Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

If you're looking for a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor, this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is the perfect recipe for you! Whether you're a soup lover or just in need of something cozy on a chilly day, this delicious recipe brings together the wholesome goodness of broccoli, the creaminess of potatoes, and the indulgence of cheese. Read on for a step-by-step guide to making this delectable soup, with tips, substitutions, and serving ideas that will help you perfect this dish.

this Recipe

What is Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?

Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is a rich, comforting blend of fresh broccoli, tender potatoes, and sharp, melted cheese. This soup is a popular choice for lunch or dinner, and it’s often served with crusty bread or a fresh salad. It's easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients, and the result is a creamy, flavorful soup that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients List for Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

Before you begin cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients you’ll need. Here's a complete list for this comforting soup:

• 2 cups of fresh broccoli (chopped into small florets)
• 2 medium-sized potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup of milk or cream (whole milk or heavy cream for extra richness)
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild depending on your preference)
• 2 tablespoons of butter (for sautéing)
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a pinch of nutmeg or paprika (for extra flavor)
• Optional: crumbled bacon or croutons (for topping)

Ingredients List for Optional Garnishes and Add-ins

While the base recipe is incredibly delicious on its own, there are some great add-ins and garnishes you can consider to customize your soup further:

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy finish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the cheesiness.
• Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for garnish.
• Crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch.
• Croutons for added texture.
• Hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Shredded carrots or celery for extra vegetables.

Feel free to mix and match these ingredients depending on your personal taste or dietary preferences.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some handy substitutions and variations you can try if you want to adapt the recipe:

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace milk or cream with a plant-based alternative such as almond or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the soup.
• Low-Carb Version: Swap out the potatoes for cauliflower to reduce carbs while still keeping the soup creamy and filling.
• Spicy Variation: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Lighter Option: Substitute half of the cream or milk with unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream for a lighter version without sacrificing too much richness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare a delicious bowl of Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup:

1. Prep the Vegetables: Start by chopping the broccoli into small florets, peeling and cubing the potatoes, and finely dicing the onion and garlic.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.
3. Cook the Potatoes and Broccoli: Add the cubed potatoes and broccoli florets to the pot. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Make the Cheese Base: While the vegetables are cooking, make a simple roux. In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter and stir in the flour. Cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Slowly add the milk or cream to the roux, whisking until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Blend the Soup: Once the vegetables are tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, blend only part of the mixture, leaving some vegetable chunks intact. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender and blend it until smooth, then return it to the pot.
6. Add Cheese and Cream: Gradually stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Next, add the roux and milk mixture, stirring until the soup thickens to a creamy texture.
7. Season: Taste the soup and season with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings such as nutmeg or paprika.

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

Let’s break down the cooking process into a simple, easy-to-follow guide:

1. Chop all vegetables to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Sauté onions and garlic in butter to bring out their sweetness and enhance the flavor of the soup.
3. Simmer broccoli and potatoes in broth until tender, ensuring all vegetables are fully cooked for a smooth texture.
4. Prepare the cheese base by making a roux with butter, flour, and milk for creaminess.
5. Blend the soup to your desired consistency using an immersion blender or a standard blender.
6. Add cheese and cream slowly, stirring continuously to avoid curdling.
7. Season to taste and adjust thickness with more broth or cream as needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Don’t overcook the broccoli or potatoes. Overcooked broccoli can lose its vibrant green color and become mushy.
• Curdling the Cheese: Always add cheese off the heat or at a low temperature to prevent it from curdling.
• Skipping the Roux: The roux (flour and butter mixture) is essential for thickening the soup, so don’t skip this step!
• Not Blending Smoothly: If you prefer a silky texture, make sure to blend the soup thoroughly. Leaving large chunks can result in uneven texture.
• Under-seasoning: Don’t forget to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup! Here are some ideas to make it look as good as it tastes:

1. Add a Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs, crispy bacon bits, or a drizzle of sour cream can elevate the visual appeal.
2. Use Toppings: Croutons or shredded cheese on top add a nice contrast in texture and make the soup look inviting.
3. Serve with a Side: Pair the soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh garden salad to create a complete meal.
4. Brighten the Bowl: Serve in a bright bowl or add a dash of paprika for a pop of color.
5. Go Rustic: For a homestyle presentation, serve in rustic bread bowls or deep ceramic bowls.

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is best served warm, straight from the stove. You can ladle it into individual bowls and garnish each serving with your chosen toppings. For a cozy dinner, pair it with a crisp salad or buttery garlic bread. This soup is also perfect for meal prepping—store it in airtight containers, and it will stay fresh in the fridge for up to five days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

• Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of sourdough or French bread and ladle the soup directly into the bread bowl.
• Elegant Touch: Serve in small cups or bowls for a chic appetizer at a dinner party.
• Layer Garnishes: Add layers of toppings like a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and chives in a spiral pattern for a polished finish.

Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe Tips

• For a smoother soup: Use a blender to fully puree the soup. For a chunkier version, blend just half of the soup.
• Adjust thickness: If the soup is too thick, add extra broth to thin it out to your preferred consistency.
• Get creative with cheese: While cheddar is the most popular choice, you can also experiment with Gruyere or Gouda for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this soup in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just as well in this soup. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.

Q: How can I reheat this soup?
A: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If it thickens too much, add a little broth or milk to loosen it up.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, cook the vegetables on low for 4-6 hours, then blend and add the cheese and cream at the end.

Conclusion

Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is a timeless comfort food that blends creamy, cheesy goodness with the nutritious benefits of broccoli and potatoes. With its rich flavor and silky texture, this soup is perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight meal to a leisurely lunch. By following this detailed guide, you can make this hearty soup with confidence. Try it today, and don’t forget to experiment with garnishes and variations to make it your own!

Print