Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming meal that can bring the whole family together, this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is just the ticket! It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with nutritious veggies. I love making this soup on busy weeknights or when I have friends over; it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up that you’ll want to keep it in your regular dinner rotation.

What makes this recipe truly special is how it balances rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. The combination of broccoli and potatoes creates a delightful texture, while the cheese adds that irresistible creaminess we all crave. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this soup is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: Just a few simple steps and you’ll have a delicious soup bubbling on the stove!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and vibrant colors of this dish.
• Perfect for leftovers: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week—this soup tastes even better the next day!
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with vegetables, this soup brings a healthy twist to your comfort food cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen! Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this delightful Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup.

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

The beauty of this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Add some protein: Consider adding cooked chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Spice it up: Toss in some red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little heat.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.
• Go green: Add spinach or kale for an extra dose of greens and fiber!

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 diced onion until it begins to soften—about 3 minutes. The aroma of sautéing onions fills your kitchen with warmth! Next, add in the carrots along with salt and pepper. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes before adding minced garlic. Sautéing garlic for just about 30 seconds will release its fragrant flavor without burning.

Step 2: Simmer the Potatoes

Now it’s time to add in those hearty potatoes along with four cups of chicken broth. Cover and bring everything to a simmer. Letting it simmer for about 10 minutes allows those potatoes to soften beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

Add in your broccoli florets and continue simmering until both the broccoli and potatoes are tender—this should take around another 10 minutes. You want those potatoes fork-tender so they melt seamlessly into the soup!

Step 4: Thicken It Up

In a small bowl, stir cornstarch into one cup of milk until smooth. Pour this mixture into your hot soup while stirring consistently. This step is crucial as it thickens your soup to that perfect creamy consistency!

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Finally, stir in one and a half cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the soup. The addition of cheese not only elevates flavor but also makes each bowl irresistibly creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle your delicious Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup into bowls, garnish if you’d like, and serve warm! Each spoonful is filled with comfort that warms both body and soul—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Making this soup is a breeze, but these pro tips will help you elevate it even further!

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh broccoli and potatoes not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your soup. They provide that vibrant green color and a satisfying texture.
• Adjust cheese types: Experiment with different types of cheese! While sharp cheddar is delightful, mixing in some Gruyère or Monterey Jack can add depth and creaminess to the soup.
• Blend for creaminess: If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup before adding the cheese. This creates a velvety consistency while still keeping some chunky veggies.
• Add spices for flair: Want to kick up the flavor? Consider adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle heat or nutmeg for warmth. These spices can transform your soup into something extraordinary!
• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together in the refrigerator overnight. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Serving this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. Here are some fun ideas!

Garnishes

• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives not only adds color but also brings a mild onion flavor that brightens up each spoonful.
• Shredded cheese: A little extra cheese on top makes for an appealing visual and enhances that cheesy goodness we all love.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Soft and buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, making every bite more enjoyable.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, providing freshness and balance.
• Grilled cheese sandwich: A classic pairing! The gooey, melted cheese in between crispy bread pairs perfectly with each spoonful of your hearty soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add extra nutrients and a touch of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with your creamy dish.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup will not only be comforting but also deliciously memorable! Enjoy every warm bowlful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making your busy days a little easier. Here’s how to store and reheat your soup:

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 to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator for even reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in increments of 1 minute, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this tasty soup recipe:

Can I use frozen broccoli in the Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great in this recipe. Just add it directly to the pot when you would add fresh broccoli.

What can I substitute instead of cheese in the Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

If you’re looking for a cheese alternative, consider using nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute. Both options will give you a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How long does the Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe last in the fridge?

The soup can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add other vegetables to the Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or cauliflower to enhance its nutritional value and flavor.

Is this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup! It’s a delightful way to pack your meal with nutrition while enjoying a creamy texture that warms your heart. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or enjoying leftovers during your busy week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience — I’d love to hear how it turns out!