This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup is the warm hug you need on a chilly day! Packed with tender broccoli, hearty potatoes, and lots of gooey cheddar, it’s simply satisfying.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just throw everything in a pot, let it simmer, and soon you’ll have a bowl of comfort. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get in those veggies! 🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: This adds richness to the soup. You can substitute with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine if you’re looking for a lighter option or dairy-free alternative.
Onion: Use yellow or white onions for sweetness. If you’re sensitive to onions, leeks can be a milder option, or you could simply skip them!
Potatoes: Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are perfect for a creamy texture. If you want a lower-carb option, try cauliflower instead, but keep in mind the cooking time may vary.
Broccoli: Fresh is best, but frozen broccoli works too! Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup. You can also use any green vegetable, like spinach or kale, if you like.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor! If you’re avoiding dairy, try a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for added flavor without the dairy.
Half-and-Half: For a lighter version, use milk or skip it entirely. Coconut milk provides a great creamy texture if looking for a dairy-free option.
What’s the Best Way to Blend the Soup Smoothly?
Blending the soup gives it that creamy texture everyone loves. If using an immersion blender, simply blend in the pot until you reach your desired consistency. It’s easy and mess-free!
- If using a stand blender, let the soup cool slightly before transferring in batches to avoid hot splashes.
- Always cover the blender with a cloth to prevent any spills while blending hot liquids.
- Blend about half the soup to keep some chunky bits for texture; this makes every bite satisfying.
Keep in mind not to blend it too much — you want to leave some potato and broccoli chunks for a enjoyable hearty experience!
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For Garnish:
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup will take around 30 minutes to prepare and cook. That includes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time. Great for a cozy dinner on a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in the finely chopped onion. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
2. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture while stirring constantly. This creates a roux that will help thicken the soup. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, continuing to stir all the while.
3. Add the Broth:
Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, whisking as you go to avoid any lumps. This will create a nice, smooth base for your soup.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Add in the diced potatoes, along with the optional dried thyme and smoked paprika if you’re using them. Bring your soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are nice and tender.
5. Add the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green. This adds delicious color and nutrients to your soup.
6. Blend the Soup:
Grab an immersion blender and blend about half of the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. This will leave some chunks for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender, puree it, and then return it back to the pot.
7. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time, stirring continuously to help it melt smoothly into the soup. You want a creamy, cheesy deliciousness throughout!
8. Finish with Cream:
Add in the half-and-half or heavy cream, warming the soup gently while stirring. Be careful not to let it boil once the cream is in! Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve Warm:
Ladle your hearty soup into bowls and garnish each serving with extra shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Serve hot with some crusty bread or your favorite crackers.
Your creamy, cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup is ready to be enjoyed! Perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Soup?
Absolutely! While broccoli is the star, you can add other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or even spinach. Just adjust the cooking times as needed to ensure everything is tender but not overcooked.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Soup If It’s Too Thin?
If your soup ends up a bit thinner than you’d like, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and adding it to the simmering soup. Stir until it thickens. Alternatively, blend more of the soup until desired thickness is reached!
