Warm up with this hearty and comforting Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup. This creamy soup is packed with tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and plenty of cheesy goodness, topped with all your favorite loaded potato toppings.
📋 Ingredients:
- 🥓 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 🧅 1 medium onion, diced
- 🥕 2 medium carrots, diced
- 🌿 2 celery stalks, diced
- 🥔 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 🥦 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 🍲 4 cups chicken broth
- 🥛 2 cups milk
- 🧀 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 🌿 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 🥄 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 🧈 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 🌿 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 🧀 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- 🍶 Sour cream (optional, for garnish)
📝 Directions:
Cook the Bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Cook the Potatoes and Broccoli:
- Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets and continue to simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Make the Soup Creamy:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture is thickened and bubbly.
- Stir the milk mixture into the soup pot, combining well.
Add the Cheese:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
💡 Notes:
- For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot before adding the broccoli.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency before adding the cheese.
- This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad.