Warm up with creamy Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup—a comforting, cheesy blend perfect for cozy meals any day of the week. This hearty soup combines tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese in a silky base that’s both filling and nutritious. Whether you’re seeking a nourishing lunch or a comforting dinner, this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup promises all the flavors and textures you crave for that ultimate cozy experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in a Bowl: This soup wraps you in rich, creamy goodness that’s like a warm hug on a chilly day.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh produce, you can whip it up anytime without a special trip to the store.
- Balanced Nutrition: Loaded with vitamin-packed broccoli and filling potatoes, it’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
- Family Favorite: The cheesy flavor appeals to kids and adults alike, making it a crowd-pleaser at the dinner table.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores and reheats beautifully, giving you comforting meals ready to go throughout the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup plays a vital role in building its luscious texture and vibrant taste. From creamy potatoes that thicken the base to sharp cheddar that adds depth, these essentials come together with broccoli’s bright flavor to create a flawless balance.
- Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes break down slightly, creating a naturally creamy texture.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Adds a fresh, slightly crunchy bite along with bright green color.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides that irresistible cheesy richness and depth of flavor.
- Onion: Sautéed onions build a savory base and enhance the soup’s aroma.
- Garlic Cloves: Brings warmth and subtle pungency, awakening the flavors.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base, offering richness without heaviness.
- Butter and Flour (for roux): Combined to gently thicken the soup to a creamy consistency.
- Milk or Heavy Cream: Adds luscious creaminess and smoothness to the final soup.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance every ingredient.
Variations for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to tweak it according to what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Making it your own is both simple and satisfying.
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free option.
- Extra Veggies: Add carrots or celery for extra crunch and nutritional boost.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cheddar with vegan cheese and swap milk for coconut or almond milk.
- Thicker Soup: Mash some of the potatoes more thoroughly or add extra roux for a heartier texture.
How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Peel and dice the russet potatoes into evenly sized chunks and chop fresh broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic to build flavor from the start.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until translucent, then stir in garlic for a minute until fragrant—this will be the flavor foundation of your soup.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle flour over the sautéed onion and garlic and stir continuously for a couple of minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This step thickens the soup beautifully without needing heavy cream right away.
Step 4: Add Liquid and Potatoes
Slowly whisk in chicken or vegetable broth to avoid lumps, then add diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let the potatoes cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Add Broccoli and Simmer
Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet still vibrant green. This ensures a perfect balance of softness and texture.
Step 6: Blend Some of the Soup
For creamy consistency with chunks, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, or transfer half to a blender and pulse until smooth. This step is key to that silky mouthfeel.
Step 7: Stir in Cheddar and Milk
Lower the heat and slowly stir in shredded cheddar cheese, melting it completely into the soup. Then add milk or cream, stirring until the soup is rich and smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 8: Final Taste Test and Adjustments
Taste your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup and add more seasoning if needed. This last step ensures every spoonful bursts with perfectly balanced flavor.
Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
- Use Sharp Cheddar: The sharper the cheese, the more flavorful your soup will be.
- Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Add it late so it remains bright and slightly crisp.
- Partial Blending: Blend only half the soup for that ideal creamy yet chunky texture.
- Low and Slow: Melt cheese and cream over low heat to prevent curdling or separation.
- Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper in stages to avoid over-seasoning.
How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
Garnishes
Top your bowl with extra shredded cheddar, a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, or chopped green onions for a pop of color and added texture that makes every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad to round out the meal with contrasting textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun, rustic touch, or drizzle a swirl of sour cream or pesto on top for a gourmet finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This soup freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture and prevent the cheese from separating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works fine—add it after the potatoes have cooked, but keep in mind it may be softer than fresh.
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Swap cheddar cheese for a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk and broth for a delicious vegan version.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
You can substitute sweet potatoes, but the flavor and texture will be different—expect a sweeter and slightly less creamy soup.
How thick should the soup be?
Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup should be creamy but not overly thick—thick enough to coat a spoon but still easy to ladle and enjoy.
Can I add protein to this soup?
Yes! Add cooked chicken, crumbled sausage, or even crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a bowl of warm, cheesy Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup that just feels like home. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a lazy weekend, this recipe is your go-to for comfort and nourishment wrapped up in creamy, cheesy perfection. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite cozy meal!