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Whip up this simple Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup when you're craving something hot and substantial. It's total comfort food but packs healthy ingredients too. It comes together fast and everyone goes crazy for it - even the veggie-hating kids will ask for seconds.
Benefits Of This Hearty Soup
Mix it up however you want - toss in other vegetables or pile on more cheese. Many people add crispy bacon bits. There's plenty for the entire family. Works in any season but hits the spot during chilly weather. Simple enough for those hectic weeknights.
Ingredients List
- Butter: 2 spoons
- Onion: 1 large one, diced
- Carrots: 2 diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Chicken Stock: 4 cups
- Cornstarch: 2 spoons
- Milk: 2 cups
- Potatoes: 3 large ones
- Broccoli: 2 cups chopped
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups grated
- Salt and Pepper: As needed
Cooking Instructions
- Start cooking:
- Heat butter in large pot. Keep flame at medium.
- Cook veggies first:
- Add onions, cook until transparent. Toss in carrots, salt, pepper. Continue cooking 4 minutes.
- Add garlic:
- Mix in garlic. Stir briefly - around 30 seconds.
- Put in potatoes:
- Toss in chopped potatoes and add broth. Cover pot.
- Let it bubble:
- Simmer 10 minutes. Toss in broccoli. Cook another 10 until potatoes feel tender.
- Make it thick:
- Blend cornstarch with milk in separate container. Pour into soup gradually while mixing.
- Add cheese:
- Mix in cheese. Stir until completely melted.
- Check taste:
- Give it a taste - need more salt? Pepper? Adjust now.
- Serve it up:
- Ladle into bowls while steaming. Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired.
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Delicious Qualities
Just right when you need something warm and filling. The cheese gives richness, veggies add nutrition. Potatoes create that thick, smooth texture. Every bite contains all the goodness mixed together.
Customization Options
Can't stand broccoli? Switch to cauliflower. Want a heartier texture? Throw in more potatoes. Love heat? Add some red pepper flakes. Some folks sprinkle bacon bits. Others pile on cheese. Adjust it to your family's tastes.
Shopping Smart
Go for gold or white potatoes - they hold shape better. Shred cheese yourself - it melts way better than pre-packaged. Fresh broccoli works best but frozen does the job too. Quality broth improves the whole soup. Real butter tastes nicer than substitutes.
General Advice
Cut all vegetables similar sizes for even cooking. This soup satisfies year-round. Get everything prepared before you start - cooking goes smoother. Prep extra vegetables, save them frozen for later. Many people enjoy garlic toast alongside.
Storing Leftovers
Cool completely before storing away. Stays good 3 days in refrigerator. Need longer storage? Freeze up to 2 months. When reheating, go slow and stir frequently. Add a bit of milk if it's gotten too thick. Makes a perfect next-day lunch option.
Troubleshooting Help
Soup too runny? Simmer longer without the lid. Too thick? Pour in more milk. Cheese clumping? Lower your heat, stir constantly. Lacking flavor? Toss in some salt or extra cheese. Want smoother texture? Run through blender.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can veggie broth replace chicken stock?
Sure! Swap it in for the same amount to keep it vegetarian. You might notice a slight change in flavor, so tweak your seasoning a little to your liking.
- → Is this naturally gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free! Just double-check that the cornstarch, cheese, and broth you’re using are labeled gluten-free.
- → What if I don’t have cheddar?
No worries! Try other cheeses like Gruyere, sharp provolone, or even a combo. Just steer clear of pre-shredded ones to get that smooth, creamy result.
- → Can I use frozen broccoli here?
Yup! You can throw frozen broccoli straight into the soup. It’ll soften up more than fresh, but it still works great in terms of flavor.
- → How long will it keep?
Pop this soup in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it fully cool before storing it in something airtight. Warm it gently when you’re ready to eat, and add a splash of milk if it’s gotten a bit thick.
Conclusion
If you’re into loaded potato casseroles or veggie-packed cheesy dishes, you’ll enjoy this. Familiar flavors, just in soup form.