This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup is a rich and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese in a smooth, velvety texture. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of butter-sautéed onions, garlic, and creamy milk creates a depth of flavor, making it one of the best homemade soups you’ll ever try!
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup milk (whole or low-fat)
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Broth
- Stir in the diced potatoes and vegetable broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 3: Add Broccoli
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Alternatively, transfer in batches to a regular blender. Be cautious when blending hot liquids!
Step 5: Add Milk and Cheese
- Return the blended soup to the pot (if using a blender).
- Stir in the milk and grated cheddar cheese over low heat, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread, croutons, or a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or toasted sourdough.
- As a Starter: Perfect before a hearty meal like roasted chicken or steak.
- Topped with Croutons: Adds crunch and texture to the creamy soup.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Add Protein: Serve with grilled chicken or bacon bits for extra richness.
Cooking Tips
- For a Thicker Soup: Add an extra ½ cup of grated cheese or reduce the milk slightly.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk and a plant-based cheese alternative.
- For Extra Creaminess: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Chunky or Smooth? Blend completely for a smooth soup, or leave some chunks for texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in Fiber & Vitamins: Broccoli and potatoes provide fiber, vitamins C & K, and antioxidants.
- High in Calcium & Protein: Cheddar cheese and milk offer calcium for strong bones.
- Low in Fat (if using low-fat milk): A healthy, nutritious alternative to heavy cream-based soups.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly
- Gluten-Free (ensure broth and cheese are GF-certified)
- Can Be Made Dairy-Free (use plant-based milk & cheese)
- Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes.
- Creamy & Comforting: A warm, cozy dish for any time of the year.
- Customizable: Add extra veggies, cheese, or protein to make it your own.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Freezes well for a convenient future meal.
Recipe Conclusion
This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Whether you serve it as a starter, main course, or side dish, this soup will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious homemade soup that’s both healthy and indulgent!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Yes! Frozen broccoli works just as well. Just add it directly to the soup without thawing.
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What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
- Try Gouda, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or Gruyère for different flavors.
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Can I make this soup vegan?
- Yes! Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese.
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What’s the best way to thicken the soup?
- Add more cheese, reduce the broth slightly, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
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How do I make it spicy?
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce.
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Can I add meat to this soup?
- Yes! Crispy bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken are great additions.
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What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
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Can I make this soup ahead of time?
- Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend.
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What’s a good substitute for potatoes?
- Cauliflower works well as a low-carb option.
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Can I make this without blending?
- Yes! Just mash some of the potatoes and broccoli for a chunkier texture.
This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup is warm, cozy, and bursting with flavor. Try it today for a hearty, homemade meal that’s both easy and delicious! 🥦🧀🥔