Creamy Cheddar & Broccoli Potato Delight
Warm up with this hearty and comforting Creamy Cheddar & Broccoli Potato Delight! This indulgent soup blends creamy cheddar cheese with tender potatoes and vibrant broccoli for a delicious dish that is perfect for chilly evenings. Inspired by a beloved recipe from Southern Living magazine, this savory soup is sure to please your family and friends. It’s not just easy to make, but it also makes for excellent leftovers, so you can enjoy this creamy goodness throughout the week!
12
Servings
295
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
4 tablespoons (melted)
onion
1 cup (chopped)
flour
1/2 cup (all-purpose)
chicken broth
4 cups (low-sodium)
milk
4 cups (whole or 2%)
frozen chopped broccoli
16 ounces (thawed)
potatoes
2 cups (peeled and diced)
cheddar cheese
1 cup (shredded)
Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon
salt
1 teaspoon (or to taste)
pepper
1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2
Add the chopped onion to the melted butter and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
3
Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
4
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5
Once the broth is slightly thickened, reduce the heat to low and carefully mix in the milk, followed by the thawed broccoli and diced potatoes.
6
Cover the saucepan and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and broccoli are fork-tender.
7
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
8
Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, adjusting seasoning to taste. Serve hot for a deliciously warming meal.
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
28g
Carbs
10g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Cheddar & Broccoli Potato Delight?
It is a hearty and comforting soup that blends creamy cheddar cheese with tender potatoes and vibrant broccoli, inspired by a Southern Living recipe.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 12 servings.
What is the calorie count for a single serving?
Each serving contains approximately 295 calories.
How long should I sauté the onions?
Sauté the chopped onion in melted butter for 4-5 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
What type of potatoes should I use?
The recipe calls for peeled and diced potatoes; Russet or Yukon Gold are typically best for this style of soup.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli, though you may need to simmer it slightly longer than the 16 ounces of thawed frozen broccoli specified.
What kind of cheese is recommended for this soup?
Shredded cheddar cheese is recommended for its excellent melting properties and sharp flavor.
Is this soup vegetarian?
The recipe includes chicken broth; to make it vegetarian, you should substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Can I use a lower fat milk?
Yes, you can use 2% milk, though whole milk will provide a richer and creamier consistency.
What is the purpose of the flour in the instructions?
The flour is stirred into the butter and onions to create a roux, which serves as the thickening agent for the soup.
How do I prevent lumps when adding the broth?
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and ensure you are stirring constantly to keep the mixture smooth.
How long does the soup need to simmer?
Simmer the mixture for about 15-20 minutes after adding the milk, broccoli, and potatoes.
How do I know when the soup is done?
The soup is ready when the potatoes and broccoli are fork-tender.
Why should I remove the pot from heat before adding the cheese?
Removing the pot from heat prevents the cheese from overheating, which can cause it to become grainy or oily rather than creamy.
What does Worcestershire sauce add to the recipe?
It provides a savory, umami depth that complements the cheddar cheese and potatoes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the roux.
How can I make the soup even creamier?
You can substitute a portion of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half for a more indulgent texture.
What are the main macronutrients per serving?
Each serving contains 15g of fat, 28g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein.
How should I store leftover soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
While you can freeze it, dairy-based soups and potatoes may change texture slightly upon thawing; reheat slowly and stir well.
What is the best way to reheat this soup?
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy consistency.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, diced ham or cooked bacon bits would make excellent additions to this potato and broccoli base.
What should I serve with this soup?
It pairs perfectly with crusty bread, oyster crackers, or a light green side salad.
How do I fix a soup that is too thin?
You can simmer it longer to reduce the liquid, or mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot to naturally thicken the base.
What if the soup is too thick?
Simply stir in a little extra milk or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, the mild, cheesy flavor and soft vegetables make it a very kid-friendly meal.
What tools do I need for this recipe?
You will need a large saucepan, a whisk, and a knife for chopping the vegetables.
Where did this recipe originate?
This recipe was inspired by a popular dish featured in Southern Living magazine.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely; diced carrots or celery sautéed with the onions would work very well in this recipe.
How much salt and pepper should I add?
The recipe suggests 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, but you should adjust these to your personal taste at the end.