As the first chill of autumn settles in, I often find myself craving the warmth of homemade comfort food—like a steaming bowl of creamy cheddar broccoli potato soup. The moment I chop the vibrant green broccoli and the golden potatoes, my kitchen fills with fresh, earthy scents that instantly spark joy. This recipe has become my go-to for those busy weeknights when I need something hearty yet quick to whip up.
Not only does this soup wrap you in a velvety embrace with its rich cheddar and tender veggies, but it also pleases even the pickiest of eaters at the table—from kids to adults. What I adore about this dish is its simplicity: it’s a delightful blend of flavors that’s ready in no time, turning an ordinary night into a comforting feast. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll find a permanent spot in your family’s favorites. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Why is Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup the ultimate comfort food?
Comforting Warmth: This sumptuous soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, making it perfect for cozy nights.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, allowing you to savor homemade goodness without the fuss.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will adore the rich cheese and bright broccoli, a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
Customizable: with endless variations—from adding spices to swapping out veggies, you can make it uniquely yours.
Meal Prep Gem: Store leftovers easily for a hassle-free lunch the next day. This soup only gets better, deepening its flavors overnight!
So grab your ingredients and warm up with this delightful bowl you’re sure to love!
Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup Ingredients
• Discover the magic behind this comforting dish!
For the Soup
- Potatoes – A starchy variety like Russet creates a creamy base that makes each bowl filling.
- Broccoli – Fresh or frozen, this adds a vibrant pop of color and nutrition; chop into small pieces for even cooking.
- Cheddar Cheese – Provides rich, melty flavor; consider dairy-free alternatives for a vegan twist.
- Onion – Enhances the soup’s savory depth; shallots make a milder substitute if desired.
- Butter – Sautéing onions in butter adds richness; switch to olive oil for a lighter version.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth – The essential liquid base that brings everything together; opt for low-sodium for better control over seasoning.
- Cream – Adds a luxurious creaminess; use milk or plant-based cream for a lighter touch.
Optional Garnishes
- Extra Cheese – Sprinkle on top for indulgent cheesiness.
- Crispy Bacon Bits – An optional crunch that elevates the overall flavor if you’re not keeping it vegetarian.
Now you’re all set to bring this marvelous cheddar broccoli potato soup into your kitchen!
How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
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Sauté the Onions: Heat a large pot over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add Vegetables: Toss in the diced potatoes and broccoli, then pour in the broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, roughly 20 minutes.
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Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend half of the soup until smooth. For a creamier texture, you can blend in batches in a countertop blender.
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Stir in Cream and Cheese: Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the cream and cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and well combined, about 5 minutes.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder to taste. Let the soup sit for about 5 minutes before serving hot.
Optional: Garnish with extra cheese or crispy bacon bits for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, enhancing this delicious cheddar broccoli potato soup.
Freezer: This soup freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and label clearly.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess. Avoid using the microwave to prevent separation of ingredients.
Serving Suggestions: When serving reheated soup, feel free to garnish with extra cheese or crispy bacon bits for added flavor.
What to Serve with Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup?
Cozy up your dining experience with delightful sides that complement this creamy goodness.
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Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread adds a crunchy contrast, perfect for dipping into the rich soup.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette brings freshness and balances the decadent flavors of the soup.
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Crispy Croutons: Crunchy croutons add texture and an extra burst of flavor; toss in herbs for a delightful twist.
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Roasted Veggies: Sweet, caramelized roasted vegetables enhance the comfort of the soup while adding wholesome nutrition.
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Cheesy Quesadillas: These golden, cheesy pockets provide a satisfying companion; the melted cheese and soft tortillas marry beautifully with the soup.
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Sparkling Water: A refreshing, bubbly drink can cleanse the palate and enhance the overall meal experience—light and invigorating!
Pair any of these delicious sides with your hearty cheddar broccoli potato soup for a comforting and complete meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the potatoes, broccoli, and onion up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base—sauté the onions, add the vegetables, and simmer them in the broth—up to 3 days ahead. Just refrigerate the soup base until ready to finish. When you are ready to serve, simply blend the mixture, stir in the cream and cheddar cheese, and reheat gently on the stovetop. Implementing these steps will save you valuable time on busy weeknights while ensuring your soup remains just as delicious!
Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup Variations
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on your comforting favorite!
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Dairy-Free: Swap cheddar cheese and cream for dairy-free alternatives to create a vegan-friendly version that’s just as luscious.
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Green Goodness: Replace broccoli with fresh spinach or kale for a vibrant, nutritious boost; this adds color and a unique twist.
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Flavor Explosion: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to introduce a subtle heat that complements the creamy texture beautifully.
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy richness without dairy; it’s a fantastic umami enhancer.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in your favorite fresh herbs, like thyme or basil, just before serving to bring a refreshing brightness to the soup.
Indulge your taste buds by experimenting with different combinations; transforming this classic will make it even more special for you and your loved ones!
Expert Tips for Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup
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Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables the night before to save time when making this cheddar broccoli potato soup.
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Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for an extra layer of depth without overwhelming the dish.
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Storage Wise: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. This soup also freezes well for up to 2 months.
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Reheat Gently: To maintain creaminess, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth instead of the microwave.
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Check for Thickness: Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if too thick after blending; the perfect texture enhances every bite!
Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What potatoes are best for cheddar broccoli potato soup?
I recommend using starchy varieties like Russet potatoes, as they create a creamy base that makes the soup filling and delicious. Waxy potatoes, such as red or new potatoes, may not provide the same smooth texture.
How long can I store cheddar broccoli potato soup in the fridge?
You can store this scrumptious soup in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making leftovers even more delightful!
Can I freeze cheddar broccoli potato soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion during freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What should I do if my soup is too thick after blending?
If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, no worries! Just add a bit more broth gradually, stirring as you go until you reach the desired consistency. This way, you can still enjoy that creamy cheddar broccoli potato soup texture without sacrificing flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe can easily accommodate dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, ensure that your broth is gluten-free. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can swap in dairy-free cheese and plant-based cream, while still getting that delicious, hearty feel.
How can I enhance the flavor of my cheddar broccoli potato soup?
For a more complex flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika while blending. These spices can elevate the warmth and depth without overpowering the comforting flavors of the soup. The more, the merrier when it comes to flavor!
Hearty Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it's soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Toss in the diced potatoes and broccoli, then pour in the broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, roughly 20 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender, blend half of the soup until smooth. For a creamier texture, you can blend in batches in a countertop blender.
- Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the cream and cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and well combined, about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder to taste. Let the soup sit for about 5 minutes before serving hot.
- Garnish with extra cheese or crispy bacon bits for added flavor, if desired.