flour during the roux stage or blend part of the soup to achieve a thicker consistency.
Can I use different vegetables in Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with other veggies like cauliflower or carrots for added nutrition.
What kind of cheese works best for this soup?
While sharp cheddar is ideal, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
Is Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just ensure it’s stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is not just comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy nights in!
Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This creamy soup marries the sharpness of cheddar cheese with fresh broccoli and hearty potatoes, creating a delicious dish that appeals to both kids and adults. Easy to prepare, it is not only satisfying but also packed with nutritious ingredients. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about six portions
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 5 1/2 Tbsp butter
- 1 1/3 cups chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 1/2 cups russet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
- Salt and 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
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1.5 Tbsp butter. Sauté carrots, celery, and onion for about 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
- Stir in chicken broth, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes. Add broccoli and cook for an additional 5 minutes until tender.
- Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat; whisk in flour for one minute. Gradually add milk while whisking until smooth. Once thickened, stir in heavy cream.
- Combine creamy mixture into the soup pot; add cheddar and parmesan until melted. Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
