Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal? Look no further than our cheddar broccoli potato soup recipe. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese with fresh broccoli and tender potatoes, creating a warm and satisfying option perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply need a quick weeknight meal, this soup will impress with its creamy texture and delightful taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This cheddar broccoli potato soup can be made in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of sharp cheddar and heavy cream creates a rich, luscious soup that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy flavor and comforting texture, even the pickiest eaters will love this dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference when preparing your cheddar broccoli potato soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without splattering. It gives ample space for all ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when mixing flour with milk, ensuring no lumps remain in your creamy base.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors perfectly in this cheddar broccoli potato soup.

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Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious cheddar broccoli potato soup:

• 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 Aromatics

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion; sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Incorporate Garlic

Add minced garlic; sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Potatoes

Stir in low-sodium chicken broth, cubed potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 5: Cook Until Tender

Reduce heat, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Add Broccoli

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

Step 7: Prepare Creamy Mixture

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

Step 8: Create Sauce Base

Slowly add milk while whisking until no lumps remain; continue cooking until thickened. Stir in heavy cream and remove from heat.

Step 9: Combine Mixtures

Pour the creamy mixture into the pot with the vegetables; stir well to combine.

Step10: Add Cheeses

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

Step11: Serve Warm

Serve your comforting cheddar broccoli potato soup warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving cheddar broccoli potato soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and textures. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this delicious soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread for dipping. The bread’s texture complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top before serving. This adds a burst of color and freshness to each bowl.

With a Side Salad

• A light garden salad or Caesar salad balances the richness of the soup. Choose your favorite dressing for an added flavor boost.

With Grated Cheese

• Serve additional shredded cheddar cheese on the side for those who want extra cheesy goodness. It melts beautifully into the warm soup.

Accompanied by Crackers

• Crisp, seasoned crackers can provide a satisfying crunch alongside the silky soup. Choose whole grain or herb-flavored varieties for extra taste.

How to Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

To achieve the ultimate cheddar broccoli potato soup, consider these handy tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh broccoli and quality cheese for the best flavor. Fresh vegetables enhance the taste and texture of your soup.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the soup simmer longer or add more flour to the mixture. This allows you to customize it to your liking.
• Blend for Smoothness: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend part of the soup after cooking. This creates a creamy base while still maintaining some chunky pieces.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add other spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a little kick. These can elevate the flavor profile of your soup.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain creaminess without curdling.

Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

While cheddar broccoli potato soup is hearty enough on its own, pairing it with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that pairs well with almost any soup, garlic bread is easy to make and adds rich flavors.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese tossed in Caesar dressing make for a refreshing contrast against creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies offer a healthy and colorful addition to your meal, full of nutrients and flavors.
4. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or quinoa can be a filling complement that also provides an extra serving of vegetables.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   A classic comfort food that’s perfect for dipping into your cheddar broccoli potato soup – try different cheeses for variety!
6. Potato Wedges
   Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs can serve as a fun finger food alongside your warm bowl of soup.
7. Quinoa Salad
   Light and nutritious, a quinoa salad made with fresh vegetables offers protein and fiber that makes it a great accompaniment.
8. Pita Chips with Hummus
   Crunchy pita chips served with hummus provide a delightful textural contrast while keeping things light and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take a few minutes to cook them first.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the balance of flavors and textures. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking broccoli for too long can make it mushy and lose its vibrant color. Add it towards the end of the cooking time for best results.
• Using low-quality cheese: In this recipe, using pre-shredded cheese may result in a less creamy texture. Opt for freshly shredded sharp cheddar for the best flavor and consistency.
• Not seasoning properly: A lack of seasoning can lead to bland soup. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Oven: Pour soup into an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup.

Can I use other vegetables in Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup vegan?

Substitute milk with plant-based milk and use vegan cheese alternatives for the cheese components.

What can I serve with Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Can I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day before serving, allowing flavors to meld beautifully overnight.

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to become a staple in your home!