This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting bowl of goodness. Packed with tender broccoli and melted cheddar cheese, it’s both rich and flavorful!
Let’s face it, cheese makes everything better! I love enjoying this soup with some crusty bread—perfect for dipping and soaking up all that cheesy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh is best, but frozen broccoli can also work well—just adjust cooking time. I often use a mix of both for the texture and color contrast!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a fantastic flavor. If you want to switch it up, try a mix of mild cheddar and Gruyère for a creamier taste.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian version. For an even richer flavor, homemade broth can bring great depth to the soup!
Half-and-Half: You can use whole milk for a lighter soup or heavy cream for extra richness. I sometimes use evaporated milk for a creamy texture without too much fat.
Bacon: It’s optional. For a vegetarian twist, try fried shallots or crispy chickpeas for a crunchy topping!
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture?
The texture of the soup truly makes it comforting. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with a roux! Whisking the flour into the butter and onion mix thickens the soup. Don’t rush; cook it for about 2 minutes without browning.
- When adding the liquid, do it slowly while whisking. This helps prevent lumps.
- An immersion blender is key if you want a smoother soup. Blend to your liking, leaving some broccoli chunks for added texture.
- Finally, stir cheese in at low heat until melted perfectly. High heat can make cheese clump.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a wonderfully creamy soup every time!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional, for garnish)
- Extra cheddar cheese, shredded (for garnish)
- Fresh black pepper and paprika, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious broccoli cheddar soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant—this adds such great flavor!
2. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour into the pot and stir constantly with a whisk to form a smooth roux. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste, but be careful not to let it brown.
3. Add the Liquids:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the half-and-half or milk. Keep whisking to ensure everything blends well—this will help avoid lumps!
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Now it’s time to add the chopped broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook until the broccoli is tender, about 10-12 minutes. The vibrant green color will brighten up your kitchen!
5. Blend the Soup:
If you like your soup a bit smoother, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your preferred texture. You can leave some broccoli chunks for extra texture; it’s up to you!
6. Add the Cheese:
Lower the heat and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely for that creamy deliciousness. Taste the soup and season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg, if you’re using it.
7. Serve with Style:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with extra shredded cheddar, some broccoli florets, and crumbled bacon if you’re feeling indulgent. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh black pepper and paprika for a little kick and color!
This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is perfect for a cozy meal and pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread. Enjoy your creation!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe! Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup to maintain the right texture.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. This will still give you a rich flavor without meat products!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve. You might want to add a little extra cheese or cream to refresh it!
