Creamy Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup: A Cozy & Hearty Vegetable Delight 🥣🧀🥔
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a comforting and nutritious broccoli cheese soup, look no further! This creamy broccoli potato cheese soup combines the richness of cheese with the wholesome goodness of potatoes and fresh broccoli. It’s perfect for cold days, making it a hearty vegetable soup that warms your soul. With its velvety texture and delicious flavors, this cheesy potato broccoli soup is a staple for any cozy dinner table. Read on to learn how to make this delightful soup from scratch and discover tips for customizing it to your taste.
2. Ingredients Needed for Creamy Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for added flavor
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes for quicker cooking. Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step enhances the flavor foundation of your hearty vegetable soup.
Cook the Potatoes and Broccoli
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to coat with the aromatics. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Add the broccoli and cook for another 5 minutes until bright green and tender.
Puree for Creaminess
Using an immersion blender or regular blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a blender, do this in batches and be cautious with hot liquids.
Add Cheese and Cream
Return the soup to the pot if blended externally. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Pour in the milk or heavy cream for extra creaminess, stirring constantly. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like cayenne or paprika.
Final Adjustments
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For a richer flavor, add more cheese or cream. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese, chopped herbs, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
4. Storage Tips for Creamy Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the soup might thicken after refrigeration, so add a splash of broth or milk while reheating to regain its smooth consistency.
5. Serving Suggestions for this Cheesy Potato Broccoli Sensation
This creamy broccoli potato cheese soup makes a complete meal when accompanied by crusty bread or garlic bread. You can also serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or topped with crispy bacon bits for added texture. For a wholesome touch, pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light sandwich. For an extra cheesy experience, sprinkle some freshly grated cheese or croutons on top.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Broccoli Cheese Soup
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and replace cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan version. Substitute whole milk with plant-based milks like almond or oat milk.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process takes approximately 40-50 minutes, including chopping, cooking, blending, and simmering.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add carrots, peas, or cauliflower for more vegetable variety and added nutrients.
Are there any substitutions for potatoes?
For a lower-carb option, you can substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets or parsnips.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for crispy toppings or reheating leftovers so your soup stays warm and crispy!
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensure even heating and easy cleanup when making your soup.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer: Great for preparing side dishes to accompany your soup for a complete meal.
- Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker: Ideal for brewing a warm cup of coffee or tea to enjoy alongside your meal.
8. Conclusion
In summary, this broccoli cheese soup recipe, also known as creamy broccoli potato cheese soup, offers a comforting, velvety texture packed with wholesome vegetables and rich cheese flavor. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any season. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this hearty vegetable soup will surely become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of warmth and deliciousness!
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Creamy Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
A rich and creamy soup combining the goodness of broccoli and potatoes, melted cheese, and a savory broth for a hearty meal.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in chopped broccoli and cook for another 5 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
- Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer in batches to a blender.
- Return the soup to the pot, stir in cheese and heavy cream. Cook on low heat until cheese melts and soup is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot garnished with extra cheese or herbs if desired.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, ensure cheese and broth are gluten-free.
- For a vegan version, substitute cheese and cream with plant-based alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg