Broccoli Cheddar Soup

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup. I still remember the first time I had it; I was at a quaint little café on a chilly winter day. The moment I took a spoonful, I was enveloped in this creamy goodness that seemed to hug me from the inside out. Every bite was a delightful blend of rich cheddar cheese and vibrant broccoli, a combination that felt both nourishing and indulgent. It quickly became my go-to dish whenever I needed a pick-me-up during the cold months.

As the days grew shorter and the temperatures dropped, I found myself craving this soup more and more. It wasn’t just about the flavors; it was about the memories it stirred up—the laughter shared over a hot bowl, the warmth spreading through my hands as I cradled the mug. I decided to recreate this dish at home, determined to capture that same magic. With a few simple ingredients, I was able to whip up a batch that rivaled the café version. My kitchen filled with the aroma of sautéing vegetables and melting cheese, instantly lifting my spirits.

Now, I love serving my homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup on cozy evenings or during gatherings with friends. It never fails to impress and warms hearts just as much as it warms bellies. I can’t help but smile every time I see the faces light up with joy after the first spoonful. If you’ve been on the hunt for the perfect winter soup, look no further!

What You Need for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

When it comes to the ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup, the key is balance. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect harmony of flavor and texture. The freshness of the vegetables complements the creaminess of the cheddar cheese, while the spices add depth. Let’s dive into these essential ingredients!

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This is the base for sautéing your vegetables, adding a lovely richness to the soup.
• 1 onion, diced: A must-have for flavor, the onion provides a sweet yet savory base.
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed: Adds aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish.
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: They bring sweetness and color to the soup.
• 2 stalks celery, chopped: Provides crunch and a fresh flavor contrast.
• 2 tablespoons flour: This helps thicken the soup, creating a creamy consistency.
• 2 cups half-and-half: Adds richness and creaminess, making every bite luxurious.
• 2 cups chicken stock: The savory base of our soup, enhancing all the flavors.
• 1 head broccoli, cut into florets: The star of the show, adding both nutrition and that beautiful green color.
• 2 cups baby spinach: A nutrient booster that wilts perfectly into the soup.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: A subtle spice that adds an interesting complexity.
• 2 teaspoons ground paprika: Offers a mild spiciness and depth of flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded: The star ingredient that makes this soup creamy and cheesy!

Putting Together Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and great aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy delight!

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. As it warms, it will create a beautiful base for your soup. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers. Next, introduce the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden. Pay attention to the aroma—it should be delightful!

2. Once the vegetables are fragrant and the onion is browned, take the pot off the heat. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to combine. This will help thicken your soup later. You might see some clumping, but don’t worry; that’s normal. Carefully pour in the half-and-half while stirring continuously to ensure a smooth mix.

3. Now, it’s time to add the essential liquids! Pour in the chicken stock and stir well. Then, add the broccoli, spinach, ground coriander, and ground paprika. This is where the magic begins! Return the pot to the burner and cover it. Allow the mixture to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent any lumps and to check on the broccoli for tenderness.

4. As the soup simmers, you’ll begin to see the colors meld together beautifully. Once the broccoli is fork-tender, it’s time to add in the cheddar cheese. Stir until it melts completely and the soup becomes even creamier. Season with salt and pepper to taste; this is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor!

5. To achieve that velvety smooth texture, use a stick blender to purée the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can leave some chunks of broccoli intact. Remember, the blending should be done carefully to avoid any hot splashes!

6. Your Broccoli Cheddar Soup is ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls while it’s hot. You can even sprinkle a bit more cheddar cheese on top for extra flair. Enjoy the warmth and richness of this comforting dish!

Making Adjustments

Cooking is all about adjustments and personal touches. Here are some tips to help you customize your Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Just reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this soup! Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for about three months. Remember to reheat it slowly!
• Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
• Spice Level: If you enjoy some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the mix.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken stock for vegetable broth and skip any meat add-ins.

Perfect Pairings for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

There are so many delightful ways to enjoy Broccoli Cheddar Soup that elevate the experience even further. Here are some suggestions:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty sourdough or a warm baguette pairs beautifully with the creamy soup. It’s perfect for dipping!
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with fresh greens provides balance to the richness of the soup. Toss in some nuts for crunch!
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a classic twist, serve your soup alongside a grilled cheese sandwich. Nothing beats this comforting combo!
• Occasions: This soup is fantastic for cozy winter dinners, casual lunch gatherings, or potlucks. It’s sure to impress!
• Seasonal Pairings: In winter, consider adding seasonal roasted vegetables as a side. They complement the soup’s flavors wonderfully.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers. They can last up to three days in the fridge, making them great for meal prep!

FAQ

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just a meal; it’s a manifestation of warmth and comfort. Its creamy texture, combined with the rich flavor of cheddar and the freshness of broccoli, makes it a standout dish in any season. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings. Each bowl is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, and I can’t wait for you to share it with your loved ones.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, cheesy, and filled with vibrant veggies. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Make it tonight for a delicious treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Soups

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 Onion diced
• 2 cloves Garlic crushed
• 2 Carrots peeled and chopped
• 2 Celery chopped
• 2 tablespoons Flour
• 2 cups Half-and-half
• 2 cups Chicken stock
• 1 head Broccoli cut into florets
• 2 cups Baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons Ground paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups Cheddar cheese shredded

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Blender
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Peeler

Method

 

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. As it warms, it will create a beautiful base for your soup. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers. Next, introduce the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden. Pay attention to the aroma—it should be delightful!
2. Once the vegetables are fragrant and the onion is browned, take the pot off the heat. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to combine. This will help thicken your soup later. You might see some clumping, but don’t worry; that’s normal. Carefully pour in the half-and-half while stirring continuously to ensure a smooth mix.
3. Now, it’s time to add the essential liquids! Pour in the chicken stock and stir well. Then, add the broccoli, spinach, ground coriander, and ground paprika. This is where the magic begins! Return the pot to the burner and cover it. Allow the mixture to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent any lumps and to check on the broccoli for tenderness.
4. As the soup simmers, you’ll begin to see the colors meld together beautifully. Once the broccoli is fork-tender, it’s time to add in the cheddar cheese. Stir until it melts completely and the soup becomes even creamier. Season with salt and pepper to taste; this is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor!
5. To achieve that velvety smooth texture, use a stick blender to purée the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can leave some chunks of broccoli intact. Remember, the blending should be done carefully to avoid any hot splashes!
6. Your Broccoli Cheddar Soup is ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls while it’s hot. You can even sprinkle a bit more cheddar cheese on top for extra flair. Enjoy the warmth and richness of this comforting dish!

Notes

Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Just reheat gently.

Yes, you can freeze this soup! Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for about three months. Remember to reheat it slowly!

Serve with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

If you enjoy some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the mix.

For a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken stock for vegetable broth and skip any meat add-ins.

Previous PostCauliflower Casserole

Next Post Strawberry Pie

Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!