Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe – Cozy Comfort Food

The moment you lift the lid off a steaming pot of Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a wave of cheesy goodness envelops you. The earthy aroma of fresh broccoli mingles with the rich scent of melted cheddar, creating an irresistible invitation to dig in. This soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect for cozying up on the couch with a good book or catching up on your favorite TV show. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin recipe.

Now, let’s be honest: who doesn’t love that creamy texture that makes each spoonful feel like a celebration? Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a lazy Sunday brunch, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup will elevate your mood and tantalize your taste buds. So grab your ladle and get ready for an amazing flavor experience!

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Broccoli: About 4 cups, chopped into bite-sized florets. Look for bright green heads with firm stalks for the best flavor.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Use about 2 cups shredded cheese. Go for the sharpest variety you can find for maximum flavor impact.
• Vegetable Broth: You’ll need about 4 cups. Choose low-sodium broth to better control the saltiness of your soup.
• Heavy Cream: For that luscious creaminess, use about 1 cup. You can substitute with plant-based cream if desired.
• Onion: One medium onion, finely chopped adds depth of flavor to your soup base.
• Garlic: Two cloves minced garlic give an aromatic punch; fresh is best!
• Salt and Pepper: To taste; these are essential for bringing out all those delicious flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil (or butter if you prefer) and toss in the chopped onions. Sauté until they turn translucent, about five minutes. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Broccoli

Stir in the chopped broccoli florets and sauté them alongside the aromatics for about three minutes. This helps enhance their color and flavor before adding any liquids.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Add your vegetable broth into the pot, ensuring that it covers all the veggies snugly. Bring it to a gentle boil; then reduce heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender—about eight to ten minutes should do!

Step 4: Blend It Smooth

Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring to a regular blender), purée the soup until it’s nice and creamy but still has some texture from those lovely broccoli bits. Return it to low heat.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Stir in that luscious heavy cream followed by your shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until melted and fully incorporated—this is where all that cheesy goodness comes alive!

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste your soup! Adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with extra cheese or croutons if you’re feeling fancy, and enjoy your beautiful creation!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

There you have it—a delightful bowl of homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s not just comforting but also brings smiles all around! Whether it’s dinner time or snack time, consider this recipe your new best friend in the kitchen! Baked Potato Soup Recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Add chopped broccoli and vegetable broth, then simmer until tender. Blend until smooth, stir in cheese, and voilà! Your creamy masterpiece awaits.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out broccoli for cauliflower or add carrots for sweetness. Spice lovers can toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some nutmeg for an extra flavor kick. Customize it to your heart’s desire!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use medium heat on the stovetop and stir frequently to maintain that creamy texture.

Sometimes, while stirring this soup, I remember how my niece squealed with joy when she first tasted it—her love for broccoli blossomed right there in my kitchen!

FAQs

What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy and flavorful dish made primarily with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of seasonings. It’s a comforting choice, especially during colder months. Flavorful Cowboy Salad This soup combines nutritious vegetables with the richness of cheese, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. You can also enhance it by adding chicken or turkey for extra protein.

How can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthier?

To make Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthier, consider using low-fat cheese or incorporating more vegetables like carrots and celery into the mix. You can also substitute heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream. Using low-sodium vegetable broth instead of regular broth will help reduce sodium intake while keeping the flavor intact.

Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup! To do this, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion when freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove. Remember that the texture may slightly change after freezing.

What goes well with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Broccoli Cheddar Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or rolls for dipping. A simple side salad adds freshness and complements the rich flavors of the soup nicely. Mediterranean Lentil Salad For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled chicken or turkey sandwiches, making it a complete meal that satisfies your taste buds.

Conclusion for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of nutrition and flavor, making it a perfect choice for any meal. By using fresh ingredients like broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, you create a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets You can customize this recipe by adding proteins such as chicken or turkey while maintaining its creamy texture without using animal-derived gelatin. Enjoying this soup alongside crusty bread or salads enhances the experience even further!

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Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm, creamy delight that brings together fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, making it perfect for chilly days. This comforting dish is quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. With its vibrant green color and rich texture, it’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for family dinners or cozy lunches. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a fulfilling meal.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or plant-based cream)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add 2 tbsp olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
2. Stir in broccoli florets and sauté for another 3 minutes.
3. Pour in vegetable broth, ensuring vegetables are covered. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the broccoli is tender (8-10 minutes).
4. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, purée the soup until creamy but still textured.
5. Return to low heat, stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper; serve hot with optional toppings like extra cheese or croutons.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering and Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like cayenne pepper or nutmeg. - Substitute broccoli with cauliflower or add carrots for sweetness. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.