Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: broccoli potato cheese soup! It’s creamy, it’s delicious, and it warms my heart like a big hug on a chilly day. I remember the first time I whipped up a batch on a rainy afternoon – the aroma of sautéing onions and garlic filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dive in. This soup is the perfect blend of tender broccoli, hearty potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese that creates the ultimate cozy bowl of goodness. What I love most is how simple it is to make, yet it feels like a gourmet treat. Trust me, once you try this broccoli potato cheese soup, you’ll be coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).
Ingredients List
To create this delightful broccoli potato cheese soup, you’ll need the following ingredients, all ready to bring you that creamy, comforting bowl of goodness:
- 2 cups broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups potatoes, diced into small cubes
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (feel free to use sharp for more flavor!)
- 1 onion, chopped (the sweeter, the better!)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought, your choice)
- 1 cup milk (you can use whole or a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for that rich, buttery flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (not too much, but enough to elevate those flavors!)
Gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You’re going to love how they come together to create something truly special.
How to Prepare Instructions
Making this creamy broccoli potato cheese soup is super simple and oh-so-rewarding! Just follow these steps, and you’ll be savoring a delicious bowl in no time:
- Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. You want it just melted and bubbly, not browned.
- Once the butter’s melted, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3-5 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The aroma is heavenly!
- Add the diced potatoes and chopped broccoli to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3 minutes. This helps the veggies get a nice little head start on cooking.
- Now, pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil – this is where the magic starts to happen!
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily poke them with a fork.
- With everything tender and delicious, it’s time to purée the soup! You can use an immersion blender right in the pot or carefully transfer it to a regular blender in batches. Blend until it’s smooth and creamy. Wow, look at that texture!
- Next, stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep the soup on low heat, cooking just until the cheese is completely melted and everything is heated through. Yum!
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t skimp on this step; it really brings all the flavors to life!
- Serve the soup hot, and enjoy every spoonful of this comforting goodness!
And there you have it! A bowl of broccoli potato cheese soup that’s sure to warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. Dive in and relish the creamy, cheesy delight you’ve just created!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This broccoli potato cheese soup is not just delicious; it’s packed with perks that make it a must-try! Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this cozy classic:
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a comforting bowl ready in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Great Taste: The combination of creamy cheddar, tender broccoli, and hearty potatoes creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Seriously, every spoonful is a delight!
- Health Benefits: Packed with nutritious vegetables, this soup is a great way to sneak some greens into your diet. Broccoli is loaded with vitamins, and the potatoes provide a satisfying bite.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize! You can easily add more veggies, switch up the cheese, or even spice it up with some hot sauce for a little kick. The possibilities are endless!
- Freezes Well: Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for a quick meal later. Just reheat and enjoy whenever the craving strikes!
Trust me, once you try this broccoli potato cheese soup, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen and your heart!
Tips for Success
Ready to take your broccoli potato cheese soup to the next level? Here are some expert tips that’ll help you perfect this cozy recipe and make it uniquely yours!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and new potatoes make a world of difference in flavor and texture. When you can, skip the frozen stuff and go for the vibrant, crisp produce. You’ll taste the difference!
- Cheese Selection: While cheddar is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment! Try using Gruyère for a nutty flavor or pepper jack if you like a little spice. Mixing different cheeses can create a depth of flavor that’s just divine.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reserve a cup of the cooked potato and broccoli before blending. Mash it up with a fork and stir it back in for extra heartiness. Conversely, if you want it thinner, just add more vegetable broth or milk until it’s perfect for you!
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick! A little cayenne pepper can also add a warm depth that pairs beautifully with the cheesy goodness.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon or a dollop of sour cream on top can elevate your soup to a whole new level. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley also add a pop of color and freshness.
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Letting your onions and garlic sauté until they’re soft and fragrant is key. This step builds a flavorful foundation that enhances the entire soup.
With these tips in hand, you’re all set to create a broccoli potato cheese soup that’s not just good but absolutely unforgettable! Enjoy the process and make it your own!
Variations
Looking to switch things up with your broccoli potato cheese soup? You’re in luck! There are so many fun and delicious variations you can try that’ll keep this comforting dish fresh and exciting. Here are some creative ideas to inspire you:
- Seasonal Veggies: Swap out the broccoli for other vegetables based on what’s in season! Try using spinach, kale, or even cauliflower for a different flavor profile. Each veggie brings its unique twist to the soup!
- Herbed Delight: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost. Just toss them in during the simmering stage to let those flavors meld beautifully with the soup.
- Spicy Kick: Add a bit of heat by including diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even blend in some chipotle for a smoky flavor that’ll elevate your soup to new heights!
- Cheesy Medley: Experiment with different cheeses beyond cheddar! A mix of mozzarella for stretchiness and gouda for a smoky flavor can create a delightful creamy combination. You could even try a sprinkle of feta for a tangy touch!
- Protein Boost: Want to make it heartier? Stir in some cooked, shredded chicken or crumbled sausage for added protein. Plant-based eaters can opt for chickpeas or lentils to give the soup an extra punch of goodness.
- Nutty Flavor: Toss in some roasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch. Not only do they add texture, but they also bring a rich, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the soup.
- Fun Add-Ins: Try adding a splash of white wine during the sautéing stage for depth of flavor, or stir in some cooked quinoa for added nutrition and a different mouthfeel!
These variations are just the beginning! Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste buds. The beauty of this broccoli potato cheese soup is that it’s so adaptable – you can truly make it your own every time. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers from your delicious broccoli potato cheese soup? Don’t worry, it’s super easy to store and reheat so you can enjoy that comforting goodness again! Here’s how to do it right:
Storing Leftovers: First things first, let the soup cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, transfer it into an airtight container. I like to use glass containers because they keep things fresh and are microwave-safe. You can store the soup in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, go ahead and freeze it! Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand as it freezes.
Reheating the Soup: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is a breeze! If it’s in the fridge, you can simply pour it into a pot and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. This method helps maintain that creamy texture. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl. Just cover it loosely with a paper towel to prevent splatters and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot.
If you’ve frozen your soup, you can either thaw it overnight in the fridge or run the container under warm water to loosen it up. Then, reheat it on the stove just like before. Sometimes, I like to add a splash of milk or broth while reheating to bring back that creamy consistency if it thickens up too much in the fridge or freezer.
And there you go! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your broccoli potato cheese soup anytime the craving hits. Enjoy every spoonful!
Nutritional Information Section
As you whip up this creamy broccoli potato cheese soup, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional information for a serving (1 cup) of this delightful soup:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Sugar: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Feel free to tweak the recipe or ingredients to fit your dietary needs, and enjoy every flavorful bite of this comforting soup!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli for this broccoli potato cheese soup?
While fresh broccoli brings a lovely texture and flavor, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli in a pinch! Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup to avoid excess moisture. The soup will still taste great!
Q2: What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
If cheddar isn’t your thing, don’t worry! There are plenty of delicious alternatives. Try using Gruyère for a nutty flavor, or even Monterey Jack for something milder. You can also mix different cheeses to create a unique taste that suits your palate.
Q3: How can I make this soup vegan?
Making a vegan version of broccoli potato cheese soup is easy! Simply substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat, and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. You can also replace the butter with olive oil or vegan butter. It’ll be just as comforting!
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! This soup is super versatile. You can add carrots, celery, or even spinach for extra nutrients. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes so they cook evenly. Feel free to get creative with whatever veggies you have on hand!
Q5: How should I store this soup?
Leftovers can easily be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it! Just remember to leave some room for expansion in the container. Reheat whenever you want to enjoy this cozy treat again!
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup: 7 Reasons to Love This Comfort Classic
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and delicious broccoli potato cheese soup.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli, chopped
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add potatoes and broccoli, stir for a few minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Purée the soup until smooth.
- Stir in milk and cheese, cook until cheese melts.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use low-fat cheese for a lighter version.
- Add more vegetables as desired.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: broccoli potato cheese soup







