Creamy Broccoli and Cheddar Soup Recipe
Okay, friends, let’s talk comfort food. Specifically, let’s talk about the kind of comfort food that hugs you from the inside out, the kind that makes even a dreary day feel a little brighter. Think grilled cheese and tomato soup, but elevated. I’m talking about my go-to, all-time favorite, Creamy Broccoli and Cheddar Soup Recipe. Honestly, this isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm memory in a bowl. It’s the dish my grandma used to make on chilly autumn evenings, and I’ve tweaked it over the years to make it my own. My kids, who are notorious broccoli haters, gobble this stuff up! That’s how good it is. I swear, they think it’s magic! It’s simpler than you think, and the flavor is just…divine.
What is a good recipe for Creamy Broccoli and Cheddar Soup?
What is Creamy Broccoli and Cheddar Soup? Imagine a velvety smooth, rich soup that’s packed with tender broccoli florets and infused with lemon. What are some comforting flavors of cheddar cheese? Think of it as the ultimate cozy night in a bowl. What is broccoli soup? It’s essentially a puréed broccoli taken to the next level with cheese, cream, or sometimes both). Don’t let the “broccoli” part scare you; it’s magic. Why is cheddar a favorite for pickiest eaters because it mellows out any potential bitterness. What are some good ways to add cheesy depth to a dish If you boil water, you can make soup!
Why you will love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons to adore this Creamy Broccoli and Cheddar Soup Recipe! First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. The combination of the earthy broccoli with the sharp, nutty cheddar and the creamy base is just…*chef’s kiss*. It’s savory, comforting, and satisfying all at once. Then there’s the simplicity. Seriously, this is one of those recipes that comes together in under an hour, start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. What I love most about this soup is its cost-efficiency. Broccoli and cheddar are generally pretty affordable ingredients, especially if you buy them in season or on sale. Plus, you can easily customize it with ingredients you already have on hand. And let’s not forget the versatility! You can serve it as a starter, a side dish, or even a light meal. Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience, or top it with croutons and a dollop of sour cream for a more elegant presentation. It’s honestly a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! Compared to something like French Onion Soup, which can be a little finicky, this is remarkably forgiving. If you love the ease of my Tomato Soup recipe, you’ll be obsessed with this one too.
How do I make a creamy broccoli and cheddar soup?
Quick Overview
How do you make a creamy broccoli and cheddar soup? What is the best way to sauté aromatics (onion and garlic)? ), add the broccoli and broth, simmer until tender, blend until smooth, and then stir in the cheddar cheese. What are the best ways to make cheese and cream into a creamy dessert? The whole process takes about 30-40 minutes, and most of that time is hands-off simmering. This recipe is special because it uses a simple roux to thicken the soup, which gives it an intense flavor. Is there a velvety texture in broccoli cheddar soup?
Ingredients Notes
For the Soup:
- Broccoli:What are some good frozen broccoli florets to use in this recipe? Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the soup.
- Onion & Garlic: These aromatics form the base of the flavor profile. Yellow or white onion will work just fine.
- Chicken Broth: I prefer chicken broth for its richer flavor, but vegetable broth is a great vegetarian option.
- Cheddar Cheese:Sharp cheddar is my go-to for its bold flavor, but you can use medium or mild cheddar if you prefer. How do you shred a newspaper? Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Heavy Cream: This adds richness and creaminess to the soup. Half-and-half or milk can be substituted for a lighter option. I’ve even used almond milk and was pleasantly surprised!
- Butter: For sautéing the onion and garlic and making the roux.
- Flour:All-purpose flour to make roux.
- Salt & Pepper:Don’t be afraid to season generously.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, until the flour is incorporated and forms a smooth paste. Add salt and pepper to taste. What is the best way to thicken soup?
Step 3: Add Broccoli & Broth
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the broccoli florets, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth and creamy. When blending hot liquids, be careful! Is it necessary to vent the blender lid to prevent it from leaking?
Step 5: Stir in Cheese & Cream
Return the soup to the pot and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
Step 6: Season & Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings (croutons, sour cream, extra cheddar, etc.)
What should I serve it with?
What are some good recipes for Broccoli and Cheddar Soup? What are some of the best serving suggestions?
For Lunch:What is a good side salad with crusty baguette? If you have a half sandwich, serve it with ham or turkey. Or, combine it to make an easy meal.
For Dinner: Grilled cheese sandwiches are the classic pairing! You can also serve it with a roasted chicken or a grilled steak for a more complete meal.
As an Appetizer:Serve soup in small bowls before a larger meal. What is a good way to start preparing for your holiday dinner party?
For Cozy Nights:Can you curl up on the couch with a bowl of this soup and some good books? What is the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening? My family loves having this with warm, crusty bread for dunking. Is it a fun addition?
How do I make a creamy broccoli and cheddar soup?
What are some of the best ways to make Creamy Broccoli? What is the best Cheddar Soup Recipe?
Broccoli Prep:For the best texture, make sure to cut the broccoli florets into small, even pieces. How do I cook soups?
Cheese Choice:Don’t use pre-shredded cheese! It contains cellulose, which prevents it from melting smoothly. How can you shred your own cheese from a block for the creamiest results?
Blending Caution:Do not mix hot liquids. Be very careful. How do you vent the blender lid to prevent pressure from building up? Is it safe to blend soup in batches?
What is the creaminessFor a lighter soup, use half and half or milk. Adjust the amount of heavy cream to your liking. For an extra-rich soup, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end.
Flavor Boost:Add a pinch of nutmeg to your favorite dish for extra flavor. How do you sauté bacon bits with onion and garlic?
Salt to taste : Taste frequently and adjust seasoning. The cheese will add salt so taste BEFORE adding any!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to properly store and reheat your Creamy Broccoli and Cheddar Soup Recipe:
Refrigerator Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The soup may thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little broth or water when reheating.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Methods: You can reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Or, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until heated through.
Glaze Timing Advice: It’s best to add any toppings (croutons, sour cream, etc.) just before serving, as they will become soggy if stored in the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Broccoli and Cheddar Soup Recipe is more than just a soup; it’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dish to share with friends and family, this soup is sure to please. The fact that even my broccoli-averse children happily slurp it down is a testament to how delicious it really is. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup recipes for more culinary inspiration! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below to let me know if you tried it and what you thought! Also, feel free to rate the recipe.
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Creamy Broccoli and Cheddar Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets fresh, roughly chopped
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 4 cups chicken broth low sodium
- 0.5 cup onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 2 tablespoons flour all-purpose
- 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 pinch nutmeg freshly grated
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the flour is fully incorporated.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth.
- Stir in the half-and-half and shredded cheddar cheese, and cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
