Arone H When the weather turns chilly or you’re craving comfort in a bowl, a hearty soup like Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Soup is the perfect go-to meal. This dish combines tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese into a rich and satisfying soup that’s as nutritious as it is indulgent. It’s an easy-to-make dinner idea, ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a warm, homemade meal.
Packed with vegetables and protein, this soup is versatile, customizable, and sure to please both kids and adults alike. Let’s explore everything you need to know to create this delectable dish, from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to serving suggestions and tips for storing leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in a Bowl: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it the ultimate comfort food.
- Quick and Easy: It comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknights.
- Nutritious: Packed with broccoli, carrots, and potatoes, this soup offers fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the recipe to fit dietary preferences, like making it vegetarian or gluten-free.
Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Soup
For the Soup Base:
- 4 medium potatoes – peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes.
- 2 cups broccoli florets – fresh or frozen.
- 2 large carrots – peeled and sliced into thin rounds.
- 1 medium onion – finely chopped.
- 3 garlic cloves – minced.
- 3 cups vegetable broth – low-sodium for better flavor control.
- 2 cups milk – whole milk or plant-based alternative (like almond or oat milk).
For the Cheesy Finish:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp or medium.
- 2 tablespoons butter.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – or gluten-free flour.
- Salt and black pepper – to taste.
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or thyme.
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese.
- Crumbled bacon or crispy croutons.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by peeling and chopping your potatoes, slicing the carrots, chopping the onion, and mincing the garlic. If using fresh broccoli, cut it into small, bite-sized florets. This preparation will make cooking the soup seamless.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This step builds the flavorful base for your soup.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This mixture will help thicken your soup as it cooks.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Once the milk is smooth, pour in the vegetable broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Step 5: Cook the Potatoes and Carrots
Add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the vegetables simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 6: Incorporate the Broccoli
Stir in the broccoli florets and let them cook for an additional 5-7 minutes. The broccoli should be tender but still retain its vibrant green color.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until it’s fully melted and the soup achieves a creamy, luscious consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 8: Blend (Optional)
For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup while leaving some vegetable chunks intact. Alternatively, transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Soup
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated cheese for better melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Avoid Overcooking Broccoli: Add the broccoli near the end of cooking to maintain its vibrant color and slight crunch.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a larger portion or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
- Enhance Flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or nutmeg for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs wonderfully with:
- Warm, crusty bread: Perfect for dipping.
- Side salad: A light green salad with balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
- Sandwiches: Serve alongside a grilled cheese or turkey sandwich for a heartier meal.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works beautifully.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigeration:
Cool the soup completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Freezing:
Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Vitamin C: 50% of the Daily Value
- Calcium: 20% of the Daily Value
This soup is a well-rounded meal that offers plenty of nutrients while satisfying your cravings for comfort food.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works perfectly. Add it directly to the pot without thawing, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
2. How can I make this soup vegan?
Substitute butter with plant-based margarine, milk with almond or oat milk, and cheddar cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
3. Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely! Diced celery, cauliflower, or even leeks would complement the flavors of this soup.
4. What’s the best way to blend the soup?
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for convenience. If using a standard blender, work in small batches to avoid spills.
5. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! The flavors deepen when reheated, making it an excellent make-ahead meal.
Creative Variations
- Loaded Soup: Top with sour cream, chopped green onions, and crumbled bacon for a loaded baked potato vibe.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Extra Protein: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Add fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Soup is a timeless classic, combining rich flavors and wholesome ingredients into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, it’s guaranteed to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for cozy nights at home or impressing guests, this soup is as versatile as it is delicious. Try it today and experience the ultimate comfort food!
Let us know how your soup turned out or share your creative variations. Happy cooking!
