Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A warm and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup that is perfect for chilly days. This creamy soup is loaded with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia. With its creamy texture and rich cheese flavor, it's a dish that everyone loves. Ideal for lunch or dinner, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, cheesy flavor that warms your soul
- Nutritious broccoli packed with vitamins
- Creamy texture that satisfies your cravings
- Quick and easy to prepare for any weeknight meal
A Classic Comfort Food
Broccoli Cheddar Soup has stood the test of time as a beloved classic in many homes. Its creamy, cheesy goodness provides not just warmth but also a delightful flavor that can brighten even the coldest of days. This soup is more than just a dish; it's an experience that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. Whether served as a starter or a main course, it never fails to satisfy.
The combination of fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar creates a perfect harmony of taste and texture. The broccoli adds a nutritious element, while the cheese brings richness and depth to the soup. Together, they create a bowl of comfort that’s not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual dinner party, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or preparing a comforting lunch, this recipe fits the bill. It can be served alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Moreover, this soup is easy to customize to your taste. You can add additional vegetables like carrots or potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition, or spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. This adaptability ensures that the soup can cater to different palates and dietary preferences, making it a go-to recipe in any kitchen.
Make Ahead and Store
One of the best features of Broccoli Cheddar Soup is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare this soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Simply reheat it on the stove, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to go whenever you need it, without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Instructions
Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, 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, or until the broccoli is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot, optionally garnished with additional cheese or croutons.
Enjoy your homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup with some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a few simple garnishes can elevate your dish. A sprinkle of freshly grated cheddar cheese on top adds a delicious touch and enhances the visual appeal. You can also add a swirl of heavy cream for a rich finish or toss in some homemade croutons for added crunch and texture.
Pair the soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad to create a balanced meal. A toasted baguette or a warm sourdough loaf complements the soup beautifully, allowing you to soak up every last drop of that creamy goodness.
Nutritional Benefits
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delightful to the taste buds but also packed with nutritional benefits. Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins, including Vitamin C and K, and provides fiber that supports digestive health. The addition of cheese provides calcium and protein, making this soup a hearty option that can keep you full and satisfied.
Moreover, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth makes this soup suitable for vegetarians and adds an additional layer of flavor without overpowering the main ingredients. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diets without sacrificing taste.
Cooking Tips
For the best flavor, opt for fresh broccoli instead of frozen. Fresh broccoli retains more nutrients and offers a brighter flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup. Additionally, when sautéing the onions and garlic, allow them to become translucent to release their natural sweetness, which will deepen the flavor of the soup.
If you’re using a regular blender instead of an immersion blender, be cautious when blending hot liquids. Allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it to the blender, and blend in small batches to avoid spills. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture without any mess.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the soup.
→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegan cheese to make it dairy-free.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A warm and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup that is perfect for chilly days. This creamy soup is loaded with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
Created by: Megan Douglas
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, 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, or until the broccoli is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot, optionally garnished with additional cheese or croutons.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 12g