Loaded Broccoli Potato Soup is a warm, cheesy, and creamy comfort food that’s perfect for cold days. This soup combines the hearty flavors of potatoes, carrots, and broccoli, making it both satisfying and delicious. It’s enriched with a smooth roux and lots of melted cheddar cheese, giving it a rich and creamy texture. The recipe is simple to follow, taking less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal or a comforting dish to enjoy on a chilly evening.
INGREDIENTS- Chicken broth: 2 cans (14.5 oz each), for the base of the soup
- Carrots: 2-3 large, peeled and sliced, for added sweetness and color
- Potatoes: 4 medium, peeled and diced, for a hearty texture
- Onion powder: 1 tsp, for flavor
- Broccoli heads: 2 small, chopped, for a fresh, green addition
- Butter: 1/3 cup, for making the roux
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup, for thickening the soup
- Milk: 3 1/2 to 4 cups, to create a creamy base
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 4 cups, for cheesy goodness
- Salt: 1 tsp, to enhance the flavors
- Step 1:
- Heat chicken broth in a large pot over medium heat.
- Step 2:
- Add diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot; cook for about 10 minutes until slightly tender.
- Step 3:
- Add chopped broccoli to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Step 4:
- In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat, then stir in flour to create a roux. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Step 5:
- Slowly whisk milk into the butter-flour mixture until smooth and thickened.
- Step 6:
- Pour the milk mixture into the pot with the cooked vegetables and stir well to combine.
- Step 7:
- Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.
- Step 8:
- Season with salt, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream on top.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup before adding the cheese.
- Feel free to add cooked, crumbled bacon or a sprinkle of chives for extra flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Mark suggests using sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder, richer flavor.
This soup is the perfect combination of cheesy, creamy, and hearty flavors. It’s a comforting dish that’s both easy to make and satisfying to eat. With its rich texture and fresh ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for a warm and cozy meal on chilly days.
FAQsCan I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it directly to the pot in Step 3 and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, try using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a different flavor.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux and ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free.