Creamy broccoli cheese potato has become my go-to comfort food, especially on chilly evenings. I remember the first time I tried a version of this dish; it was a humble yet incredibly satisfying bake that warmed me from the inside out. The combination of tender potatoes, vibrant broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese is simply divine. This recipe takes that comforting idea and transforms it into a velvety smooth soup, perfect for dipping crusty bread. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel instantly cozy and happy. Get ready to fall in love with this delicious creamy broccoli potato bake – let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup

This soup is pure comfort in a bowl, and I know you’ll adore it for so many reasons:

It’s incredibly rich and velvety, thanks to the blend of potatoes, cream, and cheese.
It’s so easy to make, especially using the slow cooker method – minimal effort, maximum flavor!
The combination of tender potatoes and vibrant broccoli is a classic for a reason.
This recipe is a fantastic way to get your veggies in, making it a wholesome choice.
It’s a fantastic alternative to a traditional broccoli cheese potato casserole, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying experience.
The cheesy goodness makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
It’s a hearty meal that feels special enough for company but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Enjoying this creamy broccoli potato bake is like getting a warm hug on a cold day.

Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to making a truly delicious creamy broccoli potato bake. Many of these are pantry staples, but the fresh ingredients really make this soup shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 tbsp butter – This is the base for sautéing our aromatics and adds a lovely richness.
2 onions, diced – Yellow or white onions work best for a sweet, savory foundation.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that pungent, delicious depth of flavor.
6-8 cups chopped potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet) – These starchy potatoes break down beautifully to create that signature creamy texture. This is a key component for any good broccoli potato cheese bake ingredients list.
32 oz chicken broth (or vegetable broth) – Provides the liquid base and savory notes.
1 tsp salt – To enhance all the flavors.
1 tsp black pepper – For a touch of warmth.
1 tsp paprika – Adds a subtle smoky sweetness and beautiful color.
1 tsp ground mustard – A secret weapon that amplifies the cheesy flavor without tasting overtly mustardy.
2 cups shredded carrots – They add a hint of sweetness and a gorgeous orange hue to the soup.
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half) – This is what makes it truly decadent and velvety.
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar melts wonderfully and provides that classic cheesy flavor we all crave.
2 cups steamed broccoli florets – Added at the end to keep their vibrant color and a slight bite.
Optional Toppings: Crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheese, chopped chives or parsley – For serving!

How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup

Follow these simple steps to create a soul-warming bowl of soup. Learning how to make creamy broccoli potato is easier than you think, and the slow cooker does most of the work for you!

Step 1: Start by melting the 4 tbsp butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the 2 diced onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. You’ll love the sweet aroma filling your kitchen! Then, toss in the 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for just another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 2: Now, add the 6-8 cups chopped potatoes to the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, just to lightly coat the potatoes.
Step 3: Carefully transfer this delicious mixture to your slow cooker insert. Add the 2 cups shredded carrots, 32 oz chicken broth, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp paprika, and 1 tsp ground mustard. Give it all a good stir to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. The goal is for the potatoes and carrots to become completely fork-tender. This slow cooking process helps meld all the flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Once the vegetables are tender, it’s time to get that signature creamy texture. You can use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to blend the soup until it’s wonderfully smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, making sure to leave the lid vent open and cover it with a towel to allow steam to escape. Blend until smooth.
Step 6: Return the blended soup to the slow cooker if you used a regular blender. Stir in the 1 cup heavy cream and the 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring gently until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and luscious.
Step 7: Gently fold in the 2 cups steamed broccoli florets. You want to warm them through without overcooking them, so they stay bright green and have a slight crunch.
Step 8: Taste the soup and adjust seasonings if needed. Ladle the hot, creamy broccoli cheese potato soup into bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings like crumbled bacon, extra cheese, or fresh chives. Serving this amazing dish with crusty bread is how to cook creamy broccoli potato for maximum enjoyment!

Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato: 1 Amazing Recipe - Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that elevate this creamy broccoli potato bake from good to absolutely unforgettable. Here are my top tips to ensure your soup is a smashing success:

Always shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your soup a bit grainy instead of silky smooth.
Don’t overcook the broccoli. Steaming it separately and adding it at the very end keeps its bright green color and a pleasant, slight crunch.
Adjust the consistency to your liking. If you prefer a thicker soup, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the soup before adding the cheese.
Taste and season generously at the end. Broth and cheese can vary in saltiness, so a final taste test is crucial for perfect flavor.

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup?

The magic lies in using starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russets, which break down to create a naturally creamy base. Blending them thoroughly and then adding good quality sharp cheddar cheese without over-boiling ensures a luxuriously smooth and cheesy texture for your creamy baked potato broccoli cheese creation.

Can I make Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This creamy broccoli potato bake is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare the soup completely, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days before you plan to serve it.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup?

A common pitfall is using pre-shredded cheese, which can lead to a grainy texture. Another mistake is overcooking the broccoli, which turns it mushy and dull. Lastly, don’t boil the soup after adding the cheese and cream, as this can cause them to separate.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup

This rich and comforting soup is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple additions. Serving it warm, perhaps with some crusty bread for dipping, is always a winner. It’s one of those wonderful creamy broccoli potato casserole ideas that feels both rustic and elegant.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. A light, crisp salad cuts through the richness of the soup perfectly. Another fantastic pairing is grilled cheese sandwiches – imagine dipping that gooey cheese sandwich into this velvety soup! It’s a classic combination for a reason, offering ultimate comfort food satisfaction.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup

This hearty and satisfying soup offers a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect in each serving of this delicious creamy broccoli potato bake:

Calories: 370 cal
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g (estimated)
Protein: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6 g (estimated)
Sodium: 850 mg (estimated)

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of broth and cheese, and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup

One of the best things about this easy creamy broccoli potato recipe is how well it stores and reheats! It makes fantastic leftovers, meaning you can enjoy that comforting flavor again later in the week. Once your delicious creamy broccoli cheese potato soup has finished cooking and you’ve enjoyed it, let it cool completely on the counter for about an hour. This is crucial for food safety and prevents condensation inside your storage containers.

Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, it will keep well for 3-4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Avoid boiling the soup after it’s been blended and had cream and cheese added, as this can cause separation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup

What exactly is Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato soup?

This dish is a rich, velvety, and incredibly comforting soup made primarily from blended potatoes and broccoli, brought together with savory broth and plenty of sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly day. Think of it as a deconstructed, sippable version of a classic broccoli cheese potato casserole, packed with flavor and goodness.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you absolutely can! If you’re using frozen broccoli for your creamy broccoli potato bake, make sure to steam it until tender before adding it to the soup in the final step. Don’t add it frozen, as it won’t heat through properly and could make the soup watery. This is a great shortcut for an easy creamy broccoli potato recipe.

What kind of potatoes are best for this soup?

For the creamiest texture in your creamy broccoli cheese potato soup, I highly recommend using starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russets. These varieties break down beautifully when cooked and blended, creating that signature smooth, velvety consistency. Waxy potatoes, like red potatoes, tend to hold their shape more and might result in a less creamy soup.

How can I make this soup dairy-free or vegan?

To make this creamy broccoli potato bake dairy-free or vegan, simply swap out the dairy ingredients. Use a good quality vegetable broth, substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, and replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer. For the cheese, opt for your favorite vegan cheddar shreds. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious!

Variations of Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup You Can Try

This creamy broccoli cheese potato soup is wonderfully adaptable! I love finding new ways to enjoy this comforting dish, and you can easily tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch:

Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) along with the onions and garlic. This creates a deliciously zesty version of the creamy broccoli potato bake with cheese.
Smoky Flavor: Swap out the paprika for smoked paprika, and consider using a smoked cheddar cheese. You could even add a dash of liquid smoke for an intensely smoky profile that complements the broccoli and potato beautifully.
Heartier Meal: Make it a complete meal by adding cooked chicken, ham, or even some crispy bacon bits directly into the soup before serving. This transforms it into a robust, filling dish that’s perfect for a cold evening.
Lighter Version: If you want a slightly lighter take, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for a reduced-fat cheddar cheese. You can also use vegetable broth and ensure your steamed broccoli is the star.