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Creamy Loaded Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup

creamy loaded broccoli cheddar potato soup - featured image

A rich and comforting soup combining sharp cheddar, tender broccoli, and creamy potatoes, perfect for cozy winter evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped (or frozen)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup whole milk (or 2% or dairy-free milk alternative)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour/cornstarch substitute)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: cooked crispy bacon bits, chopped chives, smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Peel and dice the potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes. Chop the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic (about 10 minutes).
  2. Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding burning.
  3. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the butter, onion, and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until it forms a paste and smells nutty.
  4. Slowly pour in 4 cups (960 ml) of broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add diced potatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  5. Add chopped broccoli and 1 cup (240 ml) of milk. Simmer uncovered for 5-7 minutes until broccoli is tender but vibrant green.
  6. Partially blend the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender, blending just enough to thicken while leaving some chunks for texture (3-4 minutes).
  7. Lower heat to very low. Gradually stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Optionally stir in bacon bits or smoked paprika.
  8. Let the soup warm gently for 2-3 minutes without boiling. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with chopped chives or extra cheese on top.

Notes

Use sharp cheddar for best flavor. Avoid boiling after adding cheese to prevent graininess. If soup thickens too much, stir in broth or milk. Frozen broccoli can be added directly. For gluten-free, substitute flour with gluten-free blend or cornstarch (half amount).

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, potato soup, creamy soup, winter comfort food, easy soup recipe, loaded potato soup