This Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm, comforting classic, perfect for cold days or any time you’re craving a hearty, cheesy meal. Made with tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese, this soup is creamy, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s easy to make on the stovetop, and with simple ingredients, you can whip it up in under an hour!
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Rich and Creamy: The blend of cheddar cheese and potatoes creates a thick, velvety texture.
- Full of Flavor: Garlic, onion, and cheddar give this soup a robust taste.
- Nutritious: With potatoes and broccoli, it’s a healthy, filling choice.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, hearty soup.
Ingredients
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped (or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- Optional toppings: extra shredded cheddar, chives, croutons, or a dollop of sour cream
Directions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the diced potatoes, broth, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using) to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the Broccoli: Stir in the chopped broccoli and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup partially, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, you can blend half of the soup in a blender and return it to the pot.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Stir in the milk (or heavy cream) and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra cheddar cheese, chives, croutons, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve warm.
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings)
Tips for the Perfect Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Use Sharp Cheddar: Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar gives the soup a stronger, richer flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Adding it at the end keeps the broccoli tender and green.
- Blend for Your Preference: Blend more for a smooth soup or leave it chunky for texture.
Variations and Serving Ideas
- Bacon Topping: Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and a smoky touch.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based toppings for a vegetarian-friendly soup.
Description
This Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, hearty, and packed with cheesy flavor. The combination of tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar makes it a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. With easy ingredients and simple steps, it’s a great go-to recipe that will satisfy the whole family.
