There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of creamy potato broccoli cheddar soup wafting through the air, isn’t there? The rich aroma of melting cheese mingling with the earthy scent of fresh broccoli creates an invitation that’s hard to resist. Each spoonful offers a delightful burst of flavor and comforting warmth, making it the perfect dish for chilly nights or when you just need a hug in a bowl.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Creamy Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use other vegetables in my creamy potato broccoli cheddar soup?
- What cheese works best for this soup?
- Can I make this soup vegan?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s also steeped in memories. I remember the first time I made it for a group of friends. As soon as they took their first bite, their eyes widened in disbelief at how creamy and cheesy it was. The laughter and joy around the table turned an ordinary evening into a cherished moment, reminding me that food truly brings people together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy potato broccoli cheddar soup is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its rich flavor profile will tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more
- The vibrant green broccoli against the creamy background makes this dish visually appealing on any table
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed alone or paired with crusty bread, it’s a meal that fits any occasion
I once served this soup at a dinner party, and the compliments were endless! Friends declared it the highlight of the night.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and buttery flavor.
Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets; they add both color and nutrients to the soup.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to give your soup that bold, cheesy flavor everyone craves.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the aroma; use about 2 cloves for that irresistible depth.
Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium vegetable broth keeps the flavors balanced without overwhelming saltiness.
Cream: Heavy cream adds richness; you can substitute with milk if you’re watching calories.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all those wonderful flavors!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Let’s dive into making this comforting bowl of goodness!
Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent—around 3-4 minutes. Your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Add Potatoes and Broccoli: Next, toss in diced potatoes along with your fresh broccoli florets. Stir everything together until well mixed—this should take about 2 minutes, allowing those veggies to soak up all that garlicky goodness.
Pour in Broth: Carefully pour in your vegetable broth until all ingredients are submerged. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce to low once boiling—let it bubble away happily for about 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender.
Blend It Up!: Once your potatoes are soft enough to mash easily with a fork, it’s time to blend! Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer batches to a standard blender (be careful with hot liquids). Blend until smooth but leave some chunks for texture if you prefer.
Add Cheese and Cream: Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and heavy cream while gently heating over low flame. Mix continuously until cheese melts completely into that dreamy soup base—this should only take around 5 minutes. Don’t forget to taste before seasoning!
Enjoy ladling this creamy potato broccoli cheddar soup into bowls; top with extra cheese or croutons if you’re feeling fancy!
With its rich flavors and hearty texture, this soup is bound to become one of your go-to comfort foods!
You Must Know
- Creamy Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a hug in a bowl
- This comforting dish combines rich flavors with vibrant colors, making it perfect for chilly days or cozy nights
- It’s packed with nutrients and warmth that’ll have your family asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add potatoes and broccoli. Pour in broth, bring to a simmer, and blend for a creamy finish. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly while maximizing flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for cauliflower or toss in some carrots for an extra crunch. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère for a twist. Your soup, your rules!
Storing & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for three months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure potatoes are cut uniformly for even cooking; this prevents some from becoming mushy while others remain firm
- Using fresh broccoli enhances flavor significantly compared to frozen options
- Adding a pinch of nutmeg elevates the soup’s creaminess and depth beautifully
Cooking this creamy potato broccoli cheddar soup became my secret weapon during family gatherings. The first time I made it, my cousin declared it “better than therapy,” which had me laughing and feeling grateful all at once.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables in my creamy potato broccoli cheddar soup?
Absolutely! Cauliflower, carrots, or even spinach can be delicious additions.
What cheese works best for this soup?
Cheddar is classic, but Gruyère or Fontina can add a gourmet touch.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based cheese and almond milk instead of dairy products for a vegan version.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Creamy Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Creamy potato broccoli cheddar soup is a warm, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of melted sharp cheddar cheese with tender potatoes and vibrant broccoli. Perfect for chilly nights, this easy-to-make soup will wrap you in warmth with every spoonful. It’s not only delicious but also a delightful way to bring friends and family together around the table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add diced potatoes and broccoli florets; stir for about 2 minutes to combine.
- Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or standard blender (leave some chunks for texture if desired).
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream over low heat until cheese melts completely. Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
