Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup Recipe

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s packed with flavor and easy to make? Look no further than this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup recipe! This rich and creamy soup is perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Made with simple ingredients like fresh broccoli, tender potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. Read on to discover how to make this delicious dish step-by-step, along with tips, substitutions, and presentation ideas to elevate your cooking experience.

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What is Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is a hearty, thick soup made with a combination of sharp cheddar cheese, fresh broccoli, and potatoes. These key ingredients are cooked together to create a velvety, comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor. While the potatoes give the soup its creamy texture, the cheddar cheese adds a tangy richness, and the broccoli provides a fresh, vibrant contrast. The result is a well-balanced, nutrient-packed meal that can be served as an appetizer or a filling main course.

Ingredients List for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Before diving into the recipe, gather all your ingredients. This recipe uses fresh, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store.

Ingredients:

1. 3 cups fresh broccoli florets – Cleaned and chopped into bite-sized pieces.
2. 4 medium-sized potatoes – Peeled and diced.
3. 1 large onion – Finely chopped.
4. 3 cloves garlic – Minced.
5. 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth – You can use store-bought or homemade broth.
6. 1 cup heavy cream – Adds richness and creamy texture to the soup.
7. 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese – Shredded, for the ultimate cheesy flavor.
8. 2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing.
9. 1 tablespoon olive oil – For additional flavor during the sauté.
10. Salt and pepper to taste – To season the soup.
11. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) – Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
12. ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – To enhance the richness of the soup.

Substitutions and Variations

You can easily customize this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some substitutions and variations:

1. Broccoli Substitution: If you don’t have fresh broccoli, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just be sure to thaw them before adding them to the soup.
2. Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
3. Potato Options: Russet potatoes are great for a creamy texture, but you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different flavor and consistency.
4. Vegetarian/Vegan Option: For a vegetarian soup, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To make the soup vegan, swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream and use a vegan cheese alternative.
5. Spices and Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an extra burst of flavor, or kick up the heat with a dash of cayenne pepper.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup. The recipe is beginner-friendly but tastes like something you’d get in a fancy restaurant.

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Broth

Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine, then increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 3: Add the Broccoli

Once the potatoes are nearly cooked, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green. Be careful not to overcook the broccoli, as it can become mushy.

Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional)

For a smoother texture, you can blend a portion or all of the soup using an immersion blender. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step or only blend half of the soup.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Cheese

Once the broccoli and potatoes are cooked to your liking, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt completely. Stir continuously to ensure the cheese is fully incorporated and the soup is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Season the Soup

Season the soup with salt, pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and nutmeg. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Broccoli: Broccoli should be tender but still slightly firm. Overcooking can cause it to become mushy and lose its vibrant green color.
2. Not Blending Enough: If you like a creamy soup, be sure to blend enough of the mixture to achieve that smooth texture. However, blending too much can result in a soupy consistency with no texture.
3. Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Always reduce the heat before adding the cheese. High heat can cause the cheese to curdle, resulting in a grainy texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can turn a simple bowl of soup into a gourmet meal. Here are some tips for serving and presenting your Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup:

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

1. Bread Bowl: Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic, restaurant-quality experience.
2. Topped with Garnishes: Sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, or fresh chopped parsley on top of each bowl to add a finishing touch.
3. Side of Crusty Bread: Serve your soup alongside a slice of crusty sourdough or garlic bread for dipping.

Presentation Ideas for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

1. Swirl of Cream: Before serving, drizzle a swirl of heavy cream or sour cream on top of each bowl for a visually appealing garnish.
2. Cheese Croutons: Add crispy cheese croutons to your soup for an extra cheesy crunch. Simply cut cubes of bread, top them with shredded cheese, and bake until golden brown.
3. Layering: Layer your garnishes by starting with shredded cheese, followed by crumbled bacon, and finishing with fresh herbs or green onions for a beautiful, layered effect.

Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese will give the soup a superior flavor compared to frozen or pre-shredded cheese.
• Don’t Rush the Simmering: Give the potatoes and broccoli enough time to fully cook and develop their flavors. Rushing this step will affect the final taste and texture of the soup.
• Customize Your Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly, or mash some of the potatoes with a fork before blending.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently.

2. How can I make this soup healthier?

To make a lighter version of this soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese option.

3. Can I use an Instant Pot to make this soup?

Yes! Simply sauté the onions and garlic using the sauté function, then add the potatoes and broth. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a quick release. Add the broccoli, cream, and cheese, and sauté until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is fully melted.

4. How long will the soup last in the fridge?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or enjoying it as a meal on its own, this soup is sure to impress. With fresh ingredients, customizable options, and helpful tips to guide you, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. So grab your ingredients and start cooking — your bowl of comfort is just a few steps away!

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