© Original recipe by Flavor & Folklore ©
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup 🥣🧀🥔
1. Introduction
Welcome to your ultimate guide on making Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days or when you crave something warm and cheesy. This Creamy Broccoli Soup combines tender broccoli, flavorful cheddar cheese, and creamy potatoes to create a rich soup that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will become a family favorite. Plus, you can check out useful air fryers for quick side dishes to serve alongside your soup!
2. Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- 2 heads fresh broccoli, chopped
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk for a lighter version
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg for added depth
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into small florets. Peel and dice the potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking. Dice the onion and mince the garlic to build a flavorful base for your cheddar potato soup.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the Potatoes and Broccoli
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until potatoes are tender. Add the broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork.
Blend for Creaminess
Once the vegetables are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the pureed soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream or milk for a velvety texture.
Add Cheddar Cheese to Finish
Lower the heat and slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the soup fresh longer, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.
5. Serving Suggestions for Creamy Broccoli Soup
This Cheddar Potato Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic bread slices. For added texture, top with crispy bacon bits or toasted croutons. As an extra recipe inspiration, explore some delightful dishes like Christmas bread or French onion soup pizza.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and substitute dairy cheese with vegan cheese options and plant-based milk like almond or soy milk.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal for busy days.
Can I add other vegetables or spices?
Yes! Feel free to add sliced carrots, celery, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor. Nutmeg, as mentioned, adds a warm touch, and paprika can give a subtle smoky flavor.
7. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for preparing crispy toppings or sides to go with your soil-rich Cheddar Potato Soup.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures every step of your soup-making process is smooth and easy, from sautéing to blending.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – To cook bacon or prepare quick side dishes to serve alongside your soup.
- Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker – For a cozy cup of coffee while enjoying your homemade soup.
- KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer – Ideal for shredding cheese or mixing ingredients for any added toppings.
8. Conclusion
Enjoying a warm bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup is like wrapping yourself in a comforting blanket of cheesy goodness. With this simple, step-by-step guide, you can make a Creamy Broccoli Soup that’s both delicious and nutritious. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for family dinners, quick weeknight meals, or even meal prep for the week. Remember to experiment with flavors and add your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours. For more cozy baking ideas, explore delectable recipes like festive Christmas bread or Valentine ganache cookies.
9. Final Thoughts
Whip up this Broccoli Cheddar Soup anytime you want a hearty, cheesy meal packed with nutrients. Its creamy texture and savory flavors are sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Don’t forget to personalize it with your favorite toppings or sides, and enjoy a bowl of comfort that you created from scratch!
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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup
A rich and velvety broccoli cheddar potato soup that’s perfect for warming up on cold days. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cook until translucent.
- Add diced potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Add broccoli and cook for another 5 minutes until tender.
- Puree the soup with an immersion blender until smooth or chunky as preferred.
- Stir in cheese until melted, then add milk or heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
- Heat through and serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or green onions if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sauté the onions and garlic until caramelized.
- You can substitute milk with cream for a richer texture.
- Blending is optional for a chunkier or creamier finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 290 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg