Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of rich, velvety Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or looking for a hearty lunch, this classic soup has the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy cheddar cheese melds beautifully with the tender, slightly crisp broccoli, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome. And the best part? It’s easy to make! In just a few simple steps, you can have a bowl of this indulgent soup that’s sure to warm you from the inside out. Grab your spoon, and let’s dive into this delicious homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re still on the fence about making this soup, here are a few reasons why Broccoli Cheddar Soup will become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Comfort Food Classic: This soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering a warm hug in a bowl.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can make this soup in under an hour.
• Versatile: It’s perfect for any occasion—whether as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or as a starter to impress your guests.
• Cheesy Goodness: The rich cheddar cheese flavor is the star, bringing a creamy texture and mouthwatering depth.
• Healthy Veggies: Packed with broccoli, this soup is a sneaky way to get your greens while indulging in something comforting.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the smooth texture and cheesy flavor, making it a family favorite.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to your liking—add some spices, make it spicier, or go with a different cheese for a twist.
• Leftover Friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge and actually tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead option.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fiber: 3g, Fat: 15g, Carbohydrates: 20g, Protein: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

For the Soup:

• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer soup)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional for extra depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)

For the Cheddar Cheese:

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)

Ingredient Highlights

• Broccoli: A nutritious powerhouse, full of vitamins and minerals, while giving the soup that vibrant green color and satisfying crunch.
• Cheddar Cheese: A sharp cheddar gives the soup a deliciously tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the broccoli.
• Butter: Creates a rich, velvety base for the soup and adds to the creamy texture.
• Milk or Cream: Adds creaminess to the soup and helps achieve that smooth, silky texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get started? Let’s walk through the process of making this scrumptious Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Prepare the Vegetables

1. Chop the Broccoli: Begin by cutting your broccoli into bite-sized florets. If you’re using frozen broccoli, just thaw and set it aside.
2. Chop the Onion and Garlic: Finely chop your onion and garlic. This will allow them to infuse the soup with their savory flavor.

Cook the Vegetables

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Add the Broccoli and Seasonings: Toss the broccoli florets into the pot, stirring to coat them in the buttery onion and garlic mixture. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir to combine, letting the vegetables cook for another 2 minutes.

Simmer the Soup

1. Add the Broth and Milk: Pour in the vegetable (or chicken) broth and bring to a simmer. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still slightly crisp.
2. Thicken the Soup: While the soup is simmering, make a simple roux to help thicken the soup. In a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter. Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbling. Slowly pour in a bit of the hot broth from the soup, whisking constantly, until smooth. Then, pour this thickened mixture into the soup pot, stirring to combine. Continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, until the soup thickens to your desired consistency.

Add the Cheese

1. Melt the Cheddar: Turn the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a little at a time, until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy and smooth. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or a pinch of nutmeg for depth.

Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese or a pinch of fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is great on its own, but here are a few creative ways to serve it:

1. With Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with warm, buttery bread or rolls for dipping.
2. In a Bread Bowl: For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl to make it extra hearty.
3. With a Side Salad: Pair the soup with a light, fresh salad to balance the richness of the cheddar.
4. Topped with Bacon: Crumbled bacon on top of the soup adds a savory crunch that complements the creamy texture.
5. Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: For an extra creamy touch, top the soup with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche.

Additional Tips

To make the most of your Broccoli Cheddar Soup, here are some helpful tips:

1. Blender Option: For a super creamy soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth before adding the cheese. This works particularly well if you like a velvety texture without chunks.
2. Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli will give the soup a slightly brighter flavor and texture than frozen, so whenever possible, opt for fresh.
3. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even Gouda for a unique flavor.
4. Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or try a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
5. Double the Recipe: This soup makes great leftovers and freezes well. Make a double batch and store it for later use.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this Broccoli Cheddar Soup to suit your preferences:

• Make It Spicy: Add a bit of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the soup some heat.
• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth to make the soup fully vegetarian-friendly.
• Add Potatoes: For a heartier soup, add diced potatoes and let them cook with the broccoli for extra bulk.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make the soup gluten-free.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based milk, such as almond or coconut milk, for a vegan-friendly twist.

Freezing and Storage

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of Broccoli Cheddar Soup, here’s how to store them properly:

• Storage: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
• Avoid Freezing Cheese: If you’re freezing the soup, it’s best to wait until reheating to add the cheese, as freezing can sometimes cause cheese to become grainy.

Special Equipment

To make this Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials:

• Large Soup Pot: For cooking the soup.
• Whisk: To help with making the roux and stirring the soup.
• Immersion Blender (optional): For pureeing the soup if you prefer a smooth texture.
• Soup Ladle: For serving the soup in bowls.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well, but be sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup.
3. Can I use low-fat milk? Yes, but using full-fat milk or cream will result in a creamier, richer soup.
4. Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, substitute the dairy products with plant-based options like almond milk and dairy-free cheese.

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Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a classic that brings warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day or serving it at your next family gathering, this soup is sure to impress. The creamy texture, rich cheddar flavor, and healthy broccoli make for a comforting dish everyone will love. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations!