Cheesy Broccoli-Potato Soup
A comforting, cheesy broccoli and chicken soup with creamy mashed potatoes and Swiss cheese, perfect for a hearty meal. Its rich flavors and smooth texture make it ideal for chilly days or when craving something warm and satisfying. Suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat chicken broth, chopped onion, and frozen chopped broccoli in a 3-quart saucepan until boiling.
- Reduce heat to simmer and cover; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in instant mashed potatoes until well blended.
- Add cooked chicken, shredded Swiss cheese, milk, and salt to the mixture.
- Heat over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until hot and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider sautéing the chopped onion in butter before adding it to the broth. You can substitute the Swiss cheese with cheddar for a sharper taste. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works great. For a heartier version, add diced carrots or celery along with the broccoli. This soup is a fantastic way to use leftover chicken from recipes like Beer Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy broccoli-potato soup with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup for a comforting soup night. For a garnish, sprinkle some extra shredded cheese or croutons on top before serving. This soup also makes a delightful starter for a larger meal or a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens, you can add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent uneven heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Broccoli-Potato Soup contains roughly 712 calories, with 30g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (87% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 922mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just chop it into small pieces and steam it until tender before adding it to the soup. This will ensure it cooks properly and retains its vibrant color. Fresh broccoli may require a little longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the cooked chicken. You can enhance the flavor by adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, and using a plant-based cheese alternative to maintain the cheesy flavor.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If the soup turns out too thick for your liking, simply add more milk or chicken broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well after each addition to ensure it's well incorporated. Remember that the soup may thicken as it cools, so it's best to adjust before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).