Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavors of broccoli with the creamy richness of cheddar cheese. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days and makes for a quick meal that soothes the soul. The creamy texture and cheesy taste are sure to satisfy your taste buds, whether you’re enjoying it alone or with company.
Why We Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
One of the best things about this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is its simplicity. It features a blend of fresh vegetables and creamy cheese, making it a nutritious choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The vibrant green broccoli adds plenty of vitamins while the cheddar provides a rich, satisfying taste. Plus, it captures the essence of home cooking, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you still crave something homemade. It’s versatile as well; serve it on its own or pair it with crusty bread for a hearty meal.
Ingredients about Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To make this delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup Directions
Creating your own Broccoli Cheddar Soup is straightforward and rewarding. Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. As the butter melts, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook this mixture until the onion becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step lays the foundation for the soup’s aromatic base.
Next, incorporate the 2 cups of broccoli florets into the pot along with the 4 cups of vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes or until the broccoli is tender. Check the broccoli by piercing it with a fork. If it’s easy to pierce, you are ready to move on to the next step.
Using an immersion blender (or a traditional blender if you don’t have one), blend the soup until you achieve a smooth consistency. This is the key step in creating the creamy texture that distinguishes this soup. If you prefer some chunks of broccoli for added texture, you can blend less.
Once the soup is smooth, return it to the stove and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and the shredded cheddar cheese. Allow the cheese to melt completely while stirring. This will result in a rich and velvety soup that is hard to resist. Give your soup a taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until heated through, then you’re ready to serve.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serving Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate your meal experience. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, allowing the creamy texture to shine. For a garnish, consider topping each bowl with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese for an enhanced cheesy flavor. You could also add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a touch of chopped green onions for a bit of color and extra flavor.
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a soft baguette, or even a side salad. These accompaniments not only complement the flavors of the soup but also provide a hearty addition to your meal. Enjoy the soup warm, and there’s nothing better than cozying up with a bowl of this delicious broccoli cheddar goodness.
Expert Tips: Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To make your Broccoli Cheddar Soup even more amazing, consider these expert tips. First, always use fresh broccoli florets for the best flavor and nutrition. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it to avoid excess water in the soup.
When blending the soup, you can control the consistency to your liking. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture, leaving some broccoli pieces intact.
For an even richer flavor, you might want to add a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. These simple additions can elevate the flavor of the cheese and balance the richness of the cream.
Lastly, customization is key. Consider adding other veggies like carrots or celery during the initial cooking phase for an extra nutritional boost and flavor depth.
How to Store Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Leftovers of Broccoli Cheddar Soup can easily be stored for later enjoyment. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. This will help preserve its flavor and texture. Properly stored in the refrigerator, the soup will last up to 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion as the soup freezes. The soup can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency.
Variation of Broccoli Cheddar Soup
While classic Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a crowd favorite, you can experiment with various versions to make it your own. Here are a few ideas for variations to try:
- Add Protein: If you want to make your soup more filling, consider adding cooked chicken or white beans for added protein. Simply stir them in at the end, allowing them to heat through.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes when you’re sautéing the onions and garlic. This will give your soup a spicy flavor that contrasts nicely with the creaminess.
- Try Different Cheeses: While cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere, gouda, or a sharp white cheddar will create unique flavor profiles and textures.
- Herb Infusions: Fresh herbs can add a delightful freshness to your soup. Try stirring in some fresh thyme, parsley, or even a small amount of dill at the end of cooking for a refreshing twist.
- Roasted Broccoli: For a deeper flavor, consider roasting the broccoli before adding it to the soup. This step will bring out the natural sweetness of the broccoli and add a smoky depth to your soup.
FAQ
What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy soup made primarily from broccoli and cheddar cheese, creating a rich and comforting dish.
How long does it take to make Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
You can make Broccoli Cheddar Soup in about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal option.
Can I use frozen broccoli for Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup.
How can I make my Broccoli Cheddar Soup thicker?
To thicken your soup, you can blend it longer, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water, or include more cheese for an even creamier texture.
How should I store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze it for up to three months for later use.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh broccoli for best flavor.
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 4 cups vegetable broth Can substitute with chicken broth.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a richer flavor.
Cheese and Fats
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter For sautéing.
Seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
Cooking
- Incorporate the broccoli florets and vegetable broth into the pot. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend less.
- Return the soup to the stove and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and let simmer for a few more minutes until heated through.
Serving
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls, optionally garnishing with extra cheddar cheese, black pepper, or chopped green onions. Serve warm.
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