Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Introduction

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting classic that combines the rich, sharp flavor of cheddar cheese with the freshness and texture of broccoli. It’s the perfect soup to warm you up on a chilly day or to enjoy as a cozy meal on its own. The velvety smoothness of the soup is balanced by the tender broccoli pieces, while the cheese adds depth and a satisfying richness. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect way to sneak in some healthy vegetables while indulging in a comforting bowl of creamy goodness.

Whether you’re cooking for a family, a gathering, or simply enjoying a bowl for yourself, Broccoli Cheddar Soup is sure to please. It’s a great option for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike, as it’s simple to prepare, uses basic ingredients, and can easily be made ahead of time. This guide will walk you through the steps to create this hearty and flavorful soup, offer helpful tips to perfect the recipe, and suggest fun variations to customize it to your taste.

Why You’ll Love Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Creamy and Comforting: The smooth, creamy base is made with a combination of milk, cream, and cheddar cheese, which results in a rich and indulgent soup that’s perfect for chilly days.
• Nutrient-Rich: Broccoli adds a nutritious element to the soup, providing fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a wholesome choice for those looking to enjoy a comforting meal with added health benefits.
• Easy to Make: This soup comes together in less than an hour and requires minimal prep. It’s great for beginner cooks, and you don’t need any special kitchen tools or techniques to make it.
• Customizable: Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to your preferences. You can make it spicier with added seasonings, swap in different cheeses, or even add other vegetables to enhance the flavor profile.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep. You can make a big batch and enjoy it over the course of several days, or freeze portions for later.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per bowl, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Protein: 10-12g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 5-6g

Ingredients

For the Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

• 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening, optional)
• Croutons, shredded cheese, or fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Broccoli

Start by washing and cutting the broccoli into florets. The size of the florets is up to you, but try to keep them uniform so they cook evenly. You can also chop the stems into smaller pieces if you’d like to use them in the soup for added texture. Once the broccoli is prepared, set it aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Stir the onions occasionally to prevent burning. After the onion has softened, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. The garlic will enhance the overall flavor of the soup and infuse it with a savory depth.

3. Make the Soup Base

If you prefer a thicker soup, sprinkle the tablespoon of flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir it in and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This step helps thicken the soup. If you prefer a thinner soup, you can skip this step and proceed to the next one.

Add the vegetable or chicken broth to the pot, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes. The broth will serve as the base for your soup, and simmering it will allow the flavors of the onions and garlic to blend together.

4. Cook the Broccoli

Once the broth is simmering, add the prepared broccoli florets to the pot. Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can mash some of the broccoli with a potato masher or use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup, depending on your desired texture.

5. Add the Dairy

Once the broccoli is tender, it’s time to add the dairy. Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring as you go. The milk and cream will make the soup rich and creamy. Continue stirring and cook for an additional 5 minutes over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Add the Cheese

Once the soup is hot and creamy, it’s time to add the cheddar cheese. Gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the soup. The cheese will add a velvety richness and a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the broccoli perfectly. Stir the soup constantly until all the cheese is melted and incorporated into the liquid.

7. Season the Soup

Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. If you’d like to enhance the flavor, add ½ teaspoon of dried thyme and a pinch of nutmeg. These seasonings add a subtle depth of flavor to the soup without overpowering the main ingredients.

8. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the Broccoli Cheddar Soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of croutons, additional shredded cheddar cheese, or fresh parsley for a pop of color and texture. Serve the soup hot, paired with a slice of crusty bread for dipping or a light salad on the side.

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli will give the soup a vibrant color and a better texture. If you use frozen broccoli, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the soup to avoid excess moisture.
• Shred the Cheese Yourself: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the creamiest texture, grate the cheese yourself.
• Control the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or replace some of the milk with a lower-fat option. However, using full-fat dairy will give you a richer, more indulgent soup.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to concentrate and the soup to thicken.
• Blending the Soup: If you want a smooth, creamy soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, transfer part or all of the soup to a blender. Be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a finely chopped jalapeño pepper to the soup while it simmers.

Variations of Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Bacon: For a smoky, savory twist, add cooked and crumbled bacon to the soup. It adds a delicious contrast to the creamy base and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup: To make a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk (like almond or coconut milk), dairy-free butter, and vegan cheddar cheese. This is a great alternative for those who are vegan or lactose intolerant.
• Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Potatoes: Add diced potatoes to the soup for extra heartiness. The potatoes will absorb the flavors of the broth and add a nice creamy texture to the soup.
• Spicy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to bring a little heat to the soup. Pairing the cheese with a bit of spice can add a fun twist to the classic flavor.
• Low-Carb Broccoli Cheddar Soup: For a low-carb version, replace the flour with xanthan gum or another low-carb thickening agent. You can also skip the potatoes and keep the focus on the broccoli.

Storage and Shelf Life

Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently over low heat to avoid curdling the cream and cheese. If the soup becomes too thick after being refrigerated, you can add a little more broth or milk to restore the desired consistency.

If you’d like to freeze the soup for later, let it cool completely

before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it over low heat. Be aware that the texture of the broccoli may change slightly after freezing, but the soup will still be delicious.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is filling on its own, but pairing it with complementary side dishes can make for an even more satisfying meal. Here are some great pairing ideas:

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Salad: A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For an extra indulgent meal, serve the soup alongside a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The combination of gooey cheese and creamy soup is unbeatable.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables, like carrots or sweet potatoes, pair nicely with the richness of the soup and add a variety of flavors.

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Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a beloved comfort food that offers the perfect combination of creamy texture, sharp cheese, and healthy vegetables. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a cozy evening, or preparing a meal in advance, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a dish anyone can make and enjoy. The recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste, with options for different variations, seasonings, and add-ins. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weekday meal or a special dish to share with friends, this soup is always a winner. Enjoy the comforting warmth and rich flavor of Broccoli Cheddar Soup, and let it become a staple in your kitchen!