Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat the Oil
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat.
2. Add Onion and Garlic
   Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

1. Add Broccoli and Potatoes
   Stir in the broccoli florets and diced potatoes. Mix well to combine with the onion and garlic.
2. Pour in Broth
   Add the vegetable (or chicken) broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Cook Until Tender
   Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli and potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup (Optional)

1. Blend for Creaminess
   If you prefer a creamy soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer it to a blender in batches. Blend until you achieve your desired consistency. If you want to keep some chunks for texture, blend only half of the soup.
2. Return to the Pot
   If using a blender, return the blended soup to the pot after blending.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Milk

1. Stir in Milk
   Slowly add the milk (or cream) to the soup, stirring constantly to combine.
2. Add Cheese
   Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts and the soup is creamy and smooth. Adjust the heat to low to prevent the cheese from burning.

Step 5: Season to Taste

1. Season the Soup
   Taste the soup and add salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to your liking. Stir well to combine.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle into Bowls
   Serve the hot soup in bowls, garnished with chopped green onions or fresh parsley if desired.
2. Enjoy
   Pair the soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Tips for the Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda or pepper jack, for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it Heartier: Add cooked bacon or diced ham for extra protein and flavor.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Conclusion

This Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup is a warm, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of broccoli, potatoes, and sharp cheddar creates a comforting flavor that your family will love. Whether served as a main course or a hearty appetizer, this soup is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your delicious creation!