Creamy Cheddar Broccoli and Potato Soup Delight 🥣🧀🥦
1. Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food recipe with this creamy cheddar broccoli soup. This savory and hearty dish combines tender broccoli, creamy potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese to create a broccoli cheese soup that is both satisfying and nourishing. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave a flavorful vegetable soup, this recipe is easy to prepare and guaranteed to warm your soul. Whether you call it cheddar potato soup or a creamy vegetable soup, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Cheddar Broccoli and Potato Soup
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes or paprika for a hint of spice
3. Step-by-step Instructions to Make Creamy Cheddar Broccoli and Potato Soup
Preparation of Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping your fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. Peel and dice the potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking. Chop the onion and mince the garlic so they’re ready for sautéing.
Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook Potatoes and Broccoli
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Add the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Puree the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a blender and puree in batches. Return the soup to the pot if necessary.
Add Cheese and Cream
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and the heavy cream or milk. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy and well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like red pepper flakes or paprika.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Cheddar Broccoli and Potato Soup
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much upon storage, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup
Serve warm, garnished with extra shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, or crispy bacon bits for added flavor. Pair this creamy vegetable soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For more comforting potato-based dishes, check out this loaded baked potato soup.
6. Variations and Substitutions
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based cheese and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure broth is gluten-free and skip any added thickeners.
- Extra Flavor: Add cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or a splash of hot sauce for a flavor twist.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well—just adjust the cooking time slightly. Be sure to thaw and drain excess water before adding.
How long does it take to prepare this creamy cheddar broccoli soup?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30-40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy recipe for busy weeknights.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup, let it cool, and store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving for the best flavor.
What are good side dishes to serve with this soup?
Crispy bread, garlic croutons, or a fresh mixed salad complement this broccoli cheese soup perfectly, making it an ideal comforting meal.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- A high-quality saucepan — Ensures even heating to prevent burning and makes stirring easier.
- An immersion blender — Makes pureeing the soup smooth and quick, reducing the number of dishes.
- A set of sturdy cooking spoons — Essential for stirring and combining ingredients effectively.
- A sharp chef’s knife — For chopping vegetables efficiently and safely.
9. Conclusion
This creamy cheddar broccoli soup is a delightful addition to your comfort food repertoire. Its rich, cheesy flavor combined with fresh broccoli and potatoes makes it an irresistible choice for chilly days or when you need a satisfying meal. Easy to prepare, customizable, and delicious, this broccoli cheese soup will surely impress family and friends alike. Enjoy making this cozy and hearty dish, and don’t forget to explore related recipes to inspire your next culinary adventure!
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Creamy Cheddar Broccoli and Potato Soup Delight
A hearty and creamy soup combining tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese for a satisfying meal.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, diced
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, chopped chives
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced potatoes and broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Add broccoli florets and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth or leave some chunks for texture.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional cheddar, bacon bits, or chives if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute heavy cream with milk for a lighter version.
- For vegetarian option, use vegetable broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 80mg