Description
A creamy and comforting Broccoli and Potato Soup made with tender potatoes, fresh broccoli florets, and a rich cheesy base. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, enhanced with savory bacon pieces and a touch of garlic and onion for flavor depth.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 40g / 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup flour
- 2 cups milk (any fat %)
- 2 cups chicken broth/stock (low sodium)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 800 g / 1.6 lb potato, peeled and cut into 1.25 / 1/2″ cubes
- 5 cups broccoli, small florets (1 large head, ~300g/10oz)
- 1+ cups grated cheese (cheddar or tasty, or other of choice)
Optional Garnishes
- Cooked bacon pieces (highly recommended)
- Shallots/scallions, finely sliced
- Additional grated cheese
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Cook Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Add Flour to Form a Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and mix it thoroughly into the onion and garlic mixture. Cook this mixture for 30 seconds to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Incorporate Milk Gradually: While continuously stirring, slowly pour the milk into the pot. Stir the mixture as it thickens into a smooth, thick paste. Use a whisk if needed to break up any lumps to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Add Broth, Water, and Seasoning: Pour in the chicken stock and water. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir everything to combine well, then add the cubed potatoes into the pot.
- Simmer Potatoes: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Adjust the heat to maintain a gentle simmer without boiling. Cook uncovered for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the base from sticking, until the potatoes are nearly cooked through.
- Add Broccoli and Finish Cooking: Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Stir and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the broccoli reaches your desired tenderness. Remove the pot from the heat.
- Stir in Cheese for Creaminess: Mix in about 1 cup of grated cheese until melted and the soup thickens nicely. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
- Serve with Optional Garnishes: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with cooked bacon pieces, finely sliced shallots or scallions, and extra grated cheese as desired.
Notes
- Use any type of milk depending on your dietary preference or fat content desired.
- Low sodium broth is recommended to control the saltiness in the soup.
- Cheddar cheese works well for a classic flavor, but any sharp cheese can be used.
- Bacon adds a smoky richness that complements the creamy soup.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock and omit bacon.
- Ensure to stir regularly while simmering to prevent the soup from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: broccoli potato soup, creamy broccoli soup, cheesy potato soup, easy soup recipe, stovetop soup, comforting soup, healthy vegetable soup
