Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal? Our cheddar broccoli potato soup recipe is the perfect choice for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. This creamy soup combines the rich flavors of cheese and vegetables, making it a delightful option for any occasion. With its hearty ingredients and smooth texture, this cheddar broccoli potato soup stands out as a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe only takes about 55 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and heavy cream gives this soup an indulgent taste that everyone will love.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and potatoes, this soup provides essential vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it as a main dish or alongside your favorite bread for a complete meal that satisfies.
• Easily Customizable: You can add more vegetables or swap out the cheeses to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, you will need some essential tools. Having these on hand will help you create the best cheddar broccoli potato soup possible.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Ladle
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking the soup base, allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Whisk: Ensures that the flour mixes well with the milk without any lumps, creating a smooth consistency.

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Ingredients

• 5 1/2 tbsp butter, divided
• 1 1/3 cups chopped carrots (about 3)
• 1 cup chopped celery (2 stalks)
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion (1 small)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 1/2 cups peeled and cubed russet potatoes, cut 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thick (2 large)
• 3 cups chopped broccoli florets (from about 2 heads)
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (preferably 1% or 2%)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (8 oz)
• 1/3 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese (1 oz)

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
* Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion; sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened.
* Stir in minced garlic; sauté another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broth and Potatoes

Stir in low-sodium chicken broth, cubed potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
* Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Broccoli

Add chopped broccoli florets to the pot.
* Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Prepare Cream Mixture

In a separate saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat.
* Whisk in all-purpose flour; cook for about one minute while stirring constantly.
* Slowly add milk while whisking until no lumps remain. Cook until thickened.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Stir the thickened cream mixture into the soup.
* Remove from heat; mix in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and finely shredded parmesan cheese until melted.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the soup warm and enjoy each comforting bowl of cheddar broccoli potato goodness!

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Cheddar broccoli potato soup is a hearty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a main course or part of a larger meal, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread will soak up the delicious flavors of the soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with chopped parsley or chives. This adds a fresh touch and enhances the visual appeal of the dish.

With a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a light green salad with vinaigrette dressing. This provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

In Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive presentation and adds flavor to every bite.

With Shredded Cheese

• Top each serving with additional shredded cheese before serving. Let it melt slightly for an extra cheesy experience.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top can elevate the flavors of this comforting soup. It adds richness and depth.

How to Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Making the perfect cheddar broccoli potato soup requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Here are some ways to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality cheese make a significant difference in flavor.

• Cook potatoes until tender: Ensure that the potatoes are cooked through before adding other ingredients, which helps create a smooth texture.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup as you go, adjusting salt and pepper levels according to your preference.

• Blend for creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, consider blending part of the soup before adding the cheese.

• Add cheese gradually: Stir in cheese slowly off heat; this prevents it from clumping and ensures even melting.

• Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with cheddar broccoli potato soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up every bit of leftover soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the creamy consistency of the soup nicely.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add texture and flavor while keeping things healthy.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A warm grilled cheese sandwich is always a crowd-pleaser when served alongside this comforting soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers provide a nutritious contrast to the creamy soup.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the soup.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair well with savory soups, adding a delightful sweetness.
8. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges provide additional heartiness while keeping things simple and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup, it’s easy to miss a step or two. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not chopping vegetables evenly: Ensure that your carrots, celery, and potatoes are chopped to similar sizes. This helps them cook evenly and enhances the overall texture of the soup.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Add the broccoli towards the end of cooking. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its vibrant color.
• Skipping the roux step: The roux is crucial for thickening your soup. Don’t skip whisking in the flour with butter; it provides a creamy texture to the dish.
• Using cold milk: Always add milk at room temperature or warm it slightly. Cold milk can cause lumps in your soup when added directly.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste your soup as you go along. Adding salt and pepper gradually ensures balanced flavors throughout.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup.

Can I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup vegan?

Yes! You can substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

How can I customize my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach. You can also spice it up with red pepper flakes or serve it with crusty bread.

What’s the best way to thicken Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Using a roux made from butter and flour helps thicken the soup. If you prefer a gluten-free option, cornstarch mixed with water can work as a thickener too.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great alternative and saves time; just adjust cooking time as needed.

Final Thoughts

Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is a comforting dish that appeals to many taste buds. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it perfect for any meal. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch. Try this recipe today for a warm and satisfying bowl!