Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
A creamy and comforting soup made with tender broccoli, hearty potatoes, and a rich, cheesy base. This delightful dish combines wholesome vegetables with sharp cheddar and a touch of cream, creating a bowl of warmth that's perfect for chilly days. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or as a starter to impress guests.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 11/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Prepare the Broccoli: While the potatoes are cooking, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 3–4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Blend the Soup: Once the potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, blend the soup in batches using a blender.
- Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Mix until the cheese is fully melted, creating a creamy consistency.
- Add the Broccoli: Gently fold the blanched broccoli into the soup. Let it simmer for another 3–5 minutes to heat everything through.
- Taste and Serve: Adjust the seasoning as needed, then ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Cheesy & Comforting
Few things are as comforting as a bowl of cheesy soup, and this one is a game-changer. The combination of soft, buttery potatoes and fresh, vibrant broccoli in a creamy, cheesy broth creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each spoonful is velvety smooth with little bursts of tender vegetables, making it a truly satisfying meal.2. Easy & Family-Approved
This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal in no time. It’s a great option for busy weeknights when you want something quick, nutritious, and filling. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike—who can resist a cheesy, creamy bowl of goodness? Even picky eaters will enjoy the mild flavors and smooth texture, making it a family favorite.3. Versatile & Customizable
One of the best things about this soup is its versatility. You can easily tailor it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Want to add more vegetables? Toss in some carrots, cauliflower, or spinach. Prefer a different cheese? Try Gouda, Swiss, or even a bit of blue cheese for a bolder flavor. You can also adjust the thickness by adding more broth for a lighter version or blending more potatoes for an ultra-creamy consistency. For extra protein, stir in shredded chicken or crumbled bacon. The possibilities are endless!How to Serve & Enjoy
This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the pot. Garnish it with extra shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor. Serve it with a side of crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use Sharp Cheddar for Maximum Flavor
The sharper the cheddar, the more pronounced and satisfying the cheesy flavor will be. Extra sharp cheddar gives the soup a bold, tangy taste that balances well with the creamy potatoes and broccoli. You can also mix in some smoked cheddar or Gruyère for an extra layer of depth. - Make It Extra Creamy
If you love a richer, more indulgent soup, try adding a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream. Blending a portion of the soup before serving also enhances the texture, making it velvety smooth. For a silky finish, use an immersion blender to puree some of the potatoes and broccoli while keeping some chunks intact for a bit of texture. - Leftovers Taste Even Better
The flavors of this soup deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious. If possible, prepare the soup a day ahead and reheat it when ready to serve. It also freezes exceptionally well, making it a great option for meal prep.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Add Bacon
Crumbled crispy bacon sprinkled on top adds a smoky, salty crunch that perfectly complements the creamy base of the soup. You can also sauté the bacon in the pot before adding other ingredients to infuse the soup with its rich, savory flavor. - Add Cauliflower
For a veggie-packed twist, stir in some cauliflower along with the broccoli. It blends seamlessly into the soup, adding extra nutrition while maintaining a creamy consistency. Roasting the cauliflower before adding it to the soup enhances its natural sweetness. - Make It Vegan
Swap out the heavy cream and cheddar cheese for dairy-free alternatives. Use almond, oat, or cashew milk for creaminess and a good-quality dairy-free cheese for a melty, cheesy finish. Nutritional yeast can also be added for a cheesy, umami flavor. - Add a Protein Boost
For a heartier meal, mix in shredded rotisserie chicken, white beans, or lentils. These additions not only increase protein content but also make the soup more filling.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup pairs beautifully with:- A Warm Slice of Crusty Bread or Toasted Baguette
The perfect way to soak up the creamy soup, adding texture and crunch to every bite. - A Side Green Salad with Your Favorite Vinaigrette
A fresh, tangy salad helps balance the richness of the soup. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette works perfectly. - Crackers or Homemade Breadsticks for Dipping
Buttery crackers or crisp breadsticks add an extra crunch that pairs well with the creamy soup.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Storage:
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. - Reheating:
Warm up leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between. - Freezing:
This soup freezes well! Once cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove for a fresh, delicious meal.