Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Rich & Velvety – Potatoes and sharp cheddar create a naturally creamy, luscious base—no heavy cream needed.
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Packed with Veggies – Fresh broccoli adds color, texture, and nutrients.
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One-Pot Wonder – Quick to make and easy to clean—perfect for busy nights.
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Customizable – Add bacon, extra veggies, or spice it up to suit your taste.
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Family Favorite – Cozy, comforting, and great for meal prep or gatherings.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the Soup:
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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3 medium potatoes, peeled & diced (about 3 cups)
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2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
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4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
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1 cup milk (whole or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
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Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
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Crumbled bacon
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Sliced green onions
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Extra shredded cheddar
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Sour cream or Greek yogurt
How to Make It
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
2. Cook the Potatoes
Add potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Add the Broccoli
Stir in broccoli and continue simmering for 5–7 minutes until tender yet vibrant green.
4. Blend (Optional)
For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend, leaving some chunks for texture. Skip this step for a chunkier soup.
5. Add Cheese & Milk
Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar until melted. Pour in milk and stir until creamy and heated through. Season with salt & pepper to taste.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Ladle into bowls, top with the remaining cheddar, and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Why This Recipe Works
✔ Naturally Creamy – Potatoes create a thick, smooth texture without added cream.
✔ Bold & Cheesy – Sharp cheddar melts into a rich, flavorful base.
✔ Fresh & Hearty – Broccoli balances the richness with a boost of nutrients.
Variations to Try
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Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken, sausage, or crispy bacon.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in cayenne, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
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Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese.
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Extra Veggies: Add carrots, celery, or spinach for more nutrition.
Pro Tips for Success
🧀 Shred Your Own Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
🔥 Low Heat for Cheese – Avoid boiling after adding cheese to prevent curdling.
🥄 Storage & Reheating – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
Serving Ideas
🍞 Bread Bowl Magic: Serve in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic touch.
🥗 Pair It Up: Enjoy with crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh side salad.
🥣 Soup Bar Fun: Set up a toppings bar with bacon bits, sour cream, and green onions for a customizable experience.
Final Thoughts
This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether for a cozy dinner, a holiday appetizer, or meal prep, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy potato soup? Share your tips and toppings below! 🥔🧀
