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Yes, you can put potatoes in broccoli cheddar soup, and they can actually make it heartier and more filling.
If you’ve been wondering whether potatoes belong in broccoli cheddar soup, the answer is a resounding yes.
Adding potatoes to broccoli cheddar soup is a common trick that thickens the soup naturally while adding a comforting, satisfying texture.
In this post, we’ll cover why you can put potatoes in broccoli cheddar soup, the best types of potatoes to use, and how to add them without ruining the creamy consistency.
Let’s get to it.
Why You Can Put Potatoes in Broccoli Cheddar Soup
You can put potatoes in broccoli cheddar soup, and here’s why it works so well:
1. Potatoes Are a Classic Soup Ingredient
Potatoes are one of the most versatile vegetables for soups, and they pair beautifully with broccoli and cheddar.
They’re mild in flavor, so they won’t overpower the cheesy, savory taste of the soup.
Instead, they blend right in while adding body and richness.
That’s why so many restaurant-style broccoli cheddar soups already include potatoes in their recipes.
2. They Thicken the Soup Naturally
One of the biggest reasons to put potatoes in broccoli cheddar soup is that they act as a natural thickener.
When potatoes cook down, their starches break down and release into the liquid.
If you mash or blend some of the potatoes, they create a velvety texture without the need for heavy cream or extra flour.
So putting potatoes in broccoli cheddar soup can actually help you achieve that thick, creamy consistency everyone loves.
3. They Make the Soup More Filling
Potatoes add substance to broccoli cheddar soup, turning it from a light starter into a hearty meal.
Because potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates, they keep you full longer.
This is especially helpful if you’re serving broccoli cheddar soup as a main course rather than an appetizer.
A few diced potatoes can make all the difference between a side dish and a satisfying dinner.
4. They’re Budget-Friendly and Accessible
Potatoes are inexpensive and easy to find, which makes them a great addition to broccoli cheddar soup.
You probably already have some in your pantry, so adding them doesn’t require a special trip to the store.
And because they stretch the soup further, you can feed more people without spending more money.
Best Potatoes to Use in Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Not all potatoes work the same way in broccoli cheddar soup, so here’s what to keep in mind:
1. Russet Potatoes for Thickness
Russet potatoes are starchy and break down easily, making them ideal if you want your broccoli cheddar soup thick and creamy.
They almost melt into the soup, which helps create that smooth texture.
Just be careful not to overcook them or they’ll turn gluey.
2. Yukon Gold Potatoes for Creaminess
Yukon Golds are medium-starch potatoes with a buttery flavor that complements cheddar perfectly.
They hold their shape a bit better than russets, so you get nice chunks of potato in every spoonful.
If you want a balance between texture and creaminess, Yukon Golds are a great choice for broccoli cheddar soup.
3. Red Potatoes for a Firmer Bite
Red potatoes are waxy and low in starch, so they stay firm when cooked.
If you prefer distinct potato pieces in your broccoli cheddar soup rather than a blended texture, red potatoes work beautifully.
They also have thin skins, so you don’t even need to peel them.
How to Add Potatoes to Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Adding potatoes to broccoli cheddar soup is easy, but a few simple steps make a big difference:
1. Dice Them Evenly
Cut your potatoes into small, uniform cubes so they cook at the same rate as the broccoli.
Aim for half-inch pieces, which will soften in about 15 to 20 minutes of simmering.
Uneven pieces mean some will turn mushy while others stay hard.
2. Add Them Early in the Cooking Process
Since potatoes take longer to cook than broccoli, add them to the soup pot before the broccoli.
Let them simmer in the broth for about 10 minutes first, then add your broccoli florets.
This way, everything finishes cooking at the same time.
3. Mash a Few for Creaminess
Once the potatoes are tender, scoop out a few pieces and mash them against the side of the pot.
Stir them back in and you’ll notice the soup instantly becomes thicker and creamier.
This is a simple trick that adds richness without extra cream or butter.
4. Adjust Your Liquid and Cheese
Potatoes absorb liquid as they cook, so you may need to add a splash more broth.
And since potatoes mellow out the flavor slightly, taste before serving and adjust your cheddar and seasonings as needed.
A little extra sharp cheddar usually does the trick.
So, Can You Put Potatoes in Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
You can put potatoes in broccoli cheddar soup, and they make it thicker, heartier, and more satisfying.
Potatoes are a classic soup ingredient that thickens the soup naturally, keeps you full longer, and won’t overpower the cheesy flavor you love.
Just pick the right potato for the texture you want, dice them evenly, and add them early so everything cooks perfectly.
Hope this post has helped you see why you can put potatoes in broccoli cheddar soup and how to do it without ruining that creamy consistency.