Nothing beats a warm, creamy bowl of Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup on a chilly day. This comforting soup combines tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese into a luscious, flavorful dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for cozy family dinners, weeknight meals, or a quick lunch, it’s the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out. Simple, quick, and loaded with wholesome ingredients, it’s a go-to recipe that can easily become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and cheesy with perfectly tender potatoes and broccoli
- Quick and easy, ready in just 35 minutes
- Family-friendly comfort food everyone will enjoy
- Versatile—you can swap cheeses or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
- Easy to adjust thickness to your preference
Ingredients
- Butter (1–2 tablespoons) – Used to sauté vegetables and add richness.
- Onion (1, diced) – Provides sweetness and aromatic depth.
- Carrots (2 medium, diced) – Adds natural sweetness and texture.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Enhances savory flavor.
- Chicken stock (4 cups) – Forms the flavorful base; can substitute with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
- Cornstarch (¼ cup) – Thickens the soup for a creamy texture.
- Milk (1 cup) – Helps create a smooth, rich broth.
- Potatoes (2 large, peeled and chopped into ½-inch cubes) – Tender and hearty, forming the body of the soup.
- Broccoli florets (16 ounces, fresh or frozen) – Adds color, nutrition, and flavor.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1½ cups, shredded) – Melts into the soup for creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Salt (½ teaspoon) & Pepper (¼ teaspoon) – Essential seasoning to taste.
How to Make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
Sauté the Vegetables
Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add carrots, salt, and pepper; cook for another 3–4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Simmer the Potatoes
Add the chopped potatoes and chicken stock to the skillet. Cover and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Add the Broccoli
Stir in the broccoli florets and continue simmering until both broccoli and potatoes are fork-tender, about 10 more minutes.
Thicken the Soup
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with milk until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the hot soup to thicken the broth.
Add the Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated, creating a rich, creamy texture.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli depending on availability.
- Grate your own cheese for smoother melting and richer flavor.
- Adjust thickness by adding more milk or broth if too thick, or simmering longer if too thin.
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or soup pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small mixing bowl
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock.
- Cheese Twist: Swap cheddar for Gruyère, Swiss, or a blend of cheeses.
- Extra Veggies: Add cauliflower, zucchini, or peas for added nutrition.
- Spicy Version: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a warm baguette.
- Top with extra shredded cheese, croutons, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors develop even more if refrigerated for a few hours before serving. Reheat gently on the stove.
Can I freeze Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Just add it directly to the soup during the simmering step; no need to thaw.
How can I make it creamier?
Increase the amount of milk or cheese, or blend a portion of the soup for an ultra-smooth texture.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, substitute cornstarch with a gluten-free thickener or use arrowroot powder.
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This comforting Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is a creamy, hearty meal filled with tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for chilly days and family meals.
Ingredients
- 1 to 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/2 inch cubes
- 16 ounces broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
Instructions
- Melt 1-2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté onion until softened, about 3 minutes. Add carrots, salt, and pepper; cook 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
- Add potatoes and chicken stock. Cover and bring to simmer. Simmer about 10 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Add broccoli and continue simmering until both broccoli and potatoes are fork-tender, about 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, stir cornstarch into milk until smooth. Stir this mixture into hot soup.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese.
- If too thick, add more milk or broth. If too thin, simmer a few more minutes to thicken.
- Allow soup to cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and comforting. Quick to make and full of wholesome ingredients, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, cozy lunches, or family dinners. Serve it piping hot with your favorite bread, enjoy the cheesy goodness, and watch it quickly become a beloved recipe in your home.
