Broccoli, Potato & Cheddar Soup

This Broccoli, Potato & Cheddar Soup is a creamy, hearty bowl of comfort that’s perfect for cozy nights or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Packed with tender broccoli, soft potatoes, and rich cheddar cheese, this soup is both nutritious and indulgent. With its velvety texture and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for chilly evenings or anytime you need a comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Creamy & Cheesy: A luscious blend of heavy cream and sharp cheddar creates a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Nutritious & Filling: Loaded with wholesome broccoli and potatoes, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add toppings, or tweak the consistency to suit your preferences.

 Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

For the Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons butter 🧈
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 🫒
• 1 medium onion , finely chopped 🧅
• 2 cloves garlic , minced 🧄
• 3 cups broccoli florets , chopped 🥦
• 2 medium potatoes , peeled and diced 🥔
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth 🥣
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option ) 🥛
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese , shredded 🧀
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor ) 🌿
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste ) 🧂
• ½ teaspoon black pepper 🌶️

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky touch ) 🔥
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat ) 🌋

 Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics 🔥

1. In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes , stirring occasionally, until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute , until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables 🥔🥦

1. Add the chopped broccoli and diced potatoes to the pot.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes , or until the potatoes and broccoli are tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup 🥣

1. Using an immersion blender , puree the soup to your desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture.
2. If using a countertop blender , blend in batches, then return the soup to the pot.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese 🧀

1. Stir in the heavy cream , shredded cheddar cheese , Dijon mustard (if using), salt , and black pepper .
2. Cook over low heat, stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust 🍴

1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt , pepper , or additional cheese as desired.
2. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to reach your preferred consistency.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Garnish with extra shredded cheddar , a sprinkle of paprika , or crispy bacon bits for added flavor and texture.
• Serve with crusty bread , garlic toast , or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

💡 Pro Tips for Success:

1. Cheese Choice: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melting and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which may contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
2. Consistency: Blend more or less soup depending on how creamy or chunky you like it.
3. Reheating: Warm leftovers over low heat to prevent the cheese from separating. Stir frequently and add a splash of broth or milk if needed.

⏰ Time Breakdown:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Makes 6):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 22g

This Broccoli, Potato & Cheddar Soup is a bowl of pure comfort that’s both hearty and wholesome. The combination of creamy potatoes, vibrant broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese makes every spoonful a delight. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or pairing it with crusty bread, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Customize it, garnish it, and savor every bite—it’s comfort food at its finest!