Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup Recipe

Nothing screams comfort food quite like a rich, creamy, and hearty Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup. This soup brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables with the creamy, cheesy goodness of cheddar and parmesan. With each spoonful, you’re greeted with the robust flavors of broccoli, tender potatoes, and the perfect balance of cheddar cheese. Whether you're battling cold weather or just craving a warm meal, this soup will satisfy your hunger and bring a smile to your face.

If you're looking for an easy, homemade recipe that will impress your family and friends, you’ve come to the right place! Continue reading for all the details on how to make this incredible soup from scratch.

What is Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is a rich, thick soup featuring ingredients like broccoli, potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, and cheese in a creamy broth. It’s a comforting dish that combines the earthiness of broccoli with the hearty texture of potatoes and the sharp, tangy flavor of cheddar. This soup can be served as a main dish or as an appetizer for a multi-course meal. Perfect for chilly days, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

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Ingredients List for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this mouthwatering soup:

Vegetables:

• 1 ⅓ cups chopped carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
• 1 cup chopped celery (from 2 stalks)
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion (from 1 small onion)
• 3 cups chopped broccoli florets (from about 2 heads)
• 3 ½ cups peeled and cubed russet potatoes (cut into ½-inch to ¾-inch cubes, from about 2 large potatoes)

Aromatics and Seasoning:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Dairy and Cheese:

• 6 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (preferably 1% or 2%)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (8 oz)
• ⅓ cup finely shredded parmesan cheese (1 oz)

Other Ingredients:

• 5 ½ tablespoon butter, divided
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about soup recipes is how flexible they are. You can easily adapt this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup recipe to suit your personal tastes or dietary restrictions. Here are some substitution and variation ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup. The taste will remain just as savory and rich.
• Vegan Option: Replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative, the milk and cream with non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk), and use vegan cheeses. Nutritional yeast can also be added for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Gluten-Free: You can make this soup gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener.
• Cheese Substitutes: For a twist, swap out the cheddar for a combination of Gruyere or Monterey Jack. Or, for a spicy kick, use pepper jack cheese.
• Additional Vegetables: You can incorporate extra vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to add more nutrients and color to the soup.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup at home is a breeze when you follow these simple steps.

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by chopping the carrots, celery, onion, and broccoli florets. Peel and cube the russet potatoes, and mince the garlic cloves.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook these vegetables for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Potatoes and Broth: Pour in the 3 cups of chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes, broccoli, and ¼ teaspoon dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the vegetables to simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes and broccoli are tender.
4. Make the Roux: While the vegetables are cooking, melt the remaining 3 ½ tablespoons of butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the 6 tablespoons of flour to make a roux. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly, until it’s lightly golden.
5. Add Dairy: Gradually pour in the 3 cups of milk, whisking constantly to combine with the roux. Let the mixture cook until it thickens and begins to bubble, about 5 minutes. Then stir in the ½ cup heavy cream for added richness.
6. Combine Soup Base and Dairy Mixture: Slowly pour the thickened milk mixture into the soup pot with the vegetables, stirring to combine everything evenly.
7. Cheese Time!: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and ⅓ cup parmesan cheese until fully melted. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

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How to Cook Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Start by Preparing the Vegetables and Aromatics: Dice all your vegetables, ensuring uniformity so they cook evenly. Sauté aromatics like garlic, onion, celery, and carrots to develop rich base flavors.
2. Simmer the Vegetables and Potatoes: Let the cubed potatoes and broccoli simmer until they’re tender. This forms the body of your soup.
3. Make a Roux: Prepare a buttery roux to give the soup its velvety texture. This crucial step ensures the soup becomes thick and creamy.
4. Incorporate Dairy and Cheese: Add in milk, cream, and cheese to create the rich, cheesy flavor that defines this soup.
5. Finish and Serve: Combine everything and adjust seasoning before serving.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Roux: The roux helps thicken the soup, giving it a creamy texture. Don’t skip this step!
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cook your vegetables until tender but not mushy to avoid a soupy consistency. Overcooked vegetables can lead to a less flavorful dish.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: Wait to add the cheese until the soup is off the heat, or you risk the cheese becoming grainy or separating.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning. Cheese can be salty, so be mindful when adding salt.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

For an impressive presentation, consider these serving ideas:

• Garnish with Extra Cheese: Sprinkle some extra cheddar or parmesan on top of each bowl right before serving.
• Add Croutons or Bacon: Crispy croutons or crumbled bacon add texture and extra flavor to the soup.
• Serve in Bread Bowls: For a rustic touch, hollow out small loaves of sourdough bread and use them as edible bowls.

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How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Serve this soup hot with a crusty slice of bread or a fresh salad on the side. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or a dash of paprika adds a pop of color to each bowl. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a light beer for a more formal meal.

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Presentation Ideas for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Bread Bowls: Serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls gives a cozy and rustic feel.
• Garnish with Herbs: Freshly chopped chives or parsley add a beautiful, vibrant contrast to the creamy soup.
• Drizzle of Cream: A swirl of heavy cream on top of each serving adds an elegant touch.

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Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and good-quality cheddar will make a world of difference in flavor.
• Blend for a Smoother Texture: If you prefer a smoother soup, you can blend half of the mixture with an immersion blender or standard blender.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
2. Can I freeze Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup? You can, but soups with dairy don’t always freeze perfectly. If freezing, consider omitting the cream and cheese, and adding them when reheating.
3. What should I serve with this soup? Crusty bread, garlic bread, or a light green salad pair perfectly with this rich soup.

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Conclusion

There’s nothing more comforting on a chilly day than a warm bowl of Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup. With its creamy texture, savory ingredients, and cheesy finish, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. From choosing the freshest ingredients to carefully following the step-by-step instructions, this recipe guarantees delicious results. Whether you're feeding the family or serving guests, this soup is an all-time winner.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and try this recipe today! Happy cooking!

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