Creamy Broccoli Potato Cheddar Soup (Printer-Friendly Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 - 1 small onion (chopped)
03 - 2 cloves garlic (minced)
04 - 3 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
05 - 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
06 - 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
07 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
08 - 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
10 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
12 - Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

# Let's Cook!:

01 - In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened
02 - Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant
03 - Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender
04 - While the potatoes are cooking, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and set aside
05 - Once the potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. (Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches.)
06 - Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy
07 - Add the blanched broccoli and stir to combine. Simmer for 3-5 minutes to heat everything through
08 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
09 - Serve the soup warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley

# Cook's Notes:

01 - For extra creaminess, add more heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream when serving
02 - You can substitute broccoli with cauliflower for a different twist
03 - To make the soup gluten-free, ensure the broth you use is gluten-free