Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for cold weather or any time you need a bowl of creamy goodness? Look no further than this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup recipe. This rich and satisfying soup combines wholesome vegetables with cheesy deliciousness, making it an ideal dish for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer. If you're a fan of thick, hearty soups with a velvety texture and plenty of flavor, this is the recipe for you! Read on to discover the secrets to making the perfect bowl of Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup, along with tips, substitutions, and common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

What is Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is a thick, creamy soup that features three main ingredients: broccoli, potatoes, and cheese. This comforting soup is perfect for anyone who enjoys the earthy flavors of broccoli, the hearty texture of potatoes, and the creamy richness of cheese. The balance between these ingredients creates a dish that is both healthy and indulgent, making it a favorite for family dinners or potlucks. Not only is this soup easy to make, but it also provides a variety of vitamins and nutrients from the vegetables, making it a wholesome option that doesn't skimp on flavor.
Ingredients List for Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
Before you begin, gather all your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother and faster. Here's everything you'll need:
- 2 cups of broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen, chopped into small bite-sized pieces.
- 2 large potatoes – Peeled and cubed into small, even pieces for quicker cooking.
- 1 medium onion – Diced finely to add a subtle sweetness to the soup.
- 2 cloves of garlic – Minced for a mild garlicky kick.
- 4 cups of vegetable broth – You can also use chicken broth for added flavor.
- 1 cup of heavy cream – For the creamy, rich texture of the soup.
- 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar works best for a strong flavor, but mild cheddar can also be used.
- 2 tablespoons of butter – For sautéing and extra richness.
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour – To thicken the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.
- Optional: Crumbled bacon and chopped green onions – For garnish.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is its versatility. Here are some common substitutions and variations you can try:
- Vegan Version: Swap out the butter and heavy cream for dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk or cashew cream, and use a plant-based cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or grilled chicken to the soup for an extra layer of flavor and protein.
- Spicy Twist: For a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup.
- Lighter Option: If you want to cut calories, use milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through the step-by-step process to make this mouthwatering Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup.
How to Cook Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Start by prepping all your vegetables. Chop the broccoli florets into small, bite-sized pieces and peel and cube the potatoes. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Next, add the cubed potatoes to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Once the potatoes are almost fully cooked, stir in the chopped broccoli. Continue to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the broccoli becomes tender but still retains its bright green color.
Step 5: Make a Roux
In a small separate pan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, forming a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
Step 6: Add the Roux to the Soup
Slowly whisk the roux into the soup, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to simmer the soup for another 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 7: Add Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, stirring constantly to ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Blend for a Creamier Texture (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, leaving some chunks of vegetables for texture. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, puree it, and then return it to the pot.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup has reached your desired consistency and flavor, remove it from the heat. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of cream for extra flair.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Cooking the Potatoes Long Enough: Make sure the potatoes are fully tender before adding the broccoli. Undercooked potatoes can make the soup gritty and unpleasant.
- Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Gradually add the cheese to the soup. If you add it too fast, it can clump or become stringy.
- Skipping the Roux: Don’t skip the roux step, as it helps thicken the soup and gives it a silky texture.
- Overcooking the Broccoli: Be careful not to overcook the broccoli, or it will lose its bright color and become mushy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup, presentation can take this dish from everyday to extraordinary. Here are some tips to impress your guests:
How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
- In Bread Bowls: Serve your soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, hearty presentation. The bread will soak up the creamy soup, making it even more delicious.
- Topped with Crunch: Add a crunchy topping like croutons, crispy bacon, or toasted nuts for texture contrast.
- Accompanied by a Side Salad: Pair the soup with a light green salad or a slice of crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or a few pieces of roasted broccoli on top can enhance both the flavor and appearance.
- Swirl of Cream: A simple swirl of heavy cream on top of the soup creates a professional look and adds a rich finishing touch.
- Chopped Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top of the soup add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best in this recipe because of their creamy texture when cooked.
- Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: Use high-quality sharp cheddar for the best flavor. Grate the cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which can contain additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth. For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer after adding the roux.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?
A: Yes, but the texture may change slightly after freezing because of the dairy. To avoid graininess, freeze the soup before adding the cream and cheese, and then stir those ingredients in after reheating.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the soup a day or two in advance. Just reheat it gently, adding a splash of broth or milk to thin it out if necessary.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just add it directly to the soup without thawing, and increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutritious vegetables. Whether you're serving it for dinner or as a starter for a special occasion, this soup is sure to please. With easy-to-follow steps and plenty of room for customization, you'll find yourself making this recipe again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get cooking!
PrintBroccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe
This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup recipe is a delicious, creamy soup made with fresh broccoli, tender potatoes, and melted cheese. The perfect comfort meal, this soup is quick to make and packed with flavor, ideal for a cozy dinner or a simple lunch. The combination of ingredients creates a rich texture that pairs well with bread or salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cook until softened.
- Add potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until potatoes are tender (about 10-15 minutes).
- Add broccoli and cook for an additional 5 minutes until tender.
- Remove from heat and blend soup using an immersion blender or in batches using a blender until smooth.
- Stir in milk or cream, then add shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, use heavy cream.
- To add protein, consider adding cooked chicken or bacon.
- Adjust cheese to taste for a sharper or milder flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
Leave a Reply