Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender potatoes, fresh broccoli florets, and sharp cheddar cheese into a luscious soup. This soul-soothing, nutritious, and hearty soup is easy to prepare and perfect for cozy dinners or satisfying lunches. Its mild cheddar flavor and smooth consistency make it family-friendly and versatile enough to enjoy any time of year.
- Author: Lilly
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Vegetables
- 3 cups russet potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Fats
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups milk or cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Pantry
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional spices: cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash and chop the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Cut the broccoli into small florets. Dice the onion and mince the garlic to create the aromatic base that will elevate the soup’s flavor.
- Cook the Aromatics: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes, bringing out their natural sweetness.
- Make the Roux and Add Broth: Sprinkle flour over the cooked onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux for about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth to avoid lumps, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Potatoes and Simmer: Stir in the cubed potatoes, cover the pot, and cook until tender, approximately 15 minutes. This process thickens and softens the base of the soup.
- Incorporate Broccoli and Milk: Add the broccoli florets and pour in the milk or cream. Simmer for another 5–7 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet still bright green, maintaining its fresh texture.
- Blend and Add Cheese: Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy but chunky texture, or transfer half to a blender if preferred. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese gradually until melted and evenly incorporated.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional spices. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings for a heartwarming meal.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a richer, more pronounced cheesy flavor.
- Do not overcook broccoli; keep it tender-crisp to retain texture contrast.
- Partial blending creates an ideal combination of smoothness and chunky vegetables.
- Stir the roux constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a silky soup base.
- Season gradually toward the end to balance flavors and avoid overpowering the cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: potato soup, broccoli soup, cheddar soup, creamy soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, family-friendly soup