Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal? Look no further than our cheddar broccoli potato soup recipe. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings with family and friends. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and nutrient-packed ingredients, this dish will quickly become a favorite. It’s not just tasty; it’s also versatile and can be served as an appetizer or a main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cheddar broccoli potato soup comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, fresh broccoli, and tender potatoes creates a delightful taste that warms the soul.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like carrots and broccoli, this soup provides essential nutrients while still being indulgent.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, with crusty bread, or as a side dish to your favorite protein.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy taste make it appealing to even the pickiest eaters!

Tools and Preparation

Before you embark on making this delicious cheddar broccoli potato soup, gathering the right tools will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup base and combining all the ingredients effectively.
• Saucepan: Perfect for creating the roux that thickens the soup without clumps.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when adding milk to prevent lumps.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your cheddar broccoli potato soup:

Ingredients:
– 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: Melt the Butter

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat until it’s bubbly.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Potatoes

Pour in low-sodium chicken broth along with cubed potatoes. Add dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Cook the Potatoes

Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and cook for about 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Add Broccoli

Stir in the chopped broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until tender.

Step 7: Prepare Roux

In a separate saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, cooking for one minute while stirring constantly.

Step 8: Add Milk

Slowly add milk while whisking constantly until there are no lumps. Continue cooking until thickened.

Step 9: Combine Mixtures

Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream. Combine this thickened mixture into the main soup pot.

Step 10: Incorporate Cheese

Remove from heat again and mix in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and parmesan until melted completely.

Step 11: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls while warm and enjoy your hearty cheddar broccoli potato soup!

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serving Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors. This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and garnishes that elevate the dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough complements the creamy soup and is perfect for dipping.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and a fresh flavor.

With a Side Salad

• A light green salad with a vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds depth and richness, enhancing the overall taste.

With Cheese Toasts

• Cheese toasts made from your favorite bread are deliciously cheesy and offer a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.

How to Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

To make sure your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh broccoli and crisp carrots will give your soup vibrant flavors and textures.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before serving. You may want to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.

• Blend for creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, consider blending part of the soup before adding cheese.

• Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added flavor dimensions.

Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this hearty soup well.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a savory crunch that pairs nicely with the creamy soup.

2. Caesar Salad: This classic salad with romaine, croutons, and parmesan offers a tangy contrast to the richness of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and flavors to your meal.

4. Cornbread: Slightly sweet cornbread contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of the soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice, beans, or meat for a hearty addition that complements the soup’s creaminess.

6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide extra potato goodness while offering a satisfying crunch next to your creamy bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect cheddar broccoli potato soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your soup depends heavily on the quality of your ingredients. Always choose fresh vegetables and good-quality cheese.

• Overcooking Vegetables: If you cook the broccoli or potatoes too long, they can become mushy. Cook them just until tender for the best texture.

• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season your soup properly can lead to a bland dish. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

• Not Thickening Properly: If your soup is too thin, it won’t have the creamy texture you want. Make sure to follow the steps for thickening carefully.

• Ignoring Dairy Temperatures: Adding cold milk or cream directly into hot soup can cause curdling. Allow the dairy to come to room temperature before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cheddar broccoli potato soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Cheddar broccoli potato soup is a creamy and comforting dish made with fresh broccoli, tender potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for cold days.

Can I make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this soup ahead and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it for later use.

How do I customize Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

You can add other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots, substitute different cheeses, or even add some cooked chicken for extra protein.

Is Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup healthy?

This soup can be a healthy choice when made with low-fat dairy options and plenty of vegetables. It’s also rich in nutrients from broccoli and potatoes.

Final Thoughts

This cheddar broccoli potato soup is not only heartwarming but also versatile. You can customize it with various veggies or proteins while enjoying its creamy goodness. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!