It was a chilly afternoon when I found a recipe for broccoli potato cheese soup. It was the perfect time for a warm, creamy soup. I remembered enjoying it with my family before.
The soup had green broccoli and melted cheese. It was loved by everyone, kids and adults.
The recipe had frozen broccoli, potatoes, and lots of cheese. It’s great for any season. It’s easy to make and brings back good memories.
Let’s make this delicious soup together. It’s a mix of broccoli, potatoes, and cheese. It’s loved by many in the United States.
What Makes Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup a Comfort Food?
Broccoli potato cheese soup is a true comfort food. It feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for cold days.
Every spoonful takes me back to home-cooked meals with loved ones. It’s not just warm. It also makes me feel good inside.
Warmth and Coziness of Soup
Enjoying a warm bowl of soup is very comforting. Broccoli potato cheese soup has just the right mix of flavors. It makes me feel happy and content.
Adding garlic, onions, and cheddar cheese makes it even better. The creamy texture and rich cheese are perfect for cold nights.
Perfect for Any Season
This soup is great all year. In warm months, it’s light and refreshing. In cool months, it’s hearty and satisfying.
It’s always a good choice, no matter the season. It’s a warm, fulfilling meal whenever I need it.
Delicious Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe
Making homemade broccoli potato cheese soup is fun. It ends in a warm, tasty bowl. I’ll list the ingredients and guide you through cooking it.
Ingredients for the Perfect Soup
- 5 1/2 Tbsp butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 1/3 cups chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 3 large white potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 6 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Melt butter in a big pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until they’re soft.
- Put potatoes in the pot and add chicken broth. Boil, then simmer for 10 minutes until potatoes are done.
- While potatoes cook, prep broccoli. Add it to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- In another bowl, mix flour and milk until smooth. Stir this into the soup to thicken.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
This recipe makes 8 servings, great for sharing. Enjoy this soup as a comforting meal anytime!
Variations of Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
There are many ways to make broccoli potato cheese soup your own. You can change it to fit your diet and taste. This makes the soup special for everyone.
Vegan and Vegetarian Alternatives
Want a vegan soup? Use plant-based stuff instead of dairy. Try cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a creamy, tasty soup. This way, you get a comforting soup that’s good for many diets.
Using Different Cheeses for Flavor
Change the cheese to make your soup taste better. Cheeses like Gruyere or blue cheese add a unique flavor. This lets you find the perfect mix for a cozy meal.
| Ingredient | Standard Version | Vegetarian Version | Vegan Version |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dairy Cream | Heavy Whipping Cream | Half and Half | Cashew Cream |
| Cheese Type | Sharp Cheddar | Gruyere | Nutritional Yeast |
| Broth Type | Chicken Broth | Vegetable Broth | Vegetable Broth |
Homemade Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup vs. Store-Bought
Choosing between homemade broccoli potato cheese soup and store-bought can affect health and money. Making it myself is better for many reasons. I love making my own recipe and it’s healthier and cheaper too.
Health Benefits of Homemade Soup
Homemade soup means fresh ingredients and no preservatives. I can control the salt, making it fit my diet. Each serving has about 146 calories.
This recipe uses healthy ingredients like broccoli, potato, and cheese. It’s a nutritious meal.
- 3 cups of broccoli florets
- 1 large russet potato
- 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Medium yellow onion
Using fresh broccoli makes the soup more nutritious. It also helps reduce waste.
Cost-Effectiveness of Making Your Own
Making my own soup is healthier and cheaper. Ingredients cost about $15, while store-bought is $5 to $10 per serving. Homemade soup makes a lot, so I can eat it for days.
| Category | Homemade | Store-Bought |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per Serving | $2.50 | $5.00 – $10.00 |
| Portion Size | 10 cups (6 servings) | 1 bowl |
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes total | Ready-to-eat |
| Health Quality | Fresh, customizable | Preservatives, higher sodium |
Homemade broccoli potato cheese soup is tasty and budget-friendly. It’s also healthier, making every bite better for me.
Nutrition Information for Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
Knowing the nutrition of my favorite Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup makes it even better. It’s full of veggies and protein-rich cheese. This mix gives you a good balance of nutrients.
Caloric Content and Nutritional Benefits
Let’s dive into the calories and health perks of this tasty soup. It has about 243 calories per serving. A bowl gives you important vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C and Calcium.
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 243 |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 11g |
| Sodium | 446mg |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Calcium | 410mg |
| Vitamin A | 1300 IU |
| Vitamin C | 153.5mg |
Understanding Serving Sizes
Serving sizes are key to managing what we eat. They help us get the most from the broccoli potato cheese soup. A serving is about 1 cup. It’s perfect for a snack or part of a meal.
Best Way to Store and Reheat Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
Storing and reheating your easy broccoli potato cheese soup right keeps it tasty. Follow these tips to keep the soup creamy and flavorful. This way, you can enjoy it whenever you want.
Refrigeration Tips
For short-term storage, put the soup in an airtight container and chill it. It stays good for up to 5 days. Let it cool down first to avoid it getting watery.
When reheating, check if it’s separated. Stir it well before heating.
Freezing and Thawing the Soup
Freezing is great for longer storage. The soup can stay frozen for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers and leave space for expansion.
When thawing, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently on the stove. Freezing might change the texture, so enjoy it fresh if you can.
Pairing Suggestions with Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup tastes better with the right sides and drinks. Think about what you want to eat with it. These ideas will make your meal better, mixing the soup’s rich taste with lighter or different flavors.
What to Serve With Your Soup
Many like to eat hearty soups like broccoli cheese with bread or bread bowls. Here are some great choices:
- Homemade bread bowls—these can be made with just four ingredients and make eating fun.
- Crispy green bean fries or zucchini fritters add a crunchy texture that goes well with creamy soups.
- Refreshing salads with sweet fruits, like pears or apples, offer a nice contrast.
- Vegetarian-friendly options like grilled cauliflower steaks are healthy and tasty.
- Spicy black bean fritters add a flavorful kick to balance the soup’s richness.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Choosing the right drink is key for a great meal. Here are some drink pairing ideas:
- A light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, goes well with the creamy texture.
- Chardonnay complements the flavors, even more if it’s aged in oak.
- A crisp cider offers a refreshing contrast to the richness.
- Sparkling water with a lemon slice is a great non-alcoholic choice, refreshing your taste buds.
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Ingredients Overview
Learning about broccoli potato cheese soup’s ingredients makes cooking fun. Each part adds flavor and nutrition to this cozy dish. I’ll tell you about the main ingredients and how to swap out common allergens. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty soup.
Key Ingredients and Their Functions
- Butter: Makes it rich and creamy.
- Onion: Adds a savory taste.
- Garlic: Gives a strong smell and taste.
- Carrots: Add sweetness and color.
- Potatoes: Make it thick and hearty.
- Broccoli: Adds health benefits and green color.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts for creamy cheese flavor.
- Evaporated milk or cream: Makes it smooth and rich.
- Salt and pepper: Enhance the taste.
Substitutes for Common Allergens
It’s key to make broccoli potato cheese soup for everyone. Here are some swaps for common allergens:
- Dairy-free cheese: Try almond or cashew cheese for dairy-free.
- Vegetable broth: Good for those with chicken allergies.
- Olive oil or coconut oil: Use these instead of butter for vegans.
- Gluten-free flour: Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free.
Tips for Making the Best Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
For the best broccoli potato cheese soup, pay attention to the little things. Sauté the onions until they’re clear. This makes the soup taste better. Cook them for 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat.
Start cooking the potatoes before adding broccoli. This helps everything cook evenly. Fresh broccoli and potatoes make the soup taste better and are healthier.
Adding salt, pepper, and dried mustard makes a big difference. It makes the soup taste amazing. The right seasoning makes it feel like a big hug in a bowl.
Don’t hurry the thickening process. Let the soup simmer for at least 15 minutes after adding milk and flour. This makes it creamy and delicious. Follow these tips to make a soup that’s both tasty and comforting.
