Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal? Our cheddar broccoli potato soup recipe is the perfect choice! This rich and creamy soup is not only easy to make but also ideal for various occasions, from family dinners to cozy nights in. Packed with flavors of sharp cheddar and fresh broccoli, this dish stands out for its heartiness and warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This soup warms you up on chilly days and satisfies your hunger.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, anyone can whip up this flavorful dish in just over 50 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home, making it a flexible recipe.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
• Great Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy it for lunch or dinner later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking the soup base, allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Saucepan: Perfect for making the roux that thickens the soup, ensuring a creamy texture.
• Whisk: Essential for blending flour into milk smoothly without lumps.

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: Melt Butter

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion; sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Then add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Add Broth and Potatoes

Stir in low-sodium chicken broth, peeled cubed russet potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Add Broccoli

Add chopped broccoli florets to the pot; cook for an additional 5 minutes until tender.

Step 6: Make Roux

In a separate saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour; cook for about one minute while stirring constantly.

Step 7: Add Milk

Slowly add milk while whisking until no lumps remain. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, then stir in heavy cream before removing from heat.

Step 8: Combine Mixtures

Pour the thickened mixture into the soup; stir well to combine everything thoroughly.

Step 9: Add Cheeses

Remove from heat again; mix in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and finely shredded parmesan cheese until melted.

Final Step: Serve

Serve your warm cheddar broccoli potato soup right away. Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful dish!

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

This cheddar broccoli potato soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. A baguette or sourdough loaf adds a delightful crunch.

Topped with Green Onions

• Sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving. They add a fresh flavor and a pop of color.

With a Side Salad

• Serve the soup alongside a light salad. A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

Garnished with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle more shredded cheddar cheese on top. It melts beautifully and enhances the cheesy flavor.

Adding Croutons

• Top your soup with homemade or store-bought croutons for added texture. They provide a satisfying crunch in every bite.

How to Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Achieving the perfect cheddar broccoli potato soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese greatly improve the soup’s flavor and texture.
• Control the Thickness: Adjust the amount of flour based on how thick you prefer your soup. Less flour results in a lighter consistency.
• Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning with salt and pepper as you cook. Taste frequently to find your ideal balance.
• Blend for Smoothness: If you like a creamier texture, consider blending part of the soup before adding the cheese.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese for varied flavors, such as gouda or Monterey jack in addition to cheddar.

Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Complementing your cheddar broccoli potato soup with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds flavor and is perfect for dipping.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice make a nutritious pairing.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring out natural sweetness and offer great texture contrast.
4. Cheese Quesadillas: Simple cheese quesadillas provide another cheesy option that kids will love.
5. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad contributes crispness and tanginess that complements the creamy soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful counterbalance to savory flavors in the soup.
7. Potato Wedges: Crisp potato wedges seasoned with herbs can be enjoyed alongside for extra satisfaction.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad introduces brightness to your meal, balancing out the rich flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making cheddar broccoli potato soup, there are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of for the best results.

• Skipping the Sauteing Step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a lack of flavor. Always start by sautéing your carrots, celery, and onion to build a rich base for your soup.
• Using Too Much Broccoli: Overloading on broccoli can make the soup too chunky or bitter. Stick to the recommended amount for balanced flavor and texture.
• Not Whisking Properly: Failing to whisk the flour into the butter can create lumps in your soup. Make sure to whisk continuously until smooth before adding liquids.
• Ignoring Consistency: If the soup is too thick or thin, adjust with more broth or milk as needed. Use this method to achieve your desired consistency.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: Adding cheese while the soup is still boiling can cause it to become grainy. Wait until you remove the soup from heat before mixing in the cheese.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cheddar broccoli potato soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making cheddar broccoli potato soup, here are some common questions answered.

Can I use other types of cheese in Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

You can substitute other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère, but cheddar adds a distinctive sharp flavor that complements the broccoli well.

How do I make my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, add more flour during the roux step or blend a portion of the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot.

What can I serve with Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even grilled sandwiches for a complete meal.

Can I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer as instructed above.

Final Thoughts

Cheddar broccoli potato soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness any day of the week!