Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting choice that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. This delightful soup combines the vibrant flavors of fresh broccoli with the rich creaminess of cheddar cheese, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for chilly days, this simple recipe is sure to become a family favorite and a regular in your cooking repertoire.
Why We Love This Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Firstly, it’s incredibly quick and straightforward to make, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. The combination of broccoli and cheddar is a classic that many people cherish from childhood, evoking feelings of nostalgia and comfort. With just a handful of basic ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal that nourishes both your body and soul. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite spices or serve it alongside a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Who wouldn’t love a warm bowl of creamy soup that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy?
Ingredients about Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
How to Make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Directions
Creating your own Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful culinary experience that requires just a few simple steps. Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add either olive oil or butter to the pot, letting it melt and coat the bottom. Once the oil is hot, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the onion becomes translucent and tender. This step is crucial as it forms the flavorful base of your soup.
Next, sprinkle the flour over the sautéed mixture. This is where you’ll create a roux, which will help thicken your soup. Stir the flour into the mixture and let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t brown too much. Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth, continuing to stir until you have a smooth and lump-free mixture. This gradual blending helps avoid any clumps in your soup, resulting in a silky texture.
Once your broth is well combined, it’s time to add in the broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. During this time, the broccoli will become tender and vibrant. Keep an eye on it, and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
After 10 minutes, check the broccoli’s tenderness. If it’s cooked to your liking, stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. This is where the magic truly happens—the cheese will melt into the hot mixture, creating a creamy and luscious soup. Stir until all the cheese is melted and fully incorporated, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree it to your desired consistency.
Once everything is combined, it’s time to serve your delicious Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup warm. Ladle it into bowls and, if desired, garnish with additional cheese or croutons for a touch of extra flavor and texture. Enjoy this comforting dish as the perfect way to warm up on a cool evening!
How to Serve Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serving Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is as enjoyable as making it. Start by ladling the soup into generously sized bowls. To elevate your dining experience, consider adding a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese on top. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra cheesy goodness with each spoonful.
For a delightful crunch, serve your soup alongside some crispy croutons. Whether store-bought or homemade, croutons provide a texture contrast that complements the creamy soup beautifully. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, pair the soup with thick slices of crusty bread. A sourdough or whole-grain loaf can be perfect for dipping and soaking up every flavorful drop.
Additionally, if you want to add some freshness to your meal, consider including a light salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup. This well-rounded way of serving Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup will not only impress your family and guests but also ensure a hearty, satisfying meal.
Expert Tips: Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: While fresh broccoli florets add vibrant color and nutrition, frozen broccoli can save time and is perfectly acceptable. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.
- Choosing the Right Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese gives the best flavor, but feel free to explore other cheese options. Gruyère or provolone can add unique flavor profiles to your soup.
- Make It Creamier: For an extra creamy texture, consider using half and half instead of milk. This will enhance the richness and indulgence of the soup.
- Add More Vegetables: If you want to pack more nutrients into your soup, consider adding other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time so everything is tender.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to brighten the flavors and give your soup a kick.
These tips will help you perfect your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup and make it a staple in your home cooking!
How to Store Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Storing your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup properly will help maintain its flavor and texture for future enjoyment. Allow the soup to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to a suitable container. Airtight containers are always best for storage. You can use glass jars or plastic containers, but make sure they are well-sealed.
Refrigerate the soup if you plan to enjoy it within a few days. The soup can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
If you need to store the soup for a longer period, consider freezing it. Freezing is a great option for meal prep. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. The soup can last in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. To reheat frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove.
Variation of Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
At the heart of Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is its versatile foundation. You can tweak the recipe in various ways to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some exciting variations you might enjoy:
- Add Protein: To make your soup even more filling, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or even white beans. These add protein and make the soup more satisfying.
- Go Vegan: For a plant-based version, substitute the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk and use nutritional yeast in place of cheese for a cheesy flavor. Just ensure your broth is vegetable-based.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley during the cooking process. A splash of lemon juice can also add brightness and elevate the overall taste.
- Other Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or Monterey Jack for different taste experiences. Combining various cheeses can create a truly scrumptious soup.
- Comforting Add-Ins: Incorporate ingredients like diced potatoes or corn for more texture and heartiness. These add dimensions to the soup, making each spoonful exciting.
These variations keep this classic dish fresh and exciting, ensuring you never get bored of this comforting favorite.
FAQ
What is the best way to make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup thick?
The flour roux method effectively thickens the soup. Ensure to cook it for a minute or two before adding the broth. If you want it even thicker, you can blend a portion of the soup after cooking and then stir it back in.
Can I make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to reheat gently to avoid curdling the cheese.
Can I use other types of cheese in Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, while cheddar is the most common cheese used, feel free to mix it up with other varieties such as Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
How can I make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce while cooking to give your soup a nice spicy kick. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
What can I serve with Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a light salad, or even some homemade croutons for added crunch. Consider a side dish that complements the creamy soup for a complete meal.
Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen, thawed if frozen.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth Use vegetable broth for a vegan version.
- 2 cups milk Can substitute with almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Thickening and Seasoning
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar is recommended.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil or butter until melted.
- Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed mixture and stir for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux.
Cooking
- Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth until smooth.
- Add the broccoli florets and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a smoother soup, blend part of the soup and stir it back in.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional cheese or croutons if desired.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!