When the cold weather sets in or you’re simply in need of a comforting dish, Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup emerges as an unbeatable choice. This creamy delight not only warms you from the inside but also packs in nutritious greens, making for a perfect meal that is both wholesome and indulgent. Whether you are cooking for a family gathering or just want a cozy dinner for yourself, this recipe is straightforward and can easily become a staple in your kitchen.
Why We Love This Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a warm bowl of Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. First, it’s incredibly simple to make, allowing you to whip it up even on a busy weeknight. The blend of broccoli and cheddar creates a deliciously rich flavor that merges perfectly with the smooth, creamy texture of the soup. Additionally, this dish is versatile; you can enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. The health benefits of broccoli play an essential role too, filling you with vitamins while winning over picky eaters with its comforting taste.
Ingredients about Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To prepare your delightful Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen will work well, but fresh tends to yield a better texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: You can opt for sharp or mild, depending on your preference in flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced: This adds a savory depth to your soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the aroma and taste.
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth: This forms the soup’s base; choose a low-sodium variety for better control over saltiness.
- 2 cups milk: Whole milk gives a rich creaminess, but you can use skim or plant-based alternatives if you prefer.
- 1/4 cup flour: This is crucial for thickening the soup and creating that creamy texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning; adjust according to your flavor preference.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter: Your choice of fat for sautéing the onions and garlic.
How to Make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Directions
Making your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a straightforward process that doesn’t require fancy cooking skills.
- Start by grabbing a large pot and placing it over medium heat. Add the olive oil or butter and let it warm up. Once it’s hot, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-5 minutes or until they become tender and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the onion and garlic are soft, sprinkle the flour over them. This step is essential, as you’ll be making a roux. Stir the flour into the mixture and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes. This process helps in eliminating the raw flour taste and begins to form a thick base for your soup.
- Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth. This creates a smooth mixture, which will be the backbone of your soup. After incorporating the broth, add in the broccoli florets. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, decrease the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the broccoli to soften, making it easy to blend into the soup. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally.
- After the broccoli is tender, gently stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the soup achieves a creamy consistency. If you find the soup too thick, you can add a bit more milk or broth to reach your desired texture.
- Finally, season the soup with salt and pepper to your liking. Give it a final stir to ensure everything is well mixed.
- Serve the soup warm and enjoy the savory blend of flavors.
How to Serve Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serving Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is as delightful as making it. Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and consider garnishing it with additional cheese, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or even croutons for an added crunch. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or toasted baguettes, allowing you to soak up every last drop of that delicious creaminess. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your taste—add some spicy pepper flakes for a kick or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
Expert Tips: Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Creating the perfect Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be enhanced with a few expert tips. Consider these recommendations to elevate your cooking experience:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: While frozen broccoli works in a pinch, fresh florets provide better texture and flavor. Select vibrant green broccoli for the best results.
- Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup after simmering. This can give you a velvety texture that many enjoy. Just be cautious not to over-blend, as some chunky bits are delightful.
- Cheese Selection: Shredded cheese is best because it melts easily. You can mix different varieties like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile. Just ensure they are freshly grated for optimal melting.
- Adjust Thickness: If you find your soup too thick, simply add more broth or milk, adjusting to your preferred consistency. For a thicker soup, let it cook longer without the lid.
- Taste as You Go: Different brands of cheese and broth can vary on saltiness. Always taste your soup before serving to adjust seasoning and flavors accordingly.
How to Store Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Storing Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is simple and allows you to enjoy leftovers later. Once the soup has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Frozen soup maintains its best quality for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring frequently. If needed, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back its creamy texture.
Variation of Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Experimenting with your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup can lead to some delightful new flavors. Here are a few variations to consider that can pack additional taste and nutrition:
- Add Additional Vegetables: Carrots, cauliflower, and peas can complement the broccoli. Simply chop and add them at the same time as the broccoli.
- Make it Richer with Cream: Swap out half of the milk for heavy cream for an even richer flavor. This addition creates a luxurious creaminess.
- Spicy Version: If you enjoy some heat, toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño when sautéing the onion and garlic.
- Herbal Infusion: Adding fresh herbs such as thyme or dill towards the end of cooking can bring a fresher taste to the mix. Just a small handful can make a significant difference.
- Cheesy Variants: Consider combining different cheese varieties like pepper jack or feta for a unique flavor twist. Mixing cheeses can change the profile entirely.
FAQ
What is Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup made of?
Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is made from fresh broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, minced garlic, broth, milk, flour, and seasonings. This combination creates a creamy and flavorful soup that is perfect for any meal.
How long does it take to make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Making Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. The preparation and cooking time are quick, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Can I make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, providing a deliciously veggie-packed meal.
How can I thicken Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
To thicken Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you can cook it longer without a lid to help reduce excess liquid. Additionally, adding more flour during the roux stage or using a cornstarch slurry can give the soup the desired thickness.
Can I freeze Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Allow it to cool, then store it in airtight containers. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
With these insights and the straightforward recipe at your disposal, you are well on your way to creating an Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup that delights your taste buds and warms your heart. Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen, fresh preferred for texture.
- 1 medium onion, diced Adds savory depth to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances aroma and taste.
Liquids
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth Use low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
- 2 cups milk Whole milk provides richness; alternatives can be used.
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Choose between sharp or mild based on taste preference.
Thickening Agent
- 1/4 cup flour Essential for thickening the soup.
Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter For sautéing onion and garlic.
Seasoning
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust according to your flavor preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil or butter.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for 3-5 minutes until tender and fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring to form a roux; cook for 1-2 minutes.
Cooking
- Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add in the broccoli florets and simmer for 10 minutes until tender.
- Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir well before serving.
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