If you are craving a comforting bowl of velvety richness filled with vibrant greens and hearty bites, this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is an absolute must-try. It brings together tender potatoes, crisp broccoli florets, and creamy cheddar in a luscious broth that warms you from the inside out. Every spoonful bursts with depth of flavor and a satisfying cheesiness that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this soup is a delicious crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.

Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and create the perfect texture balance—smooth and chunky, mild and sharp, creamy and fresh green. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce, you’re on track for a sensational homemade soup.

1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps soften the onions while cooking.
1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness to form the flavor base.
3 large white potatoes, peeled and cubed: Give body and creaminess once cooked and blended.
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth to keep vegetarian): Forms the savory liquid foundation for the soup.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
6 cups broccoli florets: Bring vibrant color, texture, and fresh vegetal notes.
3 cups whole milk: Adds creamy smoothness to the broth without overpowering it.
3 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for that signature cheesy indulgence.
2 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the soup slightly while mixing with the cheese.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Offers just the right touch of kick and warmth.

How to Make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

Step 1: Soften Your Onions

Start by melting that butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the chopped yellow onion and let it cook gently for about 4 to 5 minutes. You want them softened and fragrant, not browned. This step is key because it releases those sweet onion flavors that add a delightful depth to the soup’s foundation.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes in Broth

Next, add the peeled and cubed potatoes directly into the pot along with your chicken or vegetable broth and kosher salt. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat so it simmers steadily. Let the potatoes cook for roughly 8 minutes until they’re fork-tender. This is where the hearty body of your soup is formed. Then, use an immersion blender or potato masher to blend the potatoes just enough to create a thick and creamy base but leave some lovely little chunks for texture.

Step 3: Add Broccoli and Milk

Stir in the broccoli florets and pour in the milk, bringing the soup back up to a boil before reducing it to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and remains slightly firm—al dente—so it adds a fresh crunch and color contrast that balances the softness of the potatoes and melted cheese.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese Perfectly

Here’s a little trick: toss your shredded cheddar cheese with the flour to prevent clumping when it hits the hot soup. Add the cheese mixture in small batches—about a cup at a time—and stir thoroughly after each addition until completely melted. This gradual melting ensures your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup has a smooth, creamy texture without any graininess. Finish with freshly ground black pepper and adjust salt as needed to round out the flavor.

How to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

Garnishes

To elevate your bowl, sprinkle a few freshly chopped chives or crispy bacon bits on top. A dollop of sour cream or a dash of smoked paprika can add delightful layers of flavor and contrast your creamy soup beautifully. These little touches make the experience feel extra special and inviting.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or toasted crusty bread to soak up every last spoonful. Garlic breadsticks or a warm whole grain roll also make excellent companions by adding a satisfying crunch and chew alongside the silky, cheesy soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup in mini bread bowls for a crowd-friendly presentation. Alternatively, ladle it over baked potatoes or even use it as a sauce base for baked pasta dishes. The possibilities are endless and delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day lunches or quick dinners. Just give it a gentle stir before reheating.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully, which is great for meal prepping. Let it cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the best consistency and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from clumping or sticking to the pan. If the soup thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it back up to its perfect creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup will be deliciously vegetarian without sacrificing flavor.

What cheese works best in this soup?

Medium cheddar is perfect here because it melts smoothly and offers a balanced sharpness. You can experiment with sharp cheddar or even a blend with Monterey Jack for a milder taste.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well and is very convenient. Just add it a bit earlier since it cooks faster, and adjust cooking time to avoid over-softening.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Not as written due to the flour. But you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch slurry to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive folks.

How do I make the soup creamier?

Using whole milk adds creaminess, but for an extra indulgent touch, you can add a splash of heavy cream at the end or blend more of the potatoes until very smooth.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you make this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup, it will quickly become your go-to comfort food that’s as nourishing as it is indulgent. Easy to prepare yet impressive in taste and texture, it’s the kind of recipe that warms your soul and brings smiles to the table. So go ahead, cozy up with a big bowl, and enjoy every cheesy, creamy, veggie-packed bite!