Cheddar Potato Broccoli Soup
Highlighted under: Ultimate Comfort Bites
Warm up with a creamy, comforting bowl of Cheddar Potato Broccoli Soup that brings together tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese. This deliciously hearty recipe is perfect for chilly days and makes a fantastic vegetarian option for a quick lunch or dinner. Easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients, it's sure to become a family favorite.
This soup warms the soul with every spoonful. A perfect blend of flavors, it highlights seasonal vegetables and offers a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Why This Soup is Perfect for You
Cheddar Potato Broccoli Soup is a delightful dish designed to please your palate while providing essential nutrients. The combination of fresh broccoli and hearty potatoes creates a satisfying and nutritious blend. This recipe ensures that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy every spoonful, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings.
Rich in vitamins and minerals from the broccoli and potatoes, this soup serves as a delicious way to meet your daily vegetable intake. Moreover, the sharp cheddar cheese adds a creamy texture and burst of flavor that elevates the dish, turning it into a comfort food classic. Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a filling dinner option, this soup covers all bases.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your Cheddar Potato Broccoli Soup is not only tasty but also creamy and smooth, consider using an immersion blender instead of a stand blender. This method allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot, minimizing mess and making cleanup a breeze. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
When it comes to seasoning, don't be shy! Salt and pepper can dramatically enhance the flavors of your soup. If you want an extra kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Additionally, experiment with herbs like thyme or basil for an aromatic twist that elevates the overall taste profile.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Serve your Cheddar Potato Broccoli Soup with warm crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that satisfies. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives can also make the presentation more appealing and enhance the flavor. For an extra cheesy touch, top each bowl with additional grated cheddar before serving.
Feel free to customize this soup to your liking. You can add other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for more flavor and variety. If you're looking for protein, consider adding cooked chicken or crispy bacon pieces. This versatility makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it all week long.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ingredients for Cheddar Potato Broccoli Soup
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ensure all vegetables are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Steps
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent.
Cook the Vegetables
Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
Add Broccoli and Cheese
Stir in the broccoli and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and blend the mixture until smooth, then return to the pot.
Finish the Soup
Stir in the milk and cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot and enjoy with crusty bread!
Storage and Reheating
Properly storing your Cheddar Potato Broccoli Soup is essential for maintaining its freshness and flavor. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of milk or broth while reheating until you reach your desired consistency. Enjoy as if it were freshly made!
Nutritional Benefits
This Cheddar Potato Broccoli Soup is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. Potatoes are rich in potassium, providing a healthy balance of electrolytes, while broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber. Together, they create a wholesome dish that promotes digestive health and boosts the immune system.
Moreover, incorporating sharp cheddar cheese provides protein and calcium, which are essential for strong bones and overall health. This soup strikes a perfect balance of comfort and wellness, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without compromising on nutrition.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just reheat on the stove before serving.
Cheddar Potato Broccoli Soup
Warm up with a creamy, comforting bowl of Cheddar Potato Broccoli Soup that brings together tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese. This deliciously hearty recipe is perfect for chilly days and makes a fantastic vegetarian option for a quick lunch or dinner. Easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients, it's sure to become a family favorite.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Ultimate Comfort Bites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Cheddar Potato Broccoli Soup
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent.
Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
Stir in the broccoli and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and blend the mixture until smooth, then return to the pot.
Stir in the milk and cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 12g