Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up with this creamy and cheesy broccoli cheddar soup that is perfect for chilly days.
This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, creating a comforting dish that warms the soul. Perfect as a starter or a main course!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
- Loaded with nutritious broccoli for a health boost
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
The Perfect Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite like a bowl of warm, creamy broccoli cheddar soup to lift your spirits. This recipe is designed to provide you with a satisfying meal that combines comfort and nutrition. The rich flavors of cheddar cheese meld beautifully with the fresh taste of broccoli, creating a dish that warms you from the inside out.
This soup is not just about taste; it's also about nourishment. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals, making this dish a healthy choice for you and your family. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra greens while indulging in the delightful cheesiness that everyone loves.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best things about this broccoli cheddar soup is how quick and simple it is to make. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, hearty soup ready to serve. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights when you need a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, even novice cooks can master this recipe. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this soup is sure to impress without the stress. Just follow the straightforward steps, and you'll have a comforting dish that everyone will love.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing this broccoli cheddar soup with some crusty bread or a light salad. A warm baguette or buttery rolls are perfect for dipping, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to each bite. Alternatively, a fresh green salad can provide a crisp contrast to the creamy soup, making for a well-rounded meal.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to your bowl. This adds a delightful kick that complements the richness of the cheese and the earthiness of the broccoli.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Broccoli and Broth
Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. For a creamier texture, you can blend it in batches in a regular blender.
Stir in Cheese and Cream
Return the blended soup to the pot, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is hot.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Enjoy your homemade broccoli cheddar soup with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top!
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To make your soup even more flavorful, consider roasting the broccoli before adding it to the pot. This will enhance the natural sweetness and add a deeper flavor profile to your soup. Simply toss the broccoli florets with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until slightly charred before incorporating them into the soup.
Using freshly grated cheddar cheese will yield the best results. Pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your soup. Grating your cheese from a block ensures a smooth melt and a creamier consistency throughout the dish.
Storing and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers, this broccoli cheddar soup stores beautifully. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or cream when reheating to restore its creamy texture. This soup is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but it may affect the texture slightly.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegan cheese.
→ Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Carrots, cauliflower, or even spinach can be great additions.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Warm up with this creamy and cheesy broccoli cheddar soup that is perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. For a creamier texture, you can blend it in batches in a regular blender.
Return the blended soup to the pot, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is hot.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 12g