Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl that feels like a big, cozy hug, then this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is exactly what you need. This soup blends the creamy richness of sharp cheddar cheese with tender potatoes and vibrant broccoli, creating a luscious texture and an irresistible flavor that’s hard to beat. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy vegetables in a heavenly, cheesy broth that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual family dinner, this soup is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component adds unique depth: from the sweetness of sautéed onions and carrots to the creamy cheese finish, everything works beautifully together to create that perfect bowl of warmth and flavor.

• Butter: Melts quickly and provides a rich base for sautéing the vegetables, creating that irresistible fragrant start.
• Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when softened just right.
• Carrots: Offer a hint of natural sweetness and a pop of color to brighten everything up.
• Garlic: Brings a gentle pungency that complements the other vegetables perfectly.
• Chicken Stock: Serves as a savory, flavorful liquid that ties everything together.
• Cornstarch: The secret to thickening the soup for a creamy texture without adding heaviness.
• Milk: Combines with cornstarch to create a smooth, velvety base for the soup.
• Potatoes: Provide a hearty, comforting body and a creamy softness once cooked.
• Broccoli Florets: The star vegetable, giving freshness, vibrant green color, and a gentle bite.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Delivers that rich, tangy cheesy flavor that transforms this soup into an indulgent treat.
• Salt and Ground Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other ingredients without overpowering them.

How to Make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by melting one to two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until the onions begin to soften and release their lovely aroma. Then toss in the diced carrots along with salt and pepper, continuing to sauté for another 3 to 4 minutes. Finally, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This step layers in sweetness and enhances the soup’s flavor profile from the very beginning.

Step 2: Simmer the Potatoes

Next up, transfer your softened vegetables to a large pot. Add the chopped potatoes and chicken stock. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, which allows the potatoes to start softening, soaking up the savory broth and merging flavors seamlessly.

Step 3: Add the Broccoli

Once the potatoes have had their time to cook, stir in the broccoli florets. Continue simmering everything together for another 10 minutes or until both the broccoli and potatoes are tender and just fork-tender. This ensures your soup is hearty but with just enough bite and texture to keep things interesting.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

While the veggies cook, whisk the cornstarch into the milk in a small bowl until totally smooth—this prevents any lumps. Then slowly stir this mixture into your hot soup pot. The heat will activate the cornstarch, gradually thickening the soup to a luscious, creamy consistency that feels indulgently satisfying.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Finally, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, letting it melt gently into the soup. This final step gives your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup that rich, cheesy flavor that makes every bite so comforting and crave-worthy. Stir thoroughly until smooth and serve it up hot!

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or green onions on top not only makes the soup look inviting but adds a refreshing bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese. A few small croutons or crispy bacon bits scattered on top also bring delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a warm, crusty bread or a soft dinner roll to mop up every last bit. A crisp, simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can add some freshness to the meal, balancing the rich, cheesy broth perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup in charming bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation that doubles as edible dishware. Another fun idea is to layer it in glass mugs or jars for a cozy and portable lunch option that feels extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days—ideal for quick weekday meals or reheating for family lunch.

Freezing

Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup freezes well if you want to stash it for later. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags. Leave some space at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture of the potatoes and broccoli might soften slightly after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. You may want to stir in a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much during storage. Reheating slowly keeps the cheese smooth and melty, preserving that comforting texture.

FAQs

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock?

Absolutely! Vegetable broth works just as well and is a great option for vegetarian versions of this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup. It still provides plenty of flavor without the meat base.

What type of potatoes are best for this soup?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are perfect because they cook up tender but hold their shape nicely, giving you a creamy yet chunky bowl of soup that’s so satisfying.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

You can definitely swap out the milk and cheese for dairy-free alternatives, like almond milk and vegan cheese, but be mindful that the cheese flavor is central to the recipe, so the taste will be a bit different but still delicious.

Is it possible to make this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Start by sautéing the veggies separately, then add everything to the slow cooker with the stock and potatoes. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cheese and milk mixture near the end to melt in smoothly.

How thick should the soup be?

The soup should be creamy and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, but still spoonable and comforting—not overly thick or gloopy. Adjust thickness to your liking by varying the amount of cornstarch or milk.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup truly feels like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for lifting your spirits any day of the week. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and bright vegetable notes, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again. Grab your ingredients and dive in—you’re just a few steps away from soup perfection!

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