Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Hearty Potatoes
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of broccoli cheese soup on a chilly day. This rich, creamy soup is packed with fresh broccoli, hearty potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese, creating the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together, this soup is always a crowd-pleaser.
Not only is this soup incredibly delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a homemade, restaurant-quality soup on the table in no time. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.
If you’re looking for a way to sneak more vegetables into your meals, this broccoli cheese soup is the answer. The potatoes add a creamy, velvety texture without needing extra cream, making this dish both hearty and nutritious. Plus, the combination of cheddar cheese and broccoli is a classic pairing that never disappoints.
Best of all, this soup is incredibly versatile! You can make it ahead of time, store it for meal prep, or even customize it with your favorite toppings and mix-ins. Keep reading for all the details on how to make this irresistible broccoli cheese soup with potatoes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy & Comforting: This soup is thick, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—perfect for cozy nights.
- Easy & Quick: Made in just about 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious & Hearty: Packed with vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this soup is both filling and nourishing.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this cheesy, creamy goodness!
Perfect Pairings
- Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: For dipping and soaking up all that cheesy goodness.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The ultimate comfort food duo.
- Side Salad: A fresh garden or Caesar salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Crispy Bacon Bits: Sprinkle on top for a smoky, crunchy twist.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: To maintain its vibrant color and texture, cook just until tender.
- Adjust Consistency: Add more broth for a thinner soup or blend for a smoother texture.
- Season to Taste: A pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper can enhance the flavors beautifully.
Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets chopped
- 2 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk whole or 2%
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika optional
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Vegetables: Pour in the broth, then add the diced potatoes and broccoli. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a few tablespoons of milk to form a smooth paste. Pour the remaining milk into the soup, then slowly stir in the flour mixture. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
- Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup while leaving some chunks.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar cheese or a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Alternatives & Variations
- Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of whole milk, or swap some of the cheese for nutritional yeast.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, ham, or crispy bacon for extra heartiness.
- Go Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Replace flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.
Common Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Can I freeze broccoli cheese soup?
While possible, dairy-based soups can separate when frozen. For best results, freeze before adding cheese and stir it in when reheating.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen broccoli cooks faster.
This creamy, cheesy broccoli potato soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side dish, it’s a satisfying, wholesome meal that’s both easy and delicious. Enjoy and happy cooking!
