Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe – A Cozy Delight

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, brimming with creamy goodness and a vibrant green hue that promises to make your taste buds dance. Imagine spoonfuls of velvety soup, rich with the nutty flavor of broccoli mingling harmoniously with sharp cheddar cheese, all while filling your kitchen with an aroma that could entice even the pickiest eater. It’s comfort food at its finest, making those dreary days feel a little brighter—especially when served with crusty bread for dipping.

This delightful dish is not just for chilly nights; it’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without the stress. Picture yourself scooping up this luscious soup while sharing laughs with friends or cozying up on the couch after a long day. Trust me, once you take that first sip, you won’t just be tasting soup; you’ll be diving into a nostalgic memory, perhaps recalling family dinners or the first time you tried this culinary classic.

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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

• Fresh Broccoli: About 4 cups of chopped broccoli florets create the heart of our soup, providing both flavor and nutrition.

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Use about 2 cups of grated cheddar for that rich, cheesy goodness that makes this soup irresistible.

• Onion: A medium onion adds depth and sweetness when sautéed until translucent.

• Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic bring out bold flavors and add an aromatic touch to the dish.

• Vegetable Broth: Use approximately 4 cups of vegetable broth as the base for your soup; it enhances flavors while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.

• Heavy Cream: About one cup will add a luxurious creaminess that elevates your soup to restaurant quality.

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 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent—about five minutes should do it! Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broccoli

Stir in your chopped broccoli florets and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring it all to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about ten minutes or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Step 3: Blend It Up

Using an immersion blender (or transferring to a blender carefully), puree the mixture until smooth. You want it creamy but can leave some small chunks if you prefer texture—totally up to you!

Step 4: Cheese It Up

Return the pureed soup to low heat and gradually stir in your grated cheddar cheese until melted completely—like watching magic happen right before your eyes!

Step 5: Creamy Finish

Pour in heavy cream and mix well until incorporated. Let it heat through gently without boiling—about two more minutes should suffice.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle generous portions into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar or crispy bacon bits if you’re feeling fancy! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! Your very own bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup awaits you—a delightful blend of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds). Enjoy every creamy spoonful!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.

To achieve the best broccoli cheddar soup, start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter for that aromatic foundation. Next, add your chopped broccoli and broth, letting it simmer until tender. Finally, stir in the cheese until it melts into creamy perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your broccoli cheddar soup! Swap out broccoli for cauliflower if you’re feeling adventurous or add some diced carrots for extra color. Want a kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.

Storing & Reheating

To store your delicious broccoli cheddar soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for about three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

Cooking this soup reminds me of cozy winter evenings spent with my family, huddled around the table sharing laughter and stories while slurping from our bowls. It always feels like home!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

To make a delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, heavy cream, and seasonings such as salt and pepper. You will also need butter or olive oil for sautéing the vegetables. Optional ingredients include carrots or potatoes to enhance the flavor and texture of the soup. Using high-quality cheese makes a significant difference in the richness of the broth. Ensure your broccoli is fresh for the best taste.

How long does Broccoli Cheddar Soup last in the fridge?

Homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Frozen soup can maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent curdling of the cheese. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before consuming leftovers.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?

Yes, you can easily make a vegan version of Broccoli Cheddar Soup by substituting dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Opt for a dairy-free cheese that melts well as a substitute for cheddar cheese. Vegetable broth should replace chicken broth to ensure it remains vegan-friendly. This adaptation allows everyone to enjoy this comforting soup without sacrificing taste.

What dishes pair well with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Broccoli Cheddar Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. A fresh garden salad complements its richness, providing a crisp contrast. Alternatively, serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. A simple sandwich like grilled cheese adds to the comfort food experience. If you prefer something lighter, opt for some roasted vegetables on the side. These combinations not only enhance your meal but also make it satisfying and wholesome. For more inspiration, check out this delicious side dishes recipe.

Conclusion for Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients with rich flavors. It’s easy to prepare and offers flexibility with ingredient substitutions, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone meal or paired with sides like crusty bread or salads, this soup is sure to please everyone at your table. Remember that proper storage can extend its shelf life, allowing you to enjoy this comforting soup even longer!

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Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy and comforting dish that envelops you in warmth with every spoonful. This delightful soup blends fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a velvety texture and rich flavor that’s perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends. Easy to prepare, this recipe evokes nostalgia while offering a nourishing meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add the broccoli florets and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or carefully transfer to a blender). For added texture, leave small chunks if desired.
4. Return the pureed soup to low heat and gradually stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Pour in the heavy cream, mixing well without boiling. Heat through for about 2 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or crispy bacon bits if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240ml)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For variations, swap broccoli with cauliflower or add diced carrots for color. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.