If you're in search of a comforting, hearty, and creamy soup recipe, look no further! This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is the ultimate bowl of warmth, packed with nutritious veggies and cheesy goodness. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with a cozy meal, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Read on to find out how you can prepare this crowd-pleasing dish in the comfort of your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!

What is Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is a thick, creamy, and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of tender broccoli, soft potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese. This soup offers the perfect balance between cheesy richness and the earthy goodness of fresh vegetables. It’s an ideal dish for any season, but it shines especially in the cooler months when you're craving something warm and filling. Let’s break down the key components of this delicious soup and how they come together to create an irresistible flavor profile.
Ingredients List for Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a delicious pot of Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup:
- 1-2 tablespoons butter: For sautéing the vegetables and adding a rich, buttery flavor to the soup.
- 1 onion (diced): Adds a slightly sweet and savory base to the soup.
- 2 medium carrots (diced): Adds natural sweetness and extra nutrients.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Provides an aromatic punch and enhances the overall flavor.
- 4 cups chicken stock: The liquid base for the soup; you can also substitute with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
- ¼ cup cornstarch: Used to thicken the soup, giving it a smooth, creamy texture.
- 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess to the soup. Feel free to use whole milk, 2%, or even non-dairy milk for a lighter or plant-based option.
- 2 large potatoes (peeled and chopped into ½-inch cubes): These add bulk and heartiness to the soup, as well as a subtle starchy flavor.
- 16 ounces broccoli florets (fresh or frozen): The star of the show! Broccoli adds a slightly bitter, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The key to that luscious, cheesy flavor. Sharp cheddar gives the soup a tangy kick.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall taste.
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and depth.
Substitutions and Variations
This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is versatile and can be adapted to suit your dietary preferences or ingredients you have on hand. Here are some substitution ideas:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken stock for vegetable broth, and you’ll have a completely vegetarian dish.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese to make this soup vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses cornstarch instead of flour as the thickening agent.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding diced cooked chicken or crumbled bacon.
- Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk to lighten up the dish without sacrificing flavor.
- Different Cheese: While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, mozzarella, or even Parmesan for a different flavor twist.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients prepped, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these simple steps for a rich, creamy, and utterly delicious Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup.

How to Cook Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Sauté the Vegetables: Begin by melting 1-2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots and sauté until the onions are translucent and the carrots are slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the 4 cups of chicken stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, add the peeled and chopped potatoes to the pot. Let everything cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Cook the Broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets (whether fresh or frozen) and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes. The broccoli should be tender but still have a slight bite to it.
- Prepare the Thickening Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the ¼ cup cornstarch and 1 cup of milk until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the soup, stirring continuously. This will help thicken the soup without any lumps.
- Add Cheese and Season: Lower the heat to medium-low, and slowly stir in the 1½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until fully melted and incorporated. Be sure to stir frequently to avoid clumping. Season the soup with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of ground pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup. If you like a chunkier soup, you can skip this step or blend only half the soup to keep some texture from the veggies.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the soup has reached your desired consistency and the cheese is fully melted, remove the pot from the heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with extra shredded cheese, croutons, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Make sure to keep an eye on the broccoli and potatoes so they don’t become mushy. You want them tender, but not falling apart.
- Not Using Enough Cheese: Don’t skimp on the cheese! The sharp cheddar is what gives this soup its rich flavor.
- Curdling the Milk: Avoid adding the milk over high heat, as it can curdle. Always add milk over medium or low heat and stir frequently.
- Not Thickening the Soup: If you skip the cornstarch step, your soup may end up too thin. Make sure to add the cornstarch mixture for a thicker, more luscious texture.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A beautifully presented bowl of soup can turn a simple meal into something special. Here’s how to serve and present your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup for maximum appeal.
How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
- In a Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of sourdough or other crusty bread and serve the soup inside for an impressive, edible serving dish.
- With a Side of Crusty Bread: A warm, crunchy baguette or a slice of garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy soup.
- Topped with Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons add a satisfying crunch to every bite.
- With a Side Salad: A light, crisp salad is a great accompaniment to balance out the richness of the soup.
Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
- Garnish with Extra Cheese: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar on top gives the soup an extra cheesy finish.
- Fresh Herbs: Add a pop of color and flavor by sprinkling fresh parsley, chives, or even dill over the top.
- Swirl of Cream: For a restaurant-quality presentation, drizzle a bit of heavy cream or sour cream in a swirl pattern on the surface of the soup.
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- Add Spices: If you want to amp up the flavor, try adding a pinch of paprika, cayenne pepper, or ground mustard for a little extra kick.
- Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a velvety texture, blend the entire soup until smooth. For a chunkier version, blend only half the soup or skip blending altogether.
- Make It Ahead: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and the flavors deepen as it sits. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I freeze Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! However, dairy-based soups can sometimes change in texture when frozen. To prevent this, allow the soup to cool completely before freezing, and thaw it slowly in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just as well in this recipe. You don’t even need to thaw it before adding it to the soup.
How can I make this soup lighter?
To make a lighter version, use low-fat milk, reduce the amount of cheese, or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also skip the butter and sauté the vegetables in a little bit of olive oil.
What other cheeses can I use?
If sharp cheddar isn’t your favorite, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese for a tangy twist.
Conclusion
There’s nothing like a warm bowl of Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup to comfort you after a long day. It’s a perfect blend of nutritious vegetables, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese, all in one pot. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just learning your way around the kitchen, this recipe is simple, delicious, and sure to impress. Try it out, and don't be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your household!
Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and enjoy the smiles when they take that first bite!
PrintBroccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe
This broccoli potato cheese soup recipe blends rich cheddar, hearty potatoes, and fresh broccoli. Easy to make and full of flavor, it's perfect for a cozy meal on a cool day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1-2 Tablespoons butter
- 1 diced onion
- 2 medium diced carrots
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 4 cups chicken stock
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large peeled and chopped potatoes (½-inch cubes)
- 16 oz broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and carrots, sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in chicken stock, add potatoes, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch into milk, then stir into the soup.
- Add broccoli and cook until tender.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can adjust the thickness by adding more milk or chicken stock.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
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