1. Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets.
  2. Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even-sized cubes to ensure they cook evenly.
  3. Finely chop the onion and garlic. Grate the carrot if using.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes and Broccoli

  1. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to coat them in the butter and aromatics.
  2. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  4. Add the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

  1. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. If you prefer a smooth soup, blend completely.
  2. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, then return it to the pot.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Milk

  1. Reduce the heat to low to prevent curdling.
  2. Stir in the milk, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time. Stir constantly to melt the cheese evenly and avoid clumps.
  3. Add smoked paprika and a pinch of nutmeg, if desired, for a flavor boost.

Step 6: Adjust the Consistency

  1. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
  2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. Garnish with additional shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Pro Tips for Perfect Soup

  1. Choose the Right Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and adds a bold flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect the soup’s texture.
  2. Use Fresh Broccoli: While frozen broccoli works in a pinch, fresh broccoli provides the best texture and flavor.
  3. Blend Carefully: If you’re using a countertop blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to prevent hot splashes.
  4. Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Variations

  • Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or crumbled sausage for a heartier meal.
  • Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a kick.
  • Lighten It Up: Use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze in portions. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid separating.

Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup is a delicious, warming dish that’s perfect for cozy nights. With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!