Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup: Prepare to be transported to a realm of creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting goodness! Imagine a bowl brimming with tender potatoes, vibrant broccoli florets, and a generous helping of sharp cheddar, all swimming in a velvety smooth broth. This isn’t just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a little culinary indulgence.

While the exact origins of Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup are debated, its roots likely lie in the classic combination of potatoes and cheese, a staple in many cultures for centuries. The addition of broccoli elevates it to a nutritional powerhouse, adding a vibrant green hue and a boost of vitamins. This soup is a modern twist on traditional comfort food, blending familiar flavors with a touch of healthy goodness.

What makes this soup so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the creamy smoothness of the potatoes, the slight bite of the broccoli, and the sharp, satisfying tang of the cheddar. It’s also incredibly convenient to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to be a success. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra vegetables for picky eaters! Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with this delightful Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup.

Ingredients:

• For the Soup Base:
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2% recommended for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Broccoli and Cheese:
• 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• Optional Toppings:
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Cooked and crumbled bacon
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Chopped green onions
• Croutons

Preparing the Soup Base:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Cook the Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and stir to coat them with the onion, garlic, and herb mixture.
4. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged. If needed, add a little more broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Blending the Soup:

1. Blend the Soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches (or use an immersion blender directly in the pot). Blend until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, be extremely cautious when blending hot liquids. Start on low speed and gradually increase to high, venting the lid slightly to allow steam to escape.
2. Return to Pot: Pour the blended soup back into the pot.

Adding Broccoli and Cheese:

1. Cook the Broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli florets to the soup. Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. You want the broccoli to be cooked through but still retain a bit of bite.
2. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overheat the soup at this stage, as the cheese can separate and become stringy.
3. Add Milk and Cream (Optional): Stir in the milk. If desired, add the heavy cream for extra richness. Heat through gently, but do not boil.
4. Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the cheese and broth already contain salt, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Serving the Soup:

1. Ladle and Garnish: Ladle the Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup into bowls.
2. Add Toppings: Top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, cooked and crumbled bacon, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, and croutons.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the soup immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Make it Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or cauliflower. Add them along with the potatoes.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives to make this soup dairy-free.
• Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the soup while it’s simmering. Stir well and cook until thickened.
• Thinning the Soup: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Freezing the Soup: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Leave some headspace in the containers, as the soup will expand when frozen. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Note that the texture of the soup may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
• Reheating the Soup: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.
• Using an Instant Pot: You can easily adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Sauté the onion and garlic in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. Then, add the potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, and rosemary. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Carefully release any remaining pressure. Blend the soup using an immersion blender. Stir in the broccoli and cheese until melted. Add milk and cream (if using) and season to taste.
• Broccoli Preparation: For a smoother soup, you can steam or roast the broccoli separately before adding it to the soup. This will make it more tender and easier to blend.
• Potato Choice: While russet potatoes are recommended for their starchiness, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly creamier texture.
• Cheese Quality: Using high-quality cheddar cheese will significantly enhance the flavor of the soup.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its vibrant green color. Aim for tender-crisp.
• Adjusting the Cheese: Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking. Some people prefer a cheesier soup, while others prefer a more subtle cheese flavor.
• Adding Bacon: If adding bacon, cook it until crispy and crumble it before adding it to the soup as a topping. You can also add some of the bacon grease to the pot when sautéing the onion for extra flavor.
• Using Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme and rosemary, you can use them instead of dried herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs. Add the fresh herbs towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
• Making it Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion:

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl, and trust me, you absolutely need this in your life! The creamy texture, the cheesy goodness, and the subtle earthiness of the broccoli and potatoes create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum reward, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend lunches. I’ve made countless batches, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser, even with the pickiest of eaters! But what truly sets this soup apart is its versatility. Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your own preferences. For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham. The smoky saltiness complements the cheesy soup beautifully. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, a swirl of pesto on top adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor. For a spicier kick, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will do the trick. Serving suggestions are endless! A crusty loaf of bread, perfect for dipping, is always a welcome addition. Grilled cheese sandwiches are another fantastic pairing, creating the ultimate comfort food experience. You can also garnish the soup with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and tang. A sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or parsley adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses! While cheddar is a classic choice, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp provolone would all work wonderfully. Each cheese will impart its own unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize the soup to your liking. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a roasted garlic bulb to the soup while it simmers. The roasted garlic will add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that will elevate the soup to a whole new level. I truly believe this Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves comforting, flavorful food. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet, especially for those who are hesitant to eat their greens. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it incredibly appealing, even to the most discerning palates. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! I’m confident that you’ll love this soup as much as I do. And when you do, please share your experience! I’d love to hear about your variations, your serving suggestions, and any tips or tricks you discover along the way. Tag me in your photos on social media – I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy cooking, and enjoy every spoonful of this delicious and comforting soup! I’m sure this will become a staple in your home, just like it is in mine.

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