Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup: 1 Amazing Comfort Soup

September 23, 2025

Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup has a special place in my heart, especially on those chilly evenings when all you crave is warmth and comfort. I remember my mom making a version of this soup when I was a kid, and the aroma of simmering vegetables and melting cheese filled our entire house. It’s truly a hug in a bowl! This recipe has quickly become my go-to for an easy broccoli potato cheese soup recipe because it’s so simple to whip up, yet it delivers that luxuriously creamy broccoli potato cheese soup texture and flavor we all love. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

You’re going to adore this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup for so many reasons! It’s incredibly satisfying with its rich, velvety texture and bursting with savory flavor.

It’s the ultimate comfort food, delivering a wonderfully cheesy broccoli potato soup experience.
Prep is a breeze, making it a truly easy broccoli potato cheese soup recipe for busy weeknights.
Packed with nutritious broccoli and potatoes, it’s a healthier way to enjoy a creamy soup.
It’s wonderfully budget-friendly, using simple, accessible ingredients.
This soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for picky eaters and family dinners.
You get that deeply satisfying, melt-in-your-mouth cheesy broccoli potato soup taste.
It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or a hearty starter.

Ingredients for Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

Gathering these simple broccoli potato cheese soup ingredients is the first step to a delicious meal. I find that using fresh vegetables really makes a difference in the final flavor and texture.

2 tablespoons olive oil – This is for sautéing our aromatics and getting the soup started.
1 medium onion, diced – A good base for any soup, it adds a subtle sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that savory depth of flavor.
2 cups chopped broccoli florets – The star of the show! Make sure they’re bite-sized.
2 cups diced potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes) – These will break down and create a lovely creamy texture. Russets or Yukon Golds work best.
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth – The liquid base that brings all the flavors together.
1 cup milk or cream – For that irresistible creamy, rich consistency. I often use whole milk, but heavy cream makes it extra decadent.
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – The key to that classic cheesy flavor! Sharp cheddar gives the best punch.
1 teaspoon salt – Or to taste, as broth can vary in saltiness.
½ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground pepper adds a nice bite.
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional) – Boosts the garlic flavor if you’re a big fan!
Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional) – A fresh touch to brighten the soup before serving.

How to Make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

Let’s dive into how to make broccoli potato cheese soup! It’s a straightforward process that yields incredible results.

Step 1: Get your pot ready. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 1 medium onion, diced, and sauté until it becomes nice and translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the aromatics. Stir in the 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as that can make it bitter.
Step 3: Introduce the potatoes. Add the 2 cups diced potatoes to the pot. Give them a good stir to coat them in the oil and onion mixture.
Step 4: Add the liquid base. Pour in the 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, making sure the potatoes are completely submerged. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Time for the green goodness! Stir in the 2 cups chopped broccoli florets and season everything with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and the optional 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
Step 6: Let it simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until both the potatoes and broccoli are perfectly tender when pierced with a fork.

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Step 7: Achieve creaminess. If you prefer a smoother soup, now’s the time to use an immersion blender. Carefully purée some or all of the soup directly in the pot until you reach your desired consistency. This is a key step in how to make broccoli potato cheese soup truly velvety.
Step 8: Stir in the dairy and cheese. Return the soup to low heat. Gradually stir in the 1 cup milk or cream and the 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is wonderfully creamy.
Step 9: Taste and adjust. Give your delicious creation a taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
Step 10: Serve it up! Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if you like for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your amazing homemade broccoli potato cheese soup!

Pro Tips for the Best Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

Want to elevate your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference!

For the creamiest soup, don’t skip the step of puréeing part of it with an immersion blender. This creates a wonderfully thick broccoli potato cheese soup without needing a separate thickener.
When adding the cheese, make sure your soup isn’t boiling. Gentle heat ensures it melts smoothly into the soup, preventing a greasy or grainy texture.
Experiment with different types of cheese! While sharp cheddar is my favorite for that classic flavor, a mix of Gruyere or Monterey Jack can add delightful complexity.
Don’t overcook the broccoli. It should be tender but still have a vibrant green color. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its fresh flavor.

What’s the secret to perfect Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?

The key to a truly perfect, thick broccoli potato cheese soup is creating a smooth base by puréeing about half of the cooked potatoes and broccoli. This naturally thickens the soup without needing flour or cornstarch, giving it an amazing creamy texture.

Can I make Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup base (up to step 6) a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Then, when you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the base, add the milk/cream and cheese, and finish it off as usual. It’s a great meal prep strategy. For more meal prep ideas, check out these weight loss recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?

A common pitfall is adding the cheese to boiling soup, which can cause it to separate. Always melt the cheese over low heat. Also, avoid over-blending if you prefer some texture; just pulse it a few times. For more cooking tips, you might find this guide on cooking techniques helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

This hearty Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is wonderfully versatile and pairs perfectly with a variety of delicious sides. It’s a meal in itself, but I love serving it with a crusty baguette for dipping – it’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that cheesy goodness!

For a light lunch, serve a smaller bowl alongside a fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. The crispness of the salad is a lovely contrast to the creamy soup.
If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, this soup is fantastic with grilled cheese sandwiches. It’s a classic combo that never disappoints and makes for a truly comforting dinner.
When considering a potato broccoli cheese soup recipe for a potluck or family gathering, it also goes beautifully with a side of simple cornbread or savory muffins. You can find more recipes like these on our site.

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Nutrition Facts for Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup. It’s a satisfying meal that offers a good balance of nutrients.

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: N/A
Protein: 10g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, like the type of milk or cheese you choose. For other healthy options, consider trying our turkey meatloaf recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Homemade Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

One of the best things about this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or saving leftovers for another day. Once your delicious soup has cooled down completely, transfer it into airtight containers. For refrigeration, it will keep wonderfully in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you want to keep this comforting soup even longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months! For more freezing tips, you can consult resources on food preservation.

When you’re ready to enjoy your chilled or frozen soup, reheating is simple. For refrigerated soup, gently warm it in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight first. Then, you can follow the stovetop method. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating. Just be patient – this homemade broccoli potato cheese soup is worth the wait!

Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup

Is this Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is naturally a delicious vegetarian broccoli potato cheese soup when you use vegetable broth! It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for anyone looking for a meat-free option. If you use chicken broth, it won’t be vegetarian, so just be mindful of your broth choice.

Can I make this a simple broccoli potato cheese soup with fewer ingredients?

You can certainly simplify this simple broccoli potato cheese soup further. If you’re in a real pinch, you could skip the optional garlic powder and even the fresh chives or parsley for garnish. The core ingredients – broccoli, potatoes, broth, onion, garlic, milk, and cheese – are essential for that classic flavor profile.

What kind of potatoes are best for Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup?

For the best texture, I highly recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. These potatoes break down beautifully as they cook, contributing to that naturally creamy and thick consistency without needing extra thickeners. They’re perfect for achieving that desired texture in your broccoli potato cheese soup.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your broccoli potato cheese soup. Carrots, celery, or even a bit of cauliflower can be added along with the potatoes and broccoli to boost the vegetable content and add more flavor dimensions. Just be sure to chop them to a similar size for even cooking. For another vegetable-forward dish, try our crispy roasted cauliflower.

Variations of Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup You Can Try

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup! It’s a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce along with the other seasonings. This adds a wonderful warmth to the soup.
Smoky Flavor: Swap some of the cheddar cheese for smoked gouda or add a teaspoon of smoked paprika. This gives your broccoli and potato cheese soup a delightful smoky depth.
Creamier Texture: If you’re aiming for an even richer, more decadent soup, use heavy cream instead of milk. You can also add a tablespoon of cream cheese along with the cheddar for ultimate creaminess.
Vegan Option: To make this a delicious vegan soup, use plant-based milk (like unsweetened cashew or oat milk), vegan butter, and your favorite vegan cheddar cheese shreds. Ensure your broth is also vegetable-based.