This Potato Soup is so full of flavor and so thick & delicious it seems more like a chowder than a wonderful soup! The combination of tender potatoes, vibrant broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese creates a heartwarming dish that is perfect for any season. Enjoy it as a cozy weeknight dinner or serve it at a gathering for a delightful starter or side dish.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup is not only comfort food at its best, but it is also simple to prepare. It’s a one-pot meal that allows for easy cleanup while delivering a depth of flavor that will impress family and friends alike. With the addition of crispy bacon, every bowl is elevated to new heights of deliciousness. Whether you’re a busy parent or a cooking novice, this recipe is straightforward and yields a satisfying, hearty meal that everyone will cherish.
Introduction
Nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of homemade soup, especially when it’s packed with goodies like broccoli, potatoes, and cheese. This Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup is a perfect blend of comfort and flavor, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Each spoonful is filled with creamy cheese, tender veggies, and crispy bits of bacon, creating a delightful symphony of textures and tastes. As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, there’s nothing like a rich and hearty soup to chase away the chill. Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 – 14.5 oz cans chicken broth
- 2-3 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed into small pieces
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 small heads broccoli (washed and diced small)
- 3 Tbsp butter
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3½ – 4 cups milk
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp garlic pepper
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
Preparation:
Step 1:
In a large pot, combine the chicken broth with the diced carrots, cubed potatoes, and onion powder.
Step 2:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat, allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes. This will help the vegetables cook through and develop their flavors.
Step 3:
After simmering for 10 minutes, add the diced broccoli to the pot. Cover again and simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until all vegetables are tender.
Step 4:
While the vegetables are simmering, melt the butter in a separate large saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, cooking it for another minute until it turns a light golden brown.
Step 5:
Slowly whisk in the milk, continuing to cook for about 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Once thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until completely melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt and garlic pepper.
Step 6:
Pour the cheese sauce into the large pot with the vegetables and stir everything together until well combined. If you desire a thinner consistency for your soup, add more milk at this stage. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Cooking Note:
Serve hot, garnishing with crispy chopped bacon. This soup tastes amazing on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Suggestions for Presentation:
To enhance the presentation of your Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup, serve it in warm bowls topped with extra shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives, or a dollop of sour cream. A drizzle of olive oil or a few slices of toasted baguette on the side can also make for a beautiful arrangement.
Tips:
- For a vegetarian version, feel free to replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked or frozen broccoli, adding it in the last few minutes of cooking.
- To make this dish even more filling, consider adding some cooked chicken or other vegetables like corn or bell peppers.
Time Needed:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 563 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 780mg
Conclusion
This Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup is a delightful dish that encapsulates all the comforting flavors of a warm meal in one bowl. Its rich texture and hearty ingredients make it a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re making it for a chilly nighttime dinner or celebrating with loved ones, this soup is sure to bring smiles and satisfied bellies. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Questions & Answers:
- Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup ahead and reheat it on the stovetop. If it thickens too much in the fridge, simply stir in a bit more milk when reheating. - What if I don’t have cheddar cheese?
You can substitute with any melty cheese you have on hand, such as Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a cheese blend. - Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, this soup can be frozen, though the texture might change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, cool it completely first, then store in an airtight container. - Is this soup gluten-free?
This recipe contains flour, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour substitute. - How can I make this soup spicier?
If you enjoy the heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the soup while cooking for a spicy kick!