Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Soup Base

01 - 2 (14.5-ounce) cans low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
02 - 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
03 - 2–3 large carrots, diced
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 2 small heads broccoli, finely chopped

→ Cheese Sauce

06 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
08 - 3½ cups milk, plus more if needed
09 - 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
10 - 1 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic pepper

→ For Topping

12 - 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
13 - Extra shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - In a large pot, add the broth, potatoes, carrots, and onion powder. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
02 - Add the chopped broccoli to the pot, cover again, and continue simmering for another 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
03 - In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until golden. Slowly whisk in milk, increase heat to medium, and cook for 5 minutes until thickened.
04 - Add cheddar cheese, salt, and garlic pepper to the thickened milk. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
05 - Pour the cheese sauce into the soup pot and stir to combine. Add more milk if needed to thin the soup. Adjust seasoning to taste.
06 - Ladle into bowls and top with crispy bacon and additional cheddar cheese if desired. Serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - Mash a few of the potatoes in the pot with a fork or immersion blender for a thicker, creamier texture.
02 - This soup stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days or in the freezer for up to a month.
03 - Reheat gently over low heat, stirring often to prevent curdling.