When the chilly weather rolls in or you simply need a cozy meal to brighten your day, Broccoli Cheddar Soup is your go-to recipe. This creamy, cheesy dish beautifully melds the earthy flavor of broccoli with the rich, sharp taste of cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of soup that warms your soul and fills your stomach. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer, this soup is versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.
Why We Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delightful for the taste buds, but it brings along a wealth of comforting memories and feelings. It’s one of those recipes that you can whip up in a short time, using minimal ingredients, yet deliver a meal that tastes like it took all day to prepare. You will love how easy it is to make, and with its creamy texture paired with wholesome broccoli and carrots, you can feel good about what you are eating. Every spoonful offers a delightful blend of flavors that dance on your palate—each bite feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients about Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To make this comforting bowl of goodness, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups vegetable stock or chicken stock
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 3 cups broccoli florets and tender stems, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium or 3 small carrots, shredded
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup Directions
To embark on your journey towards culinary bliss, begin by gathering all your ingredients in one place. A good start makes for a smooth process!
Melt the Butter: Begin your magical soup adventure by heating a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt slowly, filling your kitchen with its delightful aroma.
Sauté the Onion: Once the butter has melted, toss in the diced onion. Sauté it for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. You want that sweet onion flavor to come through beautifully.
Add Garlic and Spices: The next step is crucial. Stir in the minced garlic, along with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Let them mingle in the pot for another 30 seconds. You’ll want to do this until your kitchen is filled with a fragrant wave of deliciousness.
Incorporate Flour: Now it’s time to add in your all-purpose flour. Stir continuously, letting the flour cook for about one or two minutes until it turns a light golden color and loses that raw floury taste.
Pour in the Stock and Half-and-Half: Gradually stir in your vegetable stock (or chicken stock if you prefer) alongside the half-and-half. Increase the heat to medium-high until the mixture reaches a gentle boil.
Add Broccoli and Carrots: Once boiling, lower the heat back down to medium-low. Toss in the chopped broccoli florets and shredded carrots, giving everything a nice stir. Partially cover the pot and let soup simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom, and wait for the veggies to become tender.
Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat, and here comes the exciting part—add shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir it in a handful at a time, allowing it to melt completely and blend into that creamy goodness.
Seasoning: Finally, adjust your seasoning. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. This simple step can elevate your soup from good to downright fantastic!
This simple yet flavorful process ensures that your Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only easy to make but also a delight to taste!
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serving Broccoli Cheddar Soup is where your creativity can shine! Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your homemade soup:
Classic Crusty Bread: Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread. Whether it’s a baguette, sourdough, or even a simple loaf, dipping it into the creamy goodness is heavenly!
Garnish with Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, add a sprinkle of extra shredded sharp cheddar on top of your soup just before serving. You can even place it under the broiler for a minute to let it melt.
Fresh Herbs for a Pop of Color: Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a vibrant touch to your soup.
Serve in Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve your soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. Not only does it look impressive, but you also get to enjoy the delicious bread with every bite!
Accompany with Salad or Sandwiches: A light salad or a grilled cheese sandwich on the side can make for a well-rounded meal.
No matter how you choose to serve your soup, remember that the essence lies in enjoying every comforting spoonful!
Expert Tips: Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To master your Broccoli Cheddar Soup, keep these expert tips in mind:
Choosing Your Cheese: While sharp cheddar is recommended for optimal flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for an added kick.
Blend for a Silky Texture: If you prefer a smoother soup, consider blending it using an immersion blender after adding the cheese. Just be careful not to overdo it; some chunks of broccoli add character!
Make-Ahead Convenience: Make this soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, and it’s a quick meal to reheat when life gets busy.
Freezing Options: If you’re looking to save some for later, this soup freezes well! Pack it into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. Just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Adjust Thickness: If you find your soup too thick after heating, add a splash of vegetable stock or water until you reach your preferred consistency.
How to Store Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Storing your Broccoli Cheddar Soup correctly ensures it stays delicious for longer. Follow these simple guidelines:
Refrigeration: Place your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about three days.
Freezing: Once cooled, transfer the soup to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. This method will keep it good for up to three months. Just be sure to leave some space in the container for the soup to expand as it freezes.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring frequently. If it’s thicker than you’d like, add a splash of stock or water to help loosen it up.
Variation of Broccoli Cheddar Soup
There are many delightful variations of Broccoli Cheddar Soup that you can explore to match your personal tastes.
Add Proteins: Consider adding cooked chicken or diced ham for an extra boost of protein. These additions can make your soup even heartier.
Vegetable Medley: Feel free to mix in other vegetables! Sweet corn, peas, or even spinach can enhance the nutritional profile and flavor.
Spicy Version: If you love a good kick, add more cayenne pepper or even jalapeño to bring in some heat.
Cauliflower Blend: For a unique twist, try blending in some cauliflower with the broccoli. It adds to the creaminess and nutritional value.
Herbed Variation: Infuse your soup with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile that compliments the cheese.
The versatility of Broccoli Cheddar Soup allows you to experiment and find your perfect combination!
FAQ about Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the half-and-half and cheese with dairy-free alternatives. There are great plant-based cheese options and non-dairy creamers that can provide a similar creaminess.
How can I make my Broccoli Cheddar Soup thicker?
To thicken your soup, consider adding more flour or blending some of the soup with an immersion blender. You can also use less liquid when cooking.
What can I do with leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Aside from freezing it for later use, you can also incorporate it into casseroles or use it as a sauce over pasta for a delicious twist.
Is Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
How can I ensure my Broccoli Cheddar Soup is very cheesy?
Use a high-quality cheddar cheese and add it gradually as you melt. This ensures a creamy, cheesy texture in every bowl!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- a pinch cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups vegetable stock or chicken stock
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 3 cups broccoli florets and tender stems, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, shredded
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- In a large soup pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken stock and half-and-half, increasing the heat to medium-high until it reaches a gentle boil.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and add the broccoli and shredded carrots. Partially cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the veggies are tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
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