Description
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
Looking for comfort in a bowl? This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is the perfect cozy dish, loaded with hearty potatoes, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, cheesy flavor that warms you from the inside out. It’s an all-time favorite in our home, especially on chilly nights when nothing else hits the spot. With a few simple ingredients, this soup comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for lazy weekends or whenever you’re in the mood for something wholesome and satisfying.
1-2 tbsp butter
1 onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken stock
¼ cup cornstarch
1 cup milk
2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
16 oz broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
Directions
1. Melt butter, sauté onion until soft. Add carrots, salt, and pepper; cook 3-4 min.
2. Add garlic, sauté 30 sec. Add potatoes, chicken stock. Simmer 10 min.
3. Add broccoli; simmer until tender, 10 min.
4. Stir cornstarch into milk, add to soup. Stir in cheese until melted. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 40 mins
Kcal: 384 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect soup every time. First, in a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Next, add the diced carrots, salt, and pepper, cooking for another 3-4 minutes to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until aromatic. Add the chopped potatoes and chicken stock, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes. Add the broccoli florets, cover again, and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the potatoes and broccoli are fork-tender. In a separate small bowl, whisk the cornstarch into the milk until completely smooth. Slowly pour this slurry into the simmering soup, stirring constantly. Allow the soup to thicken for 2-3 minutes. Finally, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a meal in itself but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve it in a deep bowl with a side of crusty bread, garlic toast, or warm breadsticks for dipping. For added crunch, top with extra shredded cheese, croutons, or crispy bacon bits. A fresh, simple side salad with a light vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness perfectly.
How-to Summary
Sauté onions, carrots, and garlic. Simmer potatoes in broth until tender. Add broccoli and cook. Thicken with a cornstarch-milk slurry, then stir in cheese off the heat until melted and smooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes. Sauté the aromatics first for best flavor, then add everything except the cornstarch slurry and cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Before serving, stir in the slurry and cheese.
How can I make this soup vegetarian? Simply substitute the chicken stock with an equal amount of vegetable broth.
Why is my cheese grainy or stringy? This happens if cheese is added to boiling soup. Always remove the pot from heat before stirring in the cheese, and add it gradually.
Can I freeze this soup? Freezing is not recommended as dairy-based soups can separate and become grainy upon thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh.
What can I use instead of cornstarch to thicken? Make a roux with equal parts butter and flour cooked for 1-2 minutes at the beginning, or blend a portion of the cooked potatoes and broccoli to naturally thicken the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding cheese while the soup is boiling, which causes it to break and become oily.
- Not whisking the cornstarch thoroughly into the cold milk, leading to lumps in the soup.
- Overcooking the broccoli, which turns it mushy and dulls its vibrant green color.
- Using pre-shredded bagged cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting.
- Underseasoning. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end, after the cheese has been added.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is the ultimate comfort food, masterfully combining simple, wholesome ingredients into a creamy and satisfying dish. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality soup at home. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that promises warmth and comfort in every spoonful, making it a reliable favorite for any occasion.