Description

Warm, hearty, and delightfully creamy, Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines the earthy flavors of broccoli and potatoes with the richness of cheddar cheese. Perfect for chilly evenings, casual lunches, or whenever you crave a bowl of soul-soothing goodness, this soup is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Each spoonful delivers a burst of cheesy flavor balanced by the soft textures of tender vegetables. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

• For the Soup Base:
• 1–2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken stock
• For the Thickener and Creaminess:
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 cup milk
• For the Vegetables:
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces
• 16 ounces broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• For the Flavor:
• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground pepper

Preparation Method

Sauté the Aromatics:
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which takes about 3 minutes. Next, add the diced carrots, along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it release its aroma, cooking for just 30 seconds to avoid burning.

Cook the Vegetables:
Pour the chicken stock into the pot, stirring to combine. Add the cubed potatoes and cover the pot with a lid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the potatoes to begin softening. Then, add the broccoli florets to the pot, mixing them in evenly. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes or until both the potatoes and broccoli are fork-tender.

Prepare the Cream Base:
In a separate small bowl, combine the cornstarch and milk, whisking until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the pot, stirring continuously to ensure even thickening. Allow the soup to simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, giving it time to achieve a luscious, creamy consistency.

Add the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and slowly sprinkle in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring as it melts into the soup. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Serve:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of black pepper, or even a few croutons for added texture.

Tips and Conclusion

For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup before adding the cheese. This technique thickens the soup while retaining some chunks for texture.
Swap out sharp cheddar for other cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a twist in flavor.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a subtle heat that complements the cheese.
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is a classic dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. With its simple preparation and rich flavors, it’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a main course or an appetizer. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Share this comforting dish with loved ones, and don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes to elevate your culinary adventures!