Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting bowl of goodness that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Packed with tender potatoes, vibrant broccoli, and ooey-gooey sharp cheddar cheese, every spoonful bursts with creamy, cheesy delight and a touch of earthy freshness. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to make any day special. This soup delivers flavor, nutrition, and pure satisfaction all in one bowl, making it an absolute must-try for soup lovers everywhere.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to soup heaven. Each one plays a starring role in building the texture, flavor, and color that make this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe truly unforgettable.

• Butter (1-2 tablespoons): Adds richness and a smooth base for sautéeing your vegetables.
• Onion (1, diced): Brings sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor foundation.
• Carrots (2 medium, diced): Contribute a natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the soup with a gentle, aromatic zing.
• Chicken stock (4 cups): The flavorful liquid that simmers your vegetables tender while giving the soup body.
• Cornstarch (¼ cup): A simple thickening agent to give your soup that perfectly creamy consistency.
• Milk (1 cup): Adds smoothness and balances the richness of the cheese.
• Potatoes (2 large, peeled and chopped): Provide hearty texture and a comforting starchy base.
• Broccoli florets (16 ounces, fresh or frozen): The star veggie that lends freshness and a pop of green.
• Sharp cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded): Melts into the soup for cheesy, luscious flavor.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the delicious flavors in every bite.
• Ground pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick to balance the creaminess.

How to Make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Start by melting one to two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onions and cook until they soften and become translucent, about three minutes. Then add the diced carrots along with salt and pepper, cooking for another three to four minutes. Finally, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds—that burst of fragrance sets a fantastic base for the soup.

Step 2: Simmer Potatoes

Next, transfer the sautéed vegetables into a pot, add the peeled and chopped potatoes, and pour in the chicken stock. Cover the pot and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 10 minutes so the potatoes start to soften, preparing the soup for the addition of broccoli.

Step 3: Add Broccoli

Stir in your broccoli florets—fresh or frozen both work beautifully—and continue simmering until the broccoli and potatoes are tender and ready to melt in your mouth. This usually takes another 10 minutes. The potatoes should be soft enough to pierce easily with a fork at this stage.

Step 4: Thicken Soup

To achieve that luxuriously creamy texture, combine the cornstarch with milk in a small bowl until smooth and lump-free. Slowly stir this mixture into the hot soup. As it heats, it will thicken nicely, adding a velvety body to every spoonful.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Finally, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Watch as it melts into the soup, creating that irresistible cheesy richness that makes this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe so special. Give everything a good stir so the cheese blends seamlessly with the creamy broth.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is perfectly combined and your kitchen smells like heaven, ladle the soup into bowls and dig in immediately. The first spoonful is pure comfort, and every bite after keeps you cozy and satisfied.

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing elevates your soup from great to unforgettable. Sprinkle some extra shredded sharp cheddar cheese or crumbled crispy bacon on top for added texture and flavor. A scattering of freshly chopped chives or parsley adds a fresh, vibrant contrast and a pop of color that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, a warm baguette, or crisp garlic toast for dunking. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the cheese soup, making your meal well-rounded and satisfying without feeling too heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls for a rustic, charming presentation. You can also top it with a swirl of sour cream or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal. Presentation can make this comforting, wholesome soup feel like a special occasion treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover soup in airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week. Just give it a good stir before reheating to blend everything back together.

Freezing

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

Warm your leftover soup gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If it’s too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of milk or chicken stock to loosen it up and restore its creamy consistency. Avoid reheating at high heat to keep that velvety texture intact.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just swap the chicken stock for a rich vegetable broth, and your soup will retain all its flavor and comforting qualities without the meat-based stock.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe and can be a convenient time-saver. Just add it directly into the pot during the simmering step, and cook until tender.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for that classic cheesy flavor and smooth melt, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.

How thick should the soup be?

The soup should be creamy and thick enough to coat a spoon but still pourable. If it feels too heavy, thin it with a bit of milk or stock; if too thin, simmer a little longer to reduce it down.

Can I make this soup vegan?

With a few substitutions like using plant-based butter, vegetable broth, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese, you can definitely create a vegan version that’s just as satisfying and delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that warms the soul and satisfies every craving for comfort food. It’s the kind of soup you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a cozy night in or to impress friends and family with something homemade and hearty. Give it a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a beloved classic in your kitchen!

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