If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that hits all the right notes, you’re going to absolutely love this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe. I’ve made this many times on chilly evenings, and what draws me back is how creamy, cheesy, and loaded with fresh veggies it turns out—perfect comfort food that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, so stick around and I’ll walk you through every step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Comfort: The combination of potatoes and cheese creates the ultimate velvety texture that’s so satisfying.
- Packed with Fresh Veggies: Broccoli and carrots add color, nutrients, and that fresh, slightly sweet flavor.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: You probably have all the pantry basics already, making it easy to throw together whenever cravings hit.
- Family Favorite: My family can’t get enough, which means leftovers disappear fast—always a good sign!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. I’ve shared some tips to help you pick the best items and get the most out of each one.
- Butter: I like using real butter for its rich flavor—it helps create the perfect base for sautéing veggies.
- Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth when cooked down, so don’t skip it.
- Carrots: They add natural sweetness and a lovely texture; diced small so they soften nicely.
- Garlic: Minced for that aromatic punch—fresh garlic really makes a difference here.
- Chicken Stock: Use a good-quality broth for the best flavor; if you want it vegetarian, vegetable stock works great too.
- Cornstarch: This is the secret to thickening the soup without making it heavy—mix it with milk to avoid lumps.
- Milk: Adds creaminess; whole milk gives the best results but you can use 2% if needed.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes peeled and cubed are perfect for that hearty, tender bite.
- Broccoli Florets: Fresh is fantastic if in season, but frozen works just as well and is super convenient.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides that tangy, cheesy punch; shredding it yourself melts better than pre-shredded.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential—season to taste, especially as the cheese adds saltiness.
Variations
I love that this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is super adaptable—once you get the base down, you can tailor it to fit your mood, dietary needs, or what you have in the kitchen.
- Vegetarian Version: I’ve swapped chicken stock for veggie broth and it tastes just as rich and delicious.
- Extra Creamy: Sometimes I add a splash of heavy cream for an ultra-luxurious texture.
- Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika elevates the flavor beautifully if you like a little heat.
- Make it Vegan: Try replacing butter with olive oil, dairy milk with almond or oat milk, and cheese with a vegan cheddar alternative—I’ve tested this with great results.
How to Make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies for Flavor
Start by melting one to two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter’s melted and foamy, toss in your diced onions. I watch them carefully and sauté until they soften and become just a little translucent—usually about 3 minutes. Then add diced carrots, salt, and pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes to build a sweet, savory base. Finally, add minced garlic and sauté, stirring frequently, for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown or burn here!
Step 2: Simmer Potatoes and Broth
Add your peeled and cubed potatoes to the pot along with the chicken broth. Cover to trap the steam and bring it to a gentle simmer. I usually give it about 10 minutes before adding the broccoli so everything cooks evenly. Once the potatoes get fork-tender, toss in your fresh or frozen broccoli florets and simmer for another 10 minutes or so until the broccoli is nice and tender. This timing works perfectly to avoid mushy veggies.
Step 3: Thicken and Cheese It Up
While the soup is simmering, mix your cornstarch with milk in a small bowl until perfectly smooth—that’s key to avoid any lumps. Stir this mixture into the hot soup, and watch it thicken as it bubbles gently. Now comes the best part: stirring in sharp cheddar cheese until it melts into a luscious, creamy broth. Keep your heat low here and stir constantly so the cheese melts evenly without clumping or separating.
And voila! Your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is ready to serve. Easy, right?
Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe
- Perfect Thickness: Stir in cornstarch mixed with milk slowly to control thickness—I often add more if I want it heartier.
- Cheese Selection Matters: Sharp cheddar works best for bold flavor and smooth melting; avoid pre-shredded to prevent clumping.
- Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Adding broccoli later keeps it tender but not mushy, giving you that perfect bite.
- Watch the Heat When Melting Cheese: Keep the heat low to avoid cheese breaking or getting grainy—slow and steady wins!
How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe
Garnishes
I love adding a handful of extra shredded cheddar on top right before serving because cheese just makes everything better. A sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or crispy bacon bits bring a pop of color and flavor that my family can’t resist either. Sometimes I add a dollop of sour cream—it adds a nice tang and creaminess that I just can’t get enough of.
Side Dishes
When I serve this soup, I usually pair it with crusty bread or warm garlic knots for dipping. A simple green salad balances the meal perfectly if I’m feeling lighter. My kids especially love having buttery dinner rolls alongside—it makes mealtime feel extra cozy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I like serving this soup in mini bread bowls—it’s impressive but surprisingly easy. Another fun twist is layering it in clear glass mugs so you see the vibrant layers of broccoli, potatoes, and cheese. These small touches make family dinners or casual gatherings feel a little more festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
My go-to method is storing leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. The soup thickens as it sits, so before eating, I always stir in a splash of milk to get back that silky texture. Leftovers usually last 3-4 days easily, making it great for weekday lunches.
Freezing
I’ve had great success freezing this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe in portioned freezer-safe containers. Just be sure to freeze it before adding the cheese to avoid texture changes. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and stir in the cheese fresh after reheating, and it tastes just as delicious as the first day.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and to help everything come back together smoothly. I add a splash of milk or broth if it looks too thick, which restores that creamy consistency.
FAQs
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Can I make this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out butter for olive oil or dairy-free margarine, use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might be slightly different but still delicious.
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What type of potatoes should I use in this soup?
I prefer Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes because they hold up well during simmering and create a nice creamy texture once cooked. Yukon Gold is a bit waxier and adds a buttery note, which is a lovely complement to the cheese.
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Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works just fine and is super convenient. I usually add it directly to the simmering soup without thawing. It cooks quickly and blends well with the potatoes.
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How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick or too thin?
Start by adding cornstarch mixed with milk gradually to thicken the soup, and adjust as you go. If it gets too thick, simply add more milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s thin, simmer it a bit longer or add more cornstarch slurry.
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Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the entire soup a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently and add extra milk or broth if needed. Cheese tastes best when added fresh after reheating, especially if frozen and thawed.
Final Thoughts
I can’t tell you how many times this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe has saved me on busy nights when I wanted something homemade yet fuss-free. There’s just something so satisfying about a warm bowl filled with cheesy goodness and tender vegetables—it comforts not just your stomach but your soul too. I hope you give it a try and love it as much as my family and I do. Trust me, once you make it, this will quickly become one of your go-to soups to share, savor, and enjoy!
Print
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and comforting Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is a delicious blend of tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for a cozy meal. The soup is thickened with a cornstarch and milk mixture, creating a velvety texture without the heaviness of cream. It’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and makes a hearty weeknight dinner or lunch option.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 ounces broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into ½-inch cubes
Liquids and Thickening
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup cornstarch
Dairy and Fats
- 1-2 tablespoons butter
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Melt one to two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until they begin to soften, about 3 minutes.
- Add carrots and seasoning: Stir in the diced carrots along with salt and ground pepper. Continue cooking the vegetables for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté while stirring for about 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Cook potatoes in broth: Add the peeled and cubed potatoes along with 4 cups of chicken stock. Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer until tender: Let the soup simmer for approximately 10 minutes until the potatoes start to become tender.
- Add broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and continue simmering for another 10 minutes until both broccoli and potatoes are fork-tender.
- Make cornstarch slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and milk until smooth, then slowly stir this mixture into the hot soup to thicken it.
- Add cheese: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and mix until fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Serve: Once the cheese has melted and the soup is thickened, serve hot and enjoy your comforting broccoli potato cheese soup.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor; mild cheddar will result in a less intense cheese taste.
- Adjust thickness by varying the amount of cornstarch slurry to your preference.
- Fresh or frozen broccoli works equally well—just adjust simmering time slightly if using frozen to ensure it’s adequately cooked.
- This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg