Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal? Look no further than our cheddar broccoli potato soup recipe. This delightful soup brings together creamy textures, hearty potatoes, and vibrant broccoli, making it the perfect dish for chilly days or cozy family dinners. It’s easy to prepare and can be served as a main course or appetizer, suitable for both casual gatherings and special occasions. The balance of flavors will keep everyone coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Filling: This soup is not only delicious but also filling, making it a perfect choice for lunch or dinner.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a warm bowl of soup ready in no time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like broccoli and carrots, this soup is a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a starter or main dish, this recipe can easily be customized with different cheeses or additional veggies.
• Freezes Well: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for those busy nights when you need something quick and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious cheddar broccoli potato soup, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Proper preparation will ensure the cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Ladle
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup base evenly without overcrowding.
• Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly when adding milk to avoid lumps.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables accurately.

Ingredients

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal? Look no further than our cheddar broccoli potato soup recipe.

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 the Butter

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat until bubbly.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add chopped carrots, chopped celery, and chopped yellow onion to the pot. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Broth and Potatoes

Pour in low-sodium chicken broth along with peeled and cubed russet potatoes. Season with dried thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 5: Boil Then Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Add Broccoli Florets

Stir in chopped broccoli florets and cook for an additional five minutes until tender.

Step 7: Prepare the Roux

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

Step 8: Add Milk Slowly

Slowly add milk while whisking continuously until there are no lumps remaining.

Step 9: Thicken the Mixture

Continue cooking until the mixture has thickened. Stir in heavy cream before removing from heat.

Step 10: Combine Mixtures

Carefully add the thickened mixture to the soup in the large pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 11: Add Cheeses

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

Step 12: Serve

Serve the soup warm in bowls. Enjoy this hearty cheddar broccoli potato soup with your favorite bread on the side!

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving cheddar broccoli potato soup can enhance your dining experience. This creamy and flavorful soup pairs well with various accompaniments that complement its rich taste.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked bread, like a baguette or sourdough, is perfect for dipping into the soup.

Topped with Green Onions

• Add sliced green onions on top for a burst of color and a mild onion flavor.

With a Side Salad

• A light garden salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.

Garnished with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top for an extra cheesy experience.

With Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream can add a creamy tang that enhances the overall flavor.

How to Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Perfecting your cheddar broccoli potato soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to make it even better:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and potatoes will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to suit your palate.

• Choose Quality Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for a more robust flavor in your soup.

• Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a creamier consistency, use an immersion blender before adding the cheeses.

Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with cheddar broccoli potato soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the soup’s creaminess perfectly.

2. Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad adds crunch and richness that balances out the soup.

3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic combination of grilled cheese and soup makes for a comforting meal.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide a healthy contrast to the creamy soup.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats offer a delightful mix of flavors alongside the soup.

6. Quiche: A slice of quiche can serve as a hearty addition, making it suitable for lunch or dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cheddar broccoli potato soup can be simple, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using too much salt: It’s easy to over-season your soup. Start with less salt and adjust at the end for better flavor control.
• Not cutting vegetables evenly: Uneven pieces can cook at different rates. Make sure all your veggies are similar in size for even cooking.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing your vegetables enhances their flavors. Don’t skip this crucial step; it makes a big difference in taste.
• Adding cheese too early: If you add cheese too soon, it may become grainy. Wait until after the soup has been thickened before stirring in the cheese.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Broccoli should be tender but still vibrant. Avoid cooking it too long to maintain its color and nutrients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Use microwave-safe containers, heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about cheddar broccoli potato soup:

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking.

How can I customize cheddar broccoli potato soup?

You can add other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots, or even proteins like chicken for extra heartiness.

What is the best cheese for this soup?

While sharp cheddar is perfect, you can also mix in gouda or Monterey Jack for added creaminess and flavor.

Is cheddar broccoli potato soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Final Thoughts

Cheddar broccoli potato soup is a comforting dish that warms both body and soul. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is!