The aroma of rich, creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup wafts through the air, enveloping your senses like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Picture this: velvety cheese melting into vibrant green broccoli, creating a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug. Each spoonful is a delightful dance of flavors, with hints of garlic and onion bringing it all to life.
Now, let me take you back to childhood when my mom used to whip up this scrumptious soup for dinner. I remember sneaking spoonfuls before it hit the table, eagerly devouring the cheesy goodness as if it were gold. This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is perfect for those brisk evenings when you need something hearty and soul-soothing. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have you dreaming of second helpings!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is not just easy to prepare; it’s a family favorite that pleases everyone at the table
- The rich flavors blend perfectly, making it a comforting dish that warms your heart
- Its bright green color and creamy texture are visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests
- Enjoy it as a standalone meal or as an appetizer for any occasion!
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Broccoli: Use about 4 cups of florets; fresh broccoli offers vibrant flavor and wonderful texture in the soup.
- Onion: A medium onion adds depth and sweetness; chop it finely for even cooking.
- Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic enhance the savory notes; fresh garlic works best for maximum flavor.
- Butter: Use about 4 tablespoons; butter adds richness and helps sauté your veggies to perfection.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth: About 4 cups creates the soup base; choose low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness.
- Heavy Cream: One cup gives the soup its creamy texture; feel free to use half-and-half for lighter options.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: About 2 cups provides that gooey cheese factor we all crave; opt for sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent—about five minutes should do the trick. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Broccoli
Stir in the fresh broccoli florets along with some salt and pepper to taste. Cook everything together for about three minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Pour in Broth
Pour in your vegetable or chicken broth, ensuring all veggies are submerged. Bring this delightful concoction to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about ten minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Once your broccoli is nice and soft, it’s time to blend! Use an immersion blender directly in the pot (or transfer carefully to a regular blender) until smooth. If you prefer some chunks of broccoli for texture, blend just half.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Return your pot to low heat if needed, then stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese gradually until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Ladle your warm broccoli cheddar soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese or some crispy croutons on top if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every spoonful while reminiscing about those cozy evenings from childhood.
This creamy delight not only warms you up but also brings smiles around the dinner table—perfect moments await!
You Must Know
- This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is creamy, cheesy, and downright comforting
- It’s perfect for chilly nights and pairs beautifully with crusty bread
- Plus, it’s simple to make and can be customized to suit your taste buds or dietary needs
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the ideal bowl of broccoli cheddar soup, start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then add chopped broccoli and broth, simmering until tender. Finally, stir in cheese until it melts into a creamy delight.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for Gruyère or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You can also toss in some cooked chicken or bacon bits for extra protein. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or separation.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup before adding cheese
- Always taste before serving; you might want to adjust seasoning
- If your soup is too thick, add extra broth or milk to reach your desired consistency
The first time I made this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe, my friends devoured it faster than I could say “seconds, anyone?” Their happy faces were all the feedback I needed!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for the Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe?
To make a delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you will need fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, milk or cream, butter, and seasoning like salt and pepper. You can also include flour to thicken the soup if desired. Fresh ingredients ensure a vibrant flavor and creamy texture that elevates this comforting dish.
How long does it take to prepare the Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe?
Preparing the Broccoli Cheddar Soup typically takes around 10 minutes for chopping vegetables and about 20-30 minutes for cooking. This means you can enjoy a warm bowl of soup in less than an hour. The quick prep time makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal with family.
Can I make the Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare the Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time. In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.
Is the Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! The Broccoli Cheddar Soup freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or microwave.
Conclusion for Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe:
In conclusion, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking comfort food that’s both delicious and nutritious. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll have a wholesome meal ready in no time. Whether enjoyed fresh or as leftovers, this creamy soup is sure to please your palate and warm your soul. Don’t hesitate to customize it with additional spices or toppings to make it uniquely yours!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar into a creamy, soul-soothing bowl. This easy recipe not only warms your heart but also fills your home with a delightful aroma. Each spoonful delivers a perfect balance of flavors, enhanced by garlic and onions, making it ideal for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal or paired with crusty bread, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you dreaming of second helpings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add broccoli florets, salt, and pepper. Cook together for about 3 minutes.
- Pour in broth, ensuring veggies are submerged. Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Blend the mixture using an immersion blender until smooth (or transfer to a regular blender).
- Return to low heat and stir in cream and cheese gradually until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese or croutons if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
