Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is just what you need. It’s one of those recipes that brings back memories of family gatherings and chilly nights spent together. The creamy texture combined with the hearty goodness of potatoes and broccoli makes every spoonful a delight. Plus, it’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet special enough for family get-togethers.

What I love most about this soup is how versatile it is. Whether you’re serving it on a cold winter evening or as a comforting lunch, it never fails to please. Gather your loved ones and enjoy a bowl of this cheesy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for those busy days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids adore the creamy cheese flavor, while parents appreciate the nutritious veggies.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and reheat when you’re ready to serve—perfect for meal prep!
• Comforting Flavor: The rich cheese combined with fresh broccoli and potatoes offers a warm hug in a bowl.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Simple, wholesome ingredients make this soup not only delicious but also nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the ingredients that make this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup so delicious! These are simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

For the Soup Base:

• 1-2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 2 large potatoes (peeled and chopped into ½-inch cubes)
• 16 ounces broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground pepper

For Thickening:

• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 cup milk

For Serving:

• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Variations

One of the best things about this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for an even more nutrient-packed soup.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick!
• Swap the Cheese: Try using Gruyère or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute butter with olive oil, use vegetable stock, plant-based milk, and dairy-free cheese.

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. This step is crucial as it releases the onion’s sweet flavor which forms the base of your soup.

Step 2: Add Carrots and Seasonings

Stir in the diced carrots along with salt and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re tender. The carrots add sweetness and color to your soup, making it even more inviting.

Step 3: Incorporate Garlic

Add minced garlic and sauté while stirring for about 30 seconds. Garlic brings an aromatic depth to your dish that elevates all those wonderful flavors!

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Stock

Now it’s time to add those chopped potatoes along with four cups of chicken broth. Cover and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Simmering allows the potatoes to cook through while absorbing all those lovely flavors.

Step 5: Bring in the Broccoli

After about ten minutes, add your broccoli florets into the mix. Continue simmering until both broccoli and potatoes are fork-tender—around another 10 minutes. This ensures everything is cooked perfectly without losing any vibrant color or nutrients!

Step 6: Thicken Your Soup

In a small bowl, stir cornstarch into one cup of milk until smooth. Then stir this mixture into your hot soup. This will help thicken your soup beautifully while keeping that creamy texture we all love.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Finally, stir in one and a half cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. This step transforms your soup into a cheesy delight that’s simply irresistible!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle your delicious Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup into bowls and enjoy! It’s perfect on its own or served with crusty bread on the side. Gather around with family or friends—it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Making this soup is simple and satisfying, but a few pro tips can elevate your experience!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and potatoes give the soup a vibrant flavor and texture. Frozen options are convenient, but fresh vegetables make a noticeable difference in taste.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer after adding the cornstarch mixture. For a thinner consistency, simply add more milk or broth until you reach your desired texture.

• Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is delicious, try mixing in some Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a unique flavor profile. Different cheeses can bring new dimensions to the taste of your soup.

• Add spices: A pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika can add depth to your soup’s flavor. Spices are great for personalizing the dish to your taste preferences.

• Make it ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheating is easy—just warm it up on the stove over low heat until heated through. A make-ahead option is perfect for busy weeknights!

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Serving this delightful soup is as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and meal experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a pop of color and mild onion flavor that enhances the soup’s richness.
• Croutons: Add crunchy homemade or store-bought croutons for texture contrast and extra heartiness.
• Extra cheese: Top each bowl with an additional sprinkle of shredded cheese right before serving, allowing it to melt slightly for that perfect cheesy finish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with soup, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette adds freshness to balance out the richness of the soup.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: The classic comfort food duo! Serve crispy grilled cheese alongside for dipping into your cheesy broccoli potato goodness.
• Vegetable sticks with hummus: Offer colorful vegetable sticks like carrots and bell peppers with hummus for a healthy crunch that makes a great appetizer before diving into your hearty soup.

Enjoy making this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup—it’s not just about eating; it’s about savoring every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness throughout the week. Here’s how to store it and keep it fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other vegetables in my Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like cauliflower or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup can last in the fridge for about 3-5 days.

Can I make a vegan version of Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?

Yes! Substitute dairy cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

What is the best way to thicken my Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?

Using cornstarch mixed with milk, as outlined in the recipe, is effective. If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply increase the amount of cornstarch slightly.

Is this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe suitable for kids?

Definitely! This creamy soup is not only kid-friendly but also a great way to sneak in some veggies while being deliciously cheesy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe as much as I do! It’s a lovely dish that warms both body and soul, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying alone on a cozy evening. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; I’m sure it’ll become a staple in your kitchen! Happy cooking and enjoy every spoonful!