Broccoli Cheddar Soup

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup on a chilly day. I still remember the first time I tasted it at a cozy cafe; the creamy texture and the sharpness of the cheese wrapped around me like a warm blanket. It instantly became one of my go-to comfort foods. This soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings back memories of laughter and love shared over a hearty bowl. The vibrant green of the broccoli and the rich yellow of the cheddar cheese are a feast for the eyes as much as they are for the palate. We all need simple yet satisfying dishes in our lives, and this Broccoli Cheddar Soup fits that bill perfectly.

What You’ll Need for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

The ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup are simple, yet each plays a vital role in creating that beloved flavor. The combination of fresh veggies, creamy dairy, and sharp cheese creates a rich and satisfying experience. Each element complements the others, resulting in a warm, comforting bowl that everyone can enjoy.

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter – This rich base is essential for creating the soup’s creamy texture and flavor.
• 1 onion, diced – Adds a sweet and savory depth of flavor when sautéed.
• 1/4 cup flour – Helps to thicken the soup, creating that desired creamy consistency.
• 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half – Provides a rich, smooth base that enhances the overall creaminess.
• 2-4 cups vegetable broth – The liquid component, you can adjust the amount based on your desired thickness.
• 3 cups fresh broccoli, chopped – The star of the show, delivering both flavor and nutrition.
• 1 1/2 cups carrot, julienned – Adds sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg – A hint of warmth and depth that elevates the overall flavor.
• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese – This is what makes the soup cheesy and decadent.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.

Cooking Instructions for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll soon find yourself savoring a warm bowl of this delicious soup. Let’s dive right in!

1. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to a medium skillet over medium heat. Let it melt completely, creating a rich base for the soup.
2. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This step enhances the flavor, making the dish aromatic.
3. After the onion is ready, remove the skillet from heat and set it aside. This will allow the flavors to develop without cooking further.
4. Now, place a medium-heavy bottom pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of butter to this pot and let it melt completely.
5. Once the butter is melted, add the flour to the pot. Cook over medium heat for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly with a whisk. This creates a roux, which is essential for thickening the soup.
6. While whisking, gradually add the vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Make sure there are no lumps and the mixture is smooth.
7. Next, add the heavy cream to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 10 minutes. You’ll notice it thickens as it simmers.
8. Now it’s time to incorporate the broccoli and julienned carrots. Add these to the pot along with nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook over low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the veggies to be tender but still vibrant in color.
9. Once the vegetables are tender, you can decide how to finish the soup. For a chunkier texture, leave it as is. For a smoother consistency, blend about half of the soup using an immersion blender or by carefully transferring it to a traditional blender. Blend it until smooth and return to the pot.
10. Finally, return the soup to low heat and add the sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated. This is what makes the soup luxuriously creamy.
11. Serve the Broccoli Cheddar Soup warm, garnished with additional cheddar cheese if desired. Enjoy every spoonful!

Ways to Customize

Customization is key when it comes to Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Here are some fantastic ways to add your personal touch:

• Add Protein: If you want to make this a heartier dish, consider adding cooked chicken or turkey.
• Herbs and Spices: Incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
• Different Veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach for a colorful and nutritious twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Low-Calorie Version: Use skim milk instead of heavy cream to lighten up the recipe.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

How to Enjoy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

When it comes to enjoying Broccoli Cheddar Soup, there are plenty of serving ideas and pairings that can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious suggestions:

• With Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or soft dinner rolls for dipping.
• Salad Pairing: A light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup beautifully.
• Occasions: This soup is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a starter for a dinner party.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to retain texture.
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy in winter or fall, as it warms you up on a chilly day.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Broccoli Cheddar Soup stands out as a timeless classic that warms both the body and soul. Its creamy texture combined with the delightful flavors of fresh vegetables makes it a dish worth trying. I encourage you to make this soup tonight, whether for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. Enjoy the comforting aroma and delicious taste that will surely bring smiles all around.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines creamy textures with sharp cheese and fresh vegetables. Perfect for cozy evenings, this easy weeknight dinner is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in something satisfying and delicious.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Soups

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 1 Onion Diced
• 1/4 cup Flour
• 2 cups Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half
• 2-4 cups Vegetable Broth Add as needed
• 3 cups Fresh Broccoli Chopped into bite-size pieces
• 1 1/2 cups Carrot Julienned
• 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
• 2 cups Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Blender
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to a medium skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until translucent. Stir a few times. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and set it aside.
2. Next, place a medium-heavy bottom pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the pot is warm, add 4 tablespoons of butter and melt. Once melted, add flour and cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Stir constantly with a whisk. While still whisking, add the vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
3. Add the heavy cream, stir to combine, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli, carrots, and cooked onion. Add nutmeg. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cook over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once done, you can leave the soup chunky or blend about 1/2 of the soup, by adding it to a blender or using an immersion blender. After blending the soup, stir it in for a smoother soup.
6. Return to low heat and add the cheddar cheese. Stir until melted. Serve warm with extra cheddar cheese. Enjoy!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this soup, but the texture may change slightly once reheated.
• Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
• Variations: Try adding different vegetables or spices to customize.
• Thickening: Adjust the amount of broth for desired thickness.

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