Name: Cheesy Potato & Broccoli Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 cup carrots, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 3 cups diced potatoes (russet or Yukon gold); 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional); 1 1/2 cups whole milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Craving a comforting bowl of something rich, creamy, and packed with veggies? Imagine diving into a warm, velvety soup where sharp cheddar meets tender potatoes and vibrant broccoli in every spoonful. This Cheesy Potato & Broccoli Soup is exactly that—a cozy, flavor-packed recipe that turns simple ingredients into a soul-soothing meal.

Perfect for chilly nights, quick weeknight dinners, or lazy Sundays, this soup doesn’t just fill your belly—it hugs you from the inside out. You’ll love how it combines the wholesomeness of broccoli, the heartiness of potatoes, and the indulgent creaminess of cheese. It’s a bowlful of home, every time.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before we get cooking, having the right tools can make your soup-making seamless and stress-free. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Pot or Dutch Oven: The foundation of this soup. It allows for even cooking and enough space to simmer everything together.
Ladle: For serving cleanly and efficiently without making a mess.
Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: Prep work is key, so a good cutting surface and sharp knife will help you dice potatoes and chop broccoli easily.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Stirring gently without scratching your cookware.
Immersion Blender (Optional): If you like a smoother texture, blend part of the soup.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensures your flavor balance is just right.

Each tool plays its role in ensuring a smooth process, from sautéing onions to serving the final, cheesy delight into bowls.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Potato & Broccoli Soup

This recipe brings together humble ingredients that create magic when simmered together. Here’s what makes this soup so irresistible:

Potatoes – The creamy base. Use russet or Yukon gold for the best texture.
Broccoli – Adds freshness and nutritional depth; florets work best here.
Cheddar Cheese – The star of the show, giving the soup its luscious, melty richness.
Carrots – Bring a slight sweetness and color contrast to the mix.
Onion – Builds a flavor base that enhances the cheesy profile.
Garlic – A few cloves go a long way in deepening the savory notes.
Butter – Used for sautéing and adding richness.
Flour – Helps thicken the soup without needing cream.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth – The liquid component that ties it all together.
Milk – Adds creaminess without overwhelming the flavors.
Salt & Pepper – For seasoning and balance.
Thyme or Italian Herbs (optional) – Add a hint of herbaceous aroma.

How To Make the Cheesy Potato & Broccoli Soup

Step 1: Start the Flavor Base

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onions and carrots, sautéing until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Soup Body

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the broth, ensuring no lumps form.

Step 3: Simmer the Hearty Stuff

Add the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and herbs. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they’re bright green and fork-tender. If you prefer a slightly smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender at this stage to partially blend the soup.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the milk. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and the soup is velvety.

Step 6: Taste and Serve

Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with extra shredded cheese or a sprinkle of herbs on top.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Potato & Broccoli Soup

This soup shines when served piping hot, straight from the stove into a cozy bowl. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar or a pinch of dried herbs for visual and flavor contrast. Pair it with crusty bread, soft dinner rolls, or even a crisp side salad for a complete, satisfying meal.

Got leftovers? Lucky you. This soup stores beautifully. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently over the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the texture if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer an ultra-thick soup, increase the flour slightly or let it simmer uncovered longer to reduce. A partial blend with an immersion blender also thickens without losing texture.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely. Just toss it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. It may be softer than fresh, but it works well and is super convenient.

Is it gluten-free?

Not by default, due to the flour. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch slurry.

Can I add meat?

Yes! Cooked bacon bits or shredded rotisserie chicken can be stirred in just before serving for a heartier soup.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar offers the boldest flavor. You can mix in mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Parmesan for extra depth.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can, by swapping butter for oil, milk for a non-dairy alternative, and using dairy-free cheese. The texture will change slightly but still be delicious.

Want More Cozy Soup Ideas?

If you’re all about hearty bowls that warm you to the core, you’re in for a treat. The Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a similar take with a smoother, café-style finish. Or switch it up with a Hearty Tuscan Bean Soup that leans on legumes for protein-packed comfort.

Looking for something with a twist? Try the Cajun Potato Soup for a spicy Southern variation. Or dig into the Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup, rich and indulgent with a one-pot charm.

For cooler nights when you crave familiar flavors, the Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup offers nostalgic comfort in every spoonful.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your soup and comfort food boards for later. Just click the Pin button.

When you make it, I’d love to know how it turned out. Did you go heavy on the cheddar? Did you blend the potatoes smooth or leave them chunky? Share your spin in the comments.

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