Irresistible Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

There’s something utterly delightful about a steaming bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup. Imagine the smooth, velvety texture dancing on your tongue, while the rich, cheesy aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and pulling you in for that first bite. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day or an invitation to cozy up with a book and your favorite blanket.

Now, picture this: it was one of those dreary winter afternoons when my grandmother decided to whip up her famous creamy broccoli cheddar soup. The kitchen filled with laughter and chatter, as the sweet scent of melted cheese blended perfectly with fresh broccoli. That moment remains etched in my memory, reminding me that some recipes are not just food but stories waiting to be shared around the table.

Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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

• Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for the best flavor and nutrients; they should be firm without yellowing.

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for high-quality sharp cheddar; it melts beautifully and adds a robust flavor to the soup.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop finely for even cooking in the base of your soup.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide depth; crush them just before adding for maximum flavor.

• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium vegetable broth for a balanced flavor; feel free to substitute with chicken broth if preferred.

• Heavy Cream: This ingredient brings a luxurious creaminess; you can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative.

• Butter: Unsalted butter enhances flavor without adding extra salt; it’s essential for sautéing veggies.

• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; these staples elevate all the other flavors in your soup.

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

How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Base

In a large pot over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broccoli

Toss in chopped broccoli florets into the pot with the sautéed mixture. Stir well and cook for about five minutes until slightly tender.

Step 3: Pour in Broth

Add four cups of vegetable broth to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about ten minutes until broccoli is fork-tender.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring to a regular blender), puree the soup until it’s silky smooth. If you prefer some chunks, pulse gently.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Return the blended soup to low heat, then stir in one cup of heavy cream followed by two cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Taste your creamy masterpiece! Add salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or croutons for dipping pleasure.

Transfer to bowls, sprinkle some extra cheese on top if you’re feeling fancy, and prepare for compliments from family or guests! Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting bowl of goodness!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, add broccoli and broth, cooking until tender. Blend until smooth, stir in cheese gradually to achieve that ultimate creamy texture. Finish with seasoning for an unforgettable dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out broccoli for cauliflower or add in some carrots for extra sweetness. Spice it up with a dash of cayenne or experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your creamy broccoli cheddar soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Sometimes, I whip up this creamy broccoli cheddar soup when friends come over, and their smiles say it all—it’s like they’ve found their happy place in a bowl!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

To make a delicious creamy broccoli cheddar soup, you will need fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, heavy cream, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Optional ingredients include carrots for sweetness and nutmeg for added flavor. Gather these items before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process.

How long does Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup last in the fridge?

Creamy broccoli cheddar soup can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to cool it down before refrigerating. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. However, note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Can I make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthier?

Yes! To make your creamy broccoli cheddar soup healthier, consider using low-fat milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a lighter cheese option. Adding more vegetables like spinach or kale can boost the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.

How can I thicken my Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

If your creamy broccoli cheddar soup is too thin, there are several ways to thicken it up. You can blend a portion of the soup until smooth and then stir it back into the pot. Alternatively, adding a cornstarch slurry or using mashed potatoes can help achieve your desired consistency without losing flavor.

Conclusion for Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup :

Creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting dish that combines fresh broccoli with rich cheddar cheese for a delightful experience. By selecting quality ingredients and following simple steps, anyone can create this delicious meal at home. Remember to store leftovers properly and explore healthier variations if desired. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients!

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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Creamy broccoli cheddar soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or cozy nights. This rich and velvety soup features tender broccoli combined with sharp cheddar cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will warm your heart. Quick and easy to prepare, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crispy croutons, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Indulge in this creamy goodness and bring joy to your table!

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Ingredients

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• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
2. Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes until the broccoli is fork-tender.
4. Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or transfer in batches to a regular blender.
5. Return the soup to low heat, stirring in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper as needed, then serve hot with your favorite garnishes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 65mg