If you’re craving a wholesome bowl of comfort, this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is the perfect answer. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender veggies that come together in a way that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Every spoonful offers a lovely balance of buttery richness, fresh broccoli, and silky potatoes, making it a favorite for both family dinners and casual gatherings. This soup isn’t just simple to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that brings joy to the table with every serving.

Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color. From creamy potatoes to sharp cheddar, these essentials come together to create a truly satisfying experience.

Butter: Use 1 to 2 tablespoons to sauté your veggies for a rich, buttery base.
Onion (diced): Adds natural sweetness and depth after being softened in butter.
Carrots (diced): Bring a subtle earthiness and a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
Garlic (minced): Provides a punch of aromatic flavor that enhances the entire soup.
Chicken stock (4 cups): Builds a savory liquid foundation that ties all the ingredients together.
Cornstarch (¼ cup): Combined with milk to thicken the soup perfectly without heaviness.
Milk (1 cup): Adds creaminess and smooth texture when blended with cornstarch.
Potatoes (2 large, peeled and cubed): Create heartiness and a velvety mouthfeel once cooked until tender.
Broccoli florets (16 ounces, fresh or frozen): The star veggie that adds freshness and vibrant green color.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1½ cups): Melts into the soup to provide that irresistible cheesy goodness.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors within the soup.
Ground pepper (¼ teaspoon): Offers just enough heat to complement the cheese and veggies.

How to Make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Vegetables

Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it soften gently, which brings out its natural sweetness. Next, add the diced carrots along with salt and pepper and cook until they start to tenderize. Finish this step by stirring in the minced garlic for a quick burst of aromatic goodness. This foundational sauté layer sets the tone for the rest of the soup, building complexity right from the start.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes in Broth

Add the peeled and cubed potatoes along with the chicken stock to the skillet. Cover it up and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about ten minutes or until the potatoes begin to soften. This simmering not only cooks your potatoes perfectly, but also infuses the broth with their natural starchiness, which helps create the body of the soup.

Step 3: Add Broccoli and Continue Simmering

Once the potatoes are tender, add your broccoli florets to the pot. Depending on whether you’re using fresh or frozen, continue simmering the soup until the broccoli is just tender—roughly another ten minutes. The goal here is to have vibrant, tender broccoli that still maintains its bright color and texture, keeping the soup lively and fresh.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and milk until completely smooth. Pour this mixture into the simmering soup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. This clever step thickens the soup just right, giving it that lovely creamy texture without making it too heavy or gloopy.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Finally, add in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir gently until all the cheese has melted into the soup, imparting a rich, smooth, and slightly tangy flavor. This cheesy finale makes your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe truly indulgent and comforting—ready to serve right away!

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Top your soup with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar for a cheesy mountain peak or a dash of freshly ground black pepper to awaken your palate. For added freshness, chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits can bring a delightful crunch that beautifully complements the creamy base of the soup.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with crusty bread or warm garlic rolls to soak up every last cheesy drop. A side salad with a light vinaigrette is also a welcome companion, adding crispness that balances the richness of the Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls to wow your guests and add an inviting rustic charm. Alternatively, layering the soup with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of paprika or smoked paprika makes for a stunning presentation. Don’t forget a few freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives to add a fresh pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to four days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully overnight, making your next meal just as delightful without any extra effort.

Freezing

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe freezes well, which makes it perfect for busy weeks. Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for a comforting meal, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning or sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid overheating, as it can cause the cheese to separate.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just swap the chicken stock for a vegetable broth and you’ll maintain wonderful depth of flavor while keeping the recipe vegetarian-friendly.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe and is a convenient option. Just add it directly to the soup during the simmering step, allowing a few extra minutes for it to cook through.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for the perfect balance of tang and meltability, but you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

How do I get the soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can increase the cornstarch slightly but be careful not to add too much, as it can become gummy. Alternatively, reduce some of the broth before adding the thickening mixture.

Is this soup kid-friendly?

Definitely! The creamy, cheesy flavor tends to be a hit with kids. You can adjust the seasoning to be milder if your children prefer less pepper and serve with fun-shaped bread or veggies on the side.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser that feels like comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, it offers satisfying flavors and textures that everyone will love. Give it a try—you just might find yourself making it over and over again!