Cozy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe for Chilly Days

A warm bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup is like a cozy hug on a chilly day. The creamy texture and rich, cheesy flavor wrap around your taste buds, making every spoonful a delightful experience.

Picture yourself nestled on the couch, wrapped in a blanket, with this luscious soup steaming in front of you. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday or a busy weekday, this soup makes everything feel just a bit brighter.

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Broccoli: Use about 4 cups of chopped broccoli florets for that vibrant green color and essential nutrients.

• Medium Onion: A diced onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor profile.

• Garlic Cloves: Two minced garlic cloves will infuse your soup with aromatic goodness.

• Unsalted Butter: Approximately 4 tablespoons help create a rich base for our soup.

• All-Purpose Flour: Around 1/4 cup thickens the soup beautifully without clumping.

• Vegetable Broth: Use about 4 cups for that perfect savory note; chicken broth can also work well here.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: About 2 cups of sharp cheddar will make this soup irresistibly cheesy.

• Milk or Plant-Based Milk: Using about 1 cup contributes to that creamy texture; choose your favorite!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent, which should take about five minutes. Toss in the minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook this mixture for about two minutes to achieve a nice light golden color. This roux will thicken your soup perfectly!

Step 3: Add Broth and Broccoli

Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while whisking continuously. Once combined, add in those glorious broccoli florets. Bring everything to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about ten minutes until the broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Blend It Up

For a creamy consistency, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or carefully transfer batches into a traditional blender (be cautious of hot splashes!). Blend until you reach your desired smoothness.

Step 5: Stir in Milk and Cheese

Pour in the milk and stir well before adding shredded cheddar cheese gradually. Keep stirring until all that cheese melts into gooey perfection—a true comfort food moment!

Step 6: Serve It Hot

Ladle your delightful Broccoli Cheddar Soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese or some crushed crackers if you like a little crunch!

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad—perfect for dunking! Enjoy every warm spoonful as it wraps you up like your favorite sweater on a cold day!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add chopped broccoli and broth. Simmer until tender, blend until smooth, and stir in cheese for that velvety finish. Timing is everything for a perfect texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the cheddar for a spicy pepper jack or sprinkle in some nutmeg for an unexpected flavor twist. Add cooked chicken or turkey bits for a heartier meal, or toss in some extra veggies like carrots or cauliflower.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

It was a rainy Sunday when my friends came over, and I decided to whip up this Broccoli Cheddar Soup. The smiles on their faces as they took their first spoonful were priceless; one even declared it “the best soup ever!”

FAQs :

What is the best way to store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

To store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and leave some space for expansion as the soup freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?

Yes, you can easily make Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan by substituting dairy products with plant-based alternatives. Use non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk instead of regular milk. For cheese, opt for a vegan cheese product or nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor without animal products. Ensure that any broth used is vegetable-based, and you will have a delicious vegan version of this comforting soup.

How can I thicken my Broccoli Cheddar Soup without using gelatin?

To thicken your Broccoli Cheddar Soup without using gelatin, consider using cornstarch or flour as a thickening agent. Mix either with a small amount of cold broth or water to create a slurry before adding it to the soup. Alternatively, you can add blended cooked potatoes or additional broccoli florets for a thicker texture. Let the soup simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.

What variations can I try with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can try several delicious variations with Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Adding cooked chicken, turkey, or beef can enhance its heartiness and flavor. You might also include other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for extra nutrients and taste. For a spicy kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Experimenting with different cheeses such as gouda or pepper jack can also provide unique flavor profiles.

Conclusion for Broccoli Cheddar Soup :

In summary, Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a versatile and comforting dish that appeals to many palates. It’s easy to prepare and allows for creative variations based on personal preferences. By substituting ingredients thoughtfully, you can cater to dietary needs while maintaining great taste. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later, this soup remains a satisfying option for any meal occasion. Embrace its creamy texture and rich flavors while exploring new combinations that elevate this classic recipe!

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Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up on chilly days. This creamy, cheesy delight features fresh broccoli and rich cheddar, creating a nourishing and satisfying dish that’s simple to prepare. Ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this versatile soup shines as either an appetizer or a hearty main course. Each spoonful promises a burst of flavor and warmth, making it an essential recipe for any home cook seeking comfort in a bowl.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Sprinkle in the flour while stirring to avoid lumps. Cook for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Gradually whisk in vegetable broth and add chopped broccoli. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for 10 minutes until broccoli is tender.
4. Blend soup using an immersion blender or in batches until smooth.
5. Stir in milk and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or crushed crackers if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 65mg