Broccoli Potato Soup

This Broccoli Potato Soup is a creamy and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a comforting lunch, this soup is full of vibrant flavors and textures. The combination of broccoli and potatoes creates a satisfying base, while hints of cheese elevate it to a new level. It’s versatile enough for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices and seasonings makes each spoonful a delight.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this soup accessible even for beginner cooks.
• Nutrient-Packed: With broccoli and potatoes, this soup is both delicious and healthy.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer or a main course, paired with crusty bread.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare for some fun in the kitchen!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 4-quart soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Immersion blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• 4-quart soup pot: Ideal for cooking large batches of soup evenly.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables, enhancing prep speed.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 6 strips chicken bacon (drippings reserved)
• 3 tablespoons bacon drippings (can sub butter)
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• ¾ cup carrots (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (can sub Worcestershire sauce)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon EACH: dried parsley, mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

Thickening Agent

• ¼ cup flour

Broth Components

• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half

Vegetables

• Salt/Pepper (to taste)
• 1 ½ lbs. yukon gold potatoes (or red potatoes)
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

For Garnishing

• 1 ¼ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (grated)

How to Make Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Bacon

Cut the chicken bacon in half and place it in a 4-quart soup pot. Cook it slowly over low heat until crispy on each side. Reserve the drippings and set aside. Roughly chop the chicken bacon once cooled.

Step 2: Prep Your Ingredients

Measure out remaining ingredients while the chicken bacon cooks. Cut the broccoli florets into smaller bite-sized pieces. Don’t cut the potatoes until ready to use.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Carrots

Heat 3 tablespoons of bacon drippings (or butter) in the same soup pot over medium heat. Add onions and carrots; simmer until very softened and slightly caramelized, about 12 minutes.

Step 4: Add Spices

Add garlic, soy sauce, hot sauce, parsley, mustard powder, and oregano; cook for 1 minute. Stir in flour and cook for another 2 minutes while stirring continuously.

Step 5: Incorporate Liquid

Gradually add chicken broth in small splashes while stirring continuously. Follow by adding half-and-half in the same manner. Bring mixture to a boil then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Add Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and cut them into ¾-inch chunks. Season lightly with salt and pepper before adding them to your soup. Simmer partially covered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Mix in Broccoli

Add broccoli florets to the pot; continue simmering for an additional 7 minutes or until both potatoes are fork-tender and broccoli is cooked through.

Step 8: Blend if Desired

If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to pulse the soup a few times or transfer some of it to a blender.

Step 9: Stir in Cheese

Lower heat to low; gradually stir in cheese until melted and well combined. Mix half of the chopped chicken bacon into the soup.

Step 10: Final Adjustments

Taste your soup; add additional seasoning if desired. Garnish with remaining chicken bacon before serving!

Enjoy your deliciously warm Broccoli Potato Soup!

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving Broccoli Potato Soup can elevate your dining experience. Pair it with the right accompaniments for a fulfilling meal that will warm you up from the inside out.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
• Croutons – Crunchy croutons provide texture contrast and can be flavored to complement the soup.
• Shredded Cheese – A sprinkle of additional cheddar or even gouda on top enhances the cheesy goodness.

Bread Pairings

• Crusty Bread – Serve with a slice of crusty baguette or sourdough for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – The buttery garlic flavor complements the soup beautifully.
• Dinner Rolls – Soft, warm rolls can soak up the delicious broth.

Salad Accompaniments

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and a tangy flavor.
• Mixed Greens Salad – Lightly dressed mixed greens offer freshness that balances the creamy soup.

How to Perfect Broccoli Potato Soup

Perfecting your Broccoli Potato Soup involves mastering a few key techniques. Here are some tips to make your soup even more delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh broccoli and potatoes provide better flavor and texture than frozen options.
• Adjust Consistency – If you prefer a creamier soup, blend part of it for a smooth finish while leaving some chunks for texture.
• Season Gradually – Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper in increments to get just the right balance.
• Incorporate Flavor Enhancers – A splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end brightens the flavors significantly.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Broccoli Potato Soup can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Classic comfort food that complements the soup’s creaminess; try different cheeses for variety.
2. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad offers protein and fiber, making for a nutritious pairing.
3. Stuffed Peppers – Stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, or vegetables provide hearty satisfaction along with the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies enhance the meal with added nutrition and color.
5. Spinach Artichoke Dip – This savory dip served with pita chips makes a delightful starter before diving into your soup.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create an enjoyable crunch alongside your creamy soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Potato Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: If you cook the broccoli and potatoes for too long, they can become mushy. To avoid this, keep an eye on the cooking times and test them for doneness.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season your soup properly can lead to bland flavors. Don’t forget to taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Skipping the Cheese Gradually: Adding all the cheese at once can clump together. Gradually stir in the cheese until fully melted and combined for a smoother texture.
• Not Using Enough Broth: If you want a thicker soup, using too little broth can make it dry. Ensure you use enough broth to create a creamy consistency without overpowering other flavors.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold liquids directly into hot soup can lower the temperature too much. Always warm up your dairy or broth slightly before adding it in.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing the container.

Freezing Broccoli Potato Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Broccoli Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between until hot. Use a microwave-safe bowl with a lid.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until evenly heated, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Broccoli Potato Soup.

Can I make Broccoli Potato Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time! Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

What variations can I try with Broccoli Potato Soup?

You can add different vegetables like spinach or kale for more nutrition or use different cheeses for varied flavors.

How do I make Broccoli Potato Soup vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based cream instead of half-and-half.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe; just add it during the last few minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Potato Soup is not only comforting but also versatile! You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for busy weekdays. Give it a try today!