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There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort you on a chilly day, and our Loaded Broccoli Potato Soup is the perfect recipe to do just that. This creamy, cheesy soup is packed with hearty ingredients like potatoes, broccoli, and carrots, making it a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Not only is it delicious, but it's also easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner option or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this soup has got you covered.
Ingredients
- Chicken Broth: 2 cans (14.5 oz each) for a rich soup base.
- Carrots: 2-3 large, peeled and diced, adding sweetness and color.
- Potatoes: 4 medium, peeled and cubed, for heartiness.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon for savory flavor.
- Broccoli: 2 small heads, diced small, providing nutrition and texture.
- Butter: 3 tablespoons to create a rich base.
- Flour: ⅓ cup for thickening.
- Milk: 3½ to 4 cups for creaminess, whole milk recommended.
- Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups shredded for a classic cheesy flavor.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon to enhance all the flavors.
- Garlic Pepper: ½ teaspoon for a subtle kick.
- Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and chopped, for a crispy topping.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Dice carrots and potatoes evenly, and finely chop broccoli. Prep all vegetables beforehand for smooth cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Base Ingredients
In a large pot, combine chicken broth, carrots, potatoes, and onion powder. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer covered for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Broccoli
Add diced broccoli to the pot. Cover and simmer for another 10 minutes until tender.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1 minute.
Step 5: Incorporate the Milk
Slowly whisk in milk, cooking until thickened. Keep stirring to prevent scorching.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Stir shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce until melted. Season with salt and garlic pepper.
Step 7: Combine and Adjust
Pour cheese sauce into the pot of vegetables. Stir well to combine. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed, and season to taste.
Step 8: Serve
Top each bowl of soup with chopped bacon for added flavor and crunch. Serve hot with crusty bread or salad on the side.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, garnished with bacon, extra cheddar cheese, sour cream, or chives. Pair with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Let soup cool before storing. Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Helpful Notes and Variations
Vegetarian Version
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Omit bacon or replace with a vegetarian alternative.
Vegan Adaptation
Swap butter, milk, and cheese with plant-based alternatives. Use vegetable broth and skip the bacon or add a vegan substitute.
Chef’s Tips
Add a splash of white wine to the cheese sauce for a gourmet touch. Roasting the broccoli beforehand enhances its flavor.
Variations
- Add diced celery or bell peppers for more vegetables.
- Top with croutons for extra crunch.
- Spice it up with red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.