Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines the richness of cheese with the comforting flavors of potatoes and vibrant broccoli. This creamy and hearty soup is not only easy to make but also wonderfully satisfying, making it a favorite for chilly days. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or hosting a gathering, this soup is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why We Love This Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup. First off, it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The creamy cheese pairs perfectly with the soft potatoes and crispy broccoli, creating a comforting dish that everyone loves. Moreover, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies, making it a popular choice for families. The soup is rich and hearty, yet surprisingly simple to prepare, allowing you to whip it up even on busy weeknights. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients about Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup
To create this delicious soup, gather the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and finely diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (2% or whole)
- 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 pound broccoli, florets chopped
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Sea salt, to taste
- Ground pepper, to taste
How to Make Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup Directions
Making Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup is a straightforward process that results in a comforting meal. Start by rinsing the carrots and potatoes under cold water. After that, peel and dice them into small, uniform pieces so that they cook evenly. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic before chopping the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
Next, take your large soup pot and melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the diced carrots and onion. Sauté these vegetables together until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. At this point, you should stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute, allowing its aroma to fill your kitchen.
Afterward, sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for about a minute to create a roux, which thickens the soup and adds a delicious depth of flavor. Then, it’s time to slowly pour in the vegetable broth and milk while stirring continuously to avoid any lumps. This step is crucial for achieving that smooth and creamy texture.
Once the broth and milk are well incorporated, add in the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. When it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for around five minutes. This will allow the potatoes to soften.
Season the mixture with sea salt and ground pepper to taste. After doing this, add in the chopped broccoli. Continue to simmer for another ten minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the broccoli has softened but retains some bite.
At this stage, remove the soup from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a luscious, cheesy consistency. Optional garnishes like more cheese, fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the presentation and flavor. Serve your Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup warm, and watch as everyone dives in!
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup
Serving Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup is a delightful experience that can elevate the meal even further. First, ladle the steaming soup into bowls. To make your presentation pop, consider garnishing with an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Fresh parsley can add a touch of color and freshness, while a dollop of sour cream adds creaminess.
Pair the soup with a warm, crusty baguette or toasted slices of sourdough for a comforting meal. Not only does this enhance the flavors, but it also provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the soup. For a complete meal, consider serving a side salad topped with light dressing. This balances the richness of the soup and adds a refreshing element to your dining experience. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a cozy gathering with friends, this dish is sure to please.
Expert Tips: Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup
To ensure your Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup turns out delicious every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to cut your vegetables into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and promotes a consistent texture throughout the soup.
When making the roux, be patient and stir constantly. This will prevent sticking and burning, leading to a wonderfully creamy base. If you prefer a smoother soup, consider using an immersion blender at the end of cooking. This will incorporate the ingredients further and create a velvety texture.
For added depth of flavor, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar provides a sharp, tangy taste, but feel free to try gouda, Monterey jack, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for different profiles. Finally, always taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning according to your palate, ensuring that the soup has just the right balance of flavors.
How to Store Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup
Storing Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup is easy and can be done to maintain its delicious flavor for later enjoyment. After preparing the soup, let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the soup to an airtight container. Make sure to use a container that can hold the entire batch to avoid excess air exposure.
You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion. In the freezer, your soup can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to maintain its creamy texture.
Variation of Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup
One of the great things about Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup is its versatility. You can create numerous variations to suit your preferences and dietary needs. For a lighter version, consider using low-fat milk or a plant-based milk alternative. This can reduce calories without sacrificing too much flavor.
If you want to spice things up, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to bring some heat to the dish. For a seafood twist, you could incorporate shrimp or crab meat, giving the soup an elegant touch. Alternatively, add in different vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for added nutrition and color. You can even include some cooked quinoa or rice to make the soup heartier and more filling. Each of these variations can provide a unique spin on the classic soup while maintaining its core flavors.
FAQ Section
What is Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup?
Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup is a creamy and hearty soup made with fresh broccoli, potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of seasonings. It’s a comforting dish perfect for chilly weather.
Can I use frozen broccoli in this soup?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh broccoli. However, add it towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking and maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
How long can I keep Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup in the fridge?
You can store Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I make Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance, making it ideal for meal prep. Prepare the soup, let it cool, and store it in the fridge or freezer. Reheat it gently when you’re ready to enjoy it.
What can I serve with Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup?
Serve Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup with crusty bread, a simple salad, or your favorite sandwich for a satisfying meal. The soup pairs well with many sides, making it a versatile choice for dinner.
Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup
Ingredients
For the soup base
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (2% or whole)
- 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 pound broccoli, florets chopped
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Sea salt, to taste
- Ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the carrots and potatoes under cold water. Peel and dice them into small, uniform pieces.
- Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking
- In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced carrots and onion, sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute.
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for about a minute.
- Slowly pour in the vegetable broth and milk while stirring continuously.
- Add the diced potatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for around five minutes.
- Season with sea salt and ground pepper to taste, then add the chopped broccoli.
- Continue to simmer for another ten minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with extra cheese, fresh parsley, or sour cream if desired. Serve warm.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!