Loaded Broccoli-Cheese Potato Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy richness of a potato chowder with the savory goodness of broccoli and cheese. This hearty soup is packed with tender chunks of potato, fresh broccoli florets, and sharp cheddar cheese, all brought together in a velvety, flavorful broth. It’s like a loaded baked potato in soup form, complete with crispy bacon and a dollop of sour cream on top. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a cozy meal to warm you up, this chowder is sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Chopped chives or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.
- Cook the Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion to the pot with the bacon drippings and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Potatoes and Broth:
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Cook the Broccoli:
- Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and melted.
- Combine and Serve:
- Stir the cheese sauce into the pot with the potatoes and broccoli, mixing well to combine.
- Season the chowder with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the chowder into bowls and top each serving with crispy bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped chives or green onions.
Enjoy your Loaded Broccoli-Cheese Potato Chowder, a warm and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time you crave comfort food!
