Soup season is upon us, and a cup of hot Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect for warming up on chilly winter nights. This nutrient-packed soup brings to mind the warm bowls of grandma’s cooking while updating the recipe for today. Let’s get into the recipe and some helpful tips to become a better soup maker!
Health Benefits
This Broccoli Potato Soup is not only tasty but also packed with iron, calcium, vitamins A and C. You can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Why Homemade?
Homemade soup lets you control the ingredients, avoiding the excess salt and preservatives often found in store-bought options. This nutritious soup is easy to freeze for later, making it a handy solution for busy days.
Flavorful Southern Twist
Adding cheese and a bit of bacon elevates this soup, creating a delicious twist on classic comfort food.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 2-3 large carrots, chopped
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets, coarsely chopped
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3.5 cups milk (plus more as needed)
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- ½ tsp garlic pepper
- 6 slices cooked and diced bacon
Instructions
- Cook the Vegetables: In a large saucepan, combine potatoes, carrots, chicken broth, and onion powder. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Then reduce to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes, until veggies are tender.
- Add Broccoli: Stir in the chopped broccoli and cover. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate pan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Gradually whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute until golden brown.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk. Increase the heat to medium and whisk constantly until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Incorporate Cheese: Add shredded cheddar cheese, garlic pepper, and salt to the cheese sauce, mixing until melted and smooth.
- Combine and Serve: Stir the cheese sauce into the vegetable mixture. Adjust the soup’s consistency with more milk if desired. Garnish with chopped bacon and additional cheese if you like.
Tips for Success
- Customize the Creaminess: For a creamier texture, replace some milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Add Flavor: Consider incorporating herbs or spices for added depth.
- Storage: Allow to cool before storing in an airtight container. It lasts in the fridge for about a week and can be frozen for up to three months.
This Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect for cozy nights, offering a comforting taste reminiscent of grandma’s cooking. Enjoy cooking!
