There’s something wonderfully comforting about a steaming bowl of Broccoli Cheddar and Potato Soup. This hearty and creamy soup, perfect for family gatherings or chilly evenings, brings together the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, the wholesome goodness of potatoes, and the vibrant freshness of broccoli. Prepared in a rustic, deep bowl and topped with crispy bacon bits and shredded cheddar cheese, it’s a culinary hug for the soul. Let’s dive into why this soup deserves a special place in your recipe repertoire.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: crispy bacon bits, extra shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
- Crusty bread and butter, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add the diced potatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the broccoli florets and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches your desired smoothness. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree it, then return it to the pot.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk or cream, stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon bits and extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread and butter for a complete and heartwarming meal.
Helpful Tips
For added depth of flavor, try roasting the potatoes and broccoli before adding them to the soup. It imparts a delightful smokiness. This soup can also be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting the bacon garnish.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have cheddar cheese on hand, try using a blend of cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked cheese for a unique twist.
Pairings
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, a glass of white wine, or a cold, refreshing apple cider. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light sandwich, like a turkey and cranberry spread.
We hope this Broccoli Cheddar and Potato Soup brings warmth and joy to your family dining table. Don’t forget to share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. We’d love to hear your feedback on our website at https://www.zynahz.com/. Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and follow us on social media for daily inspiration. Happy cooking!
