Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch cubes
- 16 ounces broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Liquids & Dairy
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1–2 tablespoons butter
Thickener & Spices
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Melt one to two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until they begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add diced carrots, salt, and pepper, continuing to cook for another 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Simmer Potatoes: Add chopped potatoes and chicken stock to the skillet. Cover and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften.
- Add Broccoli: Incorporate the broccoli florets into the simmering soup. Continue to simmer for about another 10 minutes until both the broccoli and potatoes become tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Thicken Soup: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with milk until smooth to avoid lumps. Slowly pour this mixture into the hot soup while stirring continuously to prevent clumping and help the soup thicken evenly.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a rich and creamy texture throughout the soup.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- Broth: You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
- Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Consistency: If the soup becomes too thick, add more milk or broth to thin it. If it is too thin, simmer longer to allow it to thicken.
- Storage: Let leftover soup cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
