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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creamy broccoli cheddar soup recipe in a close up Pinterest style photo

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A rich and velvety soup that uses a blended russet potato for natural creaminess instead of heavy cream. This comforting, family-friendly recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients for a nourishing and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large russet potato (about 10 oz), peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 large head of broccoli (about 1.5 lbs), florets chopped, stems peeled and diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and carrot. Cook for 7-8 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the potato chunks and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the potato is fork-tender.
  3. Add the chopped broccoli, thyme, smoked paprika, and mustard powder. Stir and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender.
  4. Use an immersion blender to blend about half to two-thirds of the soup directly in the pot, leaving some texture. (Alternatively, carefully blend a portion in a standard blender and return it to the pot.)
  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the milk or half-and-half. Gradually add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted after each addition.
  6. Season generously with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.

Notes

For a smooth melt, always grate cheese from a block. Do not use pre-shredded cheese. Add cheese only on low heat to prevent it from breaking. The soup thickens upon standing; thin with a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

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