LOADED BROCCOLI, CHEESE, & POTATO SOUP

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When it comes to comforting soups, this Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup stands out as a hearty favorite. With its rich, creamy texture and full flavor, it’s more akin to a chowder than a traditional soup. Perfect for a cozy meal, this recipe combines tender potatoes, crisp broccoli, and melty cheddar cheese to create a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Ingredients:

To create this delicious loaded soup, you will need:

  • 2 – 14.5 oz. cans chicken broth
  • 2-3 large carrots, peeled and diced
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed into small pieces
  • 1 tsp. onion powder
  • 2 small heads broccoli, washed and diced small
  • 3 Tbsp. butter
  • ⅓ cup flour
  • 3½ – 4 cups milk
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • ½ tsp. garlic pepper
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped

Directions:

  1. Combine Broth and Vegetables: In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, diced carrots, cubed potatoes, and onion powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  2. Add Broccoli: Add the diced broccoli to the pot, cover again, and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. This will allow the broccoli to become tender and infuse the soup with its flavor.
  3. Prepare Cheese Sauce: While the vegetables are simmering, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute, or until it turns a golden brown color. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
  4. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce until it is fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and garlic pepper.
  5. Combine and Adjust Consistency: Pour the cheese sauce into the large pot with the vegetables. Stir until everything is well combined. If you prefer a thinner soup, add more milk to reach your desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Add Bacon and Serve: Top the soup with chopped bacon pieces for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. Serve the soup warm and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips :

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve Hot: This soup is best enjoyed hot. Reheat thoroughly before serving to maintain its creamy texture and full flavor. If you’ve chilled it, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
  2. Garnish for Extra Flavor: Enhance the presentation and flavor of your soup with garnishes. Top each serving with extra chopped bacon, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and a dash of fresh parsley or chives. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of cream can also add a nice touch.
  3. Accompaniments: Pair your soup with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the soup.
  4. Portion Control: Use hearty soup bowls to accommodate the thick, chowder-like consistency. For a lighter meal, you can serve the soup in smaller bowls or cups, especially if it’s part of a larger meal or buffet.
  5. Add Toppings Individually: If serving a group, allow guests to add their own toppings, such as extra cheese, bacon bits, or fresh herbs. This ensures everyone gets their preferred garnishes.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before sealing the container to prevent condensation.
  2. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Note that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the broccoli and potatoes.
  3. Reheating: When reheating, do so gently to avoid curdling the cheese. Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup has thickened too much after freezing, you can add a bit of milk or chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.
  4. Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, avoid cooking the soup for too long as it may become overly thick or lose its creamy texture. Heat just until warmed through.
  5. Check for Freshness: Before consuming stored soup, always check for any signs of spoilage, such as off smells or discoloration. If in doubt, discard the soup to ensure food safety.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup at its best, whether you’re savoring it fresh or storing it for later.

Variations :

1. Vegetarian Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup

For a vegetarian-friendly version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative. Follow the recipe as usual, ensuring all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.

2. Gluten-Free Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup

To make this soup gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Ensure that the chicken broth and any other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

3. Spicy Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup

Add a spicy kick to your soup by incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for extra heat. Adjust the level of spiciness according to your preference.

4. Creamy Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup

For a twist on the classic recipe, blend part of the soup to make it smoother and creamier. Add 1 cup of steamed cauliflower, then use an immersion blender to blend half of the soup until smooth. This adds extra creaminess and a subtle flavor.

5. Chicken Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup

Add shredded cooked chicken to the soup for extra protein and a heartier meal. Use about 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken and stir it in with the cheese sauce. This variation makes the soup more filling and adds additional flavor.

6. Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Sweet Potato Soup

Substitute some or all of the regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, nutrient-rich twist. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then follow the recipe as usual. The sweet potatoes add a different flavor profile and extra vitamins.

7. Southwestern Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup

Introduce Southwestern flavors by adding 1 cup of frozen corn and 1 cup of black beans to the soup. Incorporate 1 teaspoon of ground cumin and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika into the cheese sauce for added depth and a touch of smokiness.

8. Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup with Caramelized Onions

Enhance the soup with the rich, sweet flavor of caramelized onions. Cook 2 large onions sliced thinly in a skillet with a bit of butter or oil over medium heat until golden brown and caramelized. Stir them into the soup just before serving.

FAQs :

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh. Simply add it to the pot in the last 10 minutes of cooking, as frozen broccoli cooks faster than fresh. Be sure to thaw and drain it if it’s pre-cooked or contains excess moisture.

2. How can I make this soup dairy-free? To make a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free milk alternative such as almond milk or oat milk and substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast. For the butter, use a plant-based margarine or oil.

3. Can I use russet potatoes instead of the recommended potatoes? Yes, russet potatoes can be used in place of other potatoes. They may break down more during cooking, giving the soup a thicker consistency. Just be sure to cut them into small, even pieces for uniform cooking.

4. How do I make this soup spicier? To add more spice, increase the amount of garlic pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also mix in some hot sauce or chopped fresh jalapeños to suit your taste.

5. Can I make this soup in advance? Yes, you can prepare the soup a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.

6. Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

This Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food, combining creamy cheese, tender vegetables, and crispy bacon for a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or simply craving a rich and flavorful soup, this recipe delivers a deliciously thick and hearty option that’s sure to please. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful soup!