Bowl of homemade broccoli potato cheese soup topped with fresh herbs.

Homemade Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

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Imagine coming home on a chilly evening, the aroma of something warm and delightful wafting through the air as you step inside. That memory takes me back to my childhood kitchen, where my mom would often whip up her famous Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup each time the weather turned cold. The vibrant green of the broccoli against the warm golden hue of melted cheese was not just a feast for the eyes; it was a bowl of comfort and love. This recipe is more than just a mixture of delicious ingredients; it’s a tradition that brings back sweet memories and fills my home with warmth.

This Homemade Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is special because it’s packed with wholesome ingredients and flavors that delight the taste buds while providing warmth on the coldest days. It’s a dish that’s not only comforting but also bridges generations, as I now prepare it for my family, sharing the same warmth and joy it once brought to me. Each spoonful tells a story, making it a meaningful addition to any meal.

What Makes This Recipe Special

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming essence of this soup. It’s not just delicious; it’s also healthier than many cream-based soups due to the inclusion of fresh broccoli and potatoes. The addition of cheese elevates the flavor profile, making it a delightful bowl of goodness that everyone in your family will love. Whether you’re trying to warm up on a cold evening or simply craving something comforting, this soup hits the spot!

The creamy texture combined with the subtle crunch of broccoli makes it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. You’ll feel great serving this to your loved ones, knowing you’re nourishing them with wholesome ingredients.

Homemade Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

What You’ll Need

For the Soup Base

  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh is preferred for flavor)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for extra richness)

For the Creaminess

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp provides a stronger flavor)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (for a richer texture; can substitute with milk for a lighter option)

For Seasoning

  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for a slight kick)

Fresh Ingredients

  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

How to Make Homemade Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5–7 minutes or until they become translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Once the onions are softened, mix in the chopped potatoes and broccoli florets. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer

Pour in the vegetable (or chicken) broth, making sure the vegetables are fully submerged. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes and broccoli are tender.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until you reach a smooth consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer it to a countertop blender in batches. Just be sure to allow it to cool slightly before blending.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Cheese

Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, stirring to combine. Serve hot and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Tips & Recipe Variations

  • Fresh Ingredients: For a brighter flavor, always opt for fresh broccoli instead of frozen.
  • Cheese Choices: You can mix cheeses, like adding mozzarella for extra stretchiness or using a dairy-free cheese alternative to make it dairy-free.
  • Texture Preferences: If you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve some broccoli florets before blending and fold them back in at the end.
  • Make Ahead: This soup can easily be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating Tips: Reheat over low to medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the desired consistency.

How to Serve

This creamy Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or a simple green salad for a wholesome meal. For a touch of elegance, consider serving it in bread bowls. Present your soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added color and flavor.

Nutrition-wise, a standard serving of the soup can provide a satisfying dose of calcium from the cheese, fiber from the broccoli and potatoes, and essential vitamins, making you feel good about what you’re serving to family and friends.

Common Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the fridge for about three days.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze this soup! Just ensure it’s cooled completely, and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use milk, half-and-half, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a lighter version.

How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?

Ensure the potatoes are cooked well enough before blending, which helps in creating a creamy texture.

Can I make this vegetarian or dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use a dairy-free cheese substitute.

Conclusion

Making Homemade Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is not just about filling your belly; it’s about creating moments shared with loved ones. This recipe beautifully embodies the essence of comfort food simple, satisfying, and always homemade. I encourage you to cook it, savor each spoonful, and maybe even share your own stories tied to it. Let this bowl of goodness warm your heart just as it has mine!

“This soup is like a hug in a bowl! Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with veggies, it warms me up every single time.” – Emily, soup lover

Bowl of homemade broccoli potato cheese soup topped with fresh herbs.

Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

A comforting and creamy soup made with fresh broccoli, potatoes, and cheddar cheese, perfect for chilly evenings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh is preferred for flavor
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth Can use chicken broth for extra richness
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Sharp provides a stronger flavor
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with milk for a lighter option
For Seasoning
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika Optional for a slight kick
Fresh Ingredients
  • to taste fresh parsley or chives For garnish, optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5–7 minutes or until they become translucent and fragrant.
  2. Once the onions are softened, mix in the chopped potatoes and broccoli florets. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 3–4 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Pour in the vegetable (or chicken) broth, making sure the vegetables are fully submerged. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes and broccoli are tender.
  2. Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until you reach a smooth consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer it to a countertop blender in batches. Just be sure to allow it to cool slightly before blending.
  3. Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, stirring to combine. Serve hot and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Notes

For a chunkier soup, reserve some broccoli florets before blending and fold them back in at the end. This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat over low to medium heat and add a splash of broth or cream to maintain desired consistency.

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