Name: Creamy Cheddar Broccoli and Potato Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Creamy Cheddar Broccoli and Potato Soup 🥣🧀🥔🌱

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a warm, hearty vegetable soup packed with the richness of cheddar cheese, then this creamy potato broccoli soup recipe is perfect for you. Combining the creaminess of potatoes and the fresh, vibrant flavor of broccoli, this dish offers a comforting experience on chilly days. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this hearty vegetable soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and delight your taste buds.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Potato Broccoli Soup

4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare the Creamy Cheddar Broccoli and Potato Soup

Prepare the vegetables

Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set aside.

Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the potatoes and broccoli

Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Add the broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and slightly crisp.

Puree the soup

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until creamy. Return the blended soup to the pot.

Add cream and cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Simmer for a few more minutes to allow flavors to meld.

4. Storage Tips for Leftovers

Let the creamy potato broccoli soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. Serving Suggestions for This Hearty Vegetable Soup

This hearty vegetable soup pairs beautifully with warm slices of garlic butter bread rolls or a simple side salad. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese or freshly chopped chives for added flavor. For an extra crunch, top with crispy bacon bits or toasted croutons.

6. Variations and Substitutions

Use plant-based cheese to make a vegan-friendly version.
Substitute heavy cream with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Spice it up with cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce for added heat.
Adding cooked bacon or sausage can turn this into a filling main course.

7. FAQs About Creamy Cheddar Broccoli and Potato Soup

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just add it during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking to preserve its flavor and texture.

Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?

To make this hearty vegetable soup vegan, replace cheddar cheese with vegan cheese and heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total cooking time is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and comforting creamy potato broccoli soup recipe.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Combine all ingredients except the cheese and cream in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then add cheese and cream before serving.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

To make your cooking experience smoother, consider using these helpful tools:

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — for quick reheating or making crispy toppings.
T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set — ensures even cooking and easy cleanup while preparing this soup.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer — perfect for side dishes or toasted bread to serve alongside.
KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer — useful if you want to make homemade bread or toppings.

9. Conclusion

This creamy potato broccoli soup is a delightful way to enjoy wholesome vegetables with a cheesy, comforting twist. Its rich flavor, smooth texture, and versatile ingredients make it a perfect choice for anyone looking to indulge in a nourishing, hearty vegetable soup. Try it today and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness that feels like a hug in a mug!

Creamy Cheddar Broccoli and Potato Soup