Name: The Best Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 to 2 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken stock; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 cup milk; 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/2 inch cubes; 16 ounces broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper

Jump to Recipe

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy potatoes, tender broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese in a rich and flavorful broth. It’s perfect for chilly days when you crave something hearty and satisfying. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with a few basic ingredients coming together to create a soul-warming dish that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. You can adjust the cheese to your preference or even swap out the chicken broth for a vegetarian option. The creamy texture from the cornstarch and milk gives the soup that velvety feel, while the broccoli and carrots provide the right amount of crunch. This is one recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The potatoes give it a hearty base, while the broccoli adds freshness and a bit of crunch. The sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the soup, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or making it for meal prep, this soup is easy to customize and incredibly delicious. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist!

Ingredients

Butter
Onion (diced)
Carrots (diced)
Garlic (minced)
Chicken stock (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
Cornstarch
Milk
Potatoes (peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch cubes)
Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt
Ground pepper

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to swap sharp cheddar for other cheeses like Gouda, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.
Add-ins: You can add cooked bacon or sausage for an extra flavor boost, or try adding other vegetables like celery or leeks for added depth.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Melt 1 to 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Then, add the diced carrots, salt, and pepper, and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 2: Simmer Potatoes

Add the peeled and chopped potatoes to the skillet, followed by the chicken stock. Cover and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Broccoli

Stir in the broccoli florets and continue simmering until both the broccoli and potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes. The potatoes should be fork-tender at this point.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

In a small bowl, stir the cornstarch into the milk until smooth. Gradually add the mixture to the soup, stirring until the soup begins to thicken.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Once the soup has thickened, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted into the soup, creating a creamy texture.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the soup hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Consistency: If the soup turns out too thick, simply add a bit more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer the soup for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to give the soup a unique twist. A sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack would also work well.
Broth: For a richer taste, you can use chicken broth, but vegetable broth works just as well for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly option.

How to Serve

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is best served warm, accompanied by a slice of crusty bread or crackers for dipping. It’s also great as a starter to a larger meal or paired with a side salad for a lighter lunch or dinner. You can top it with extra shredded cheese, croutons, or even crispy bacon for added flavor and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the leftover soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken as it cools, so you can add a bit of milk or broth when reheating to bring it back to the desired consistency.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a little extra milk or broth to help restore the creamy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, place the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add more milk or broth if necessary to thin the soup to your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in place of fresh broccoli. Just make sure to add it when the potatoes are nearly tender.

2. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the milk and cheese with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk and dairy-free cheese.

3. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a bit of heat.

4. Can I add meat to this soup?

Absolutely! Adding cooked bacon, sausage, or chicken can make this soup even heartier.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, mozzarella, or a cheese blend.

6. How can I thicken the soup more?

If you want a thicker soup, you can add more cornstarch mixed with milk or let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to reduce.

7. Can I use other vegetables in this soup?

Yes, you can add vegetables like cauliflower, celery, or leeks for extra flavor and texture.

8. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the soup in a slow cooker by sautéing the vegetables first and then adding them to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

9. Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free broth and ensure the cornstarch is gluten-free, this soup is gluten-free.

10. Can I serve this soup in bread bowls?

Yes, this soup is perfect for serving in bread bowls. The creamy soup pairs wonderfully with a hearty bread.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is the perfect comfort food, combining the heartiness of potatoes, the freshness of broccoli, and the richness of melted cheddar cheese. Whether you enjoy it on a cold day or need a hearty meal for your family, this soup is sure to please. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and incredibly satisfying. Make it today and enjoy a bowl of cozy goodness!