Name: Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 small onion (chopped); 1 medium carrot (chopped); 1 stalk celery (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup fat free milk; 1.25 cups shredded sharp cheddar; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cups less sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 0.25 teaspoons kosher salt; to taste fresh black pepper; 6 cups broccoli florets (chopped into small pieces, about 2 heads); 3 tablespoons flour (AP, whole wheat or gluten-free flour)

Introduction to Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli cheddar soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering a warm, creamy embrace that can turn any ordinary day into a special occasion. This delightful dish is not only rich in flavor but also packs a nutritional punch with vibrant broccoli packed with vitamins. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese melting into a velvety broth creates a harmony of tastes and textures that warms the heart and soul.

What makes this soup a staple in many households is its satisfying nature and versatility. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or as a quick lunch that refreshes you midday. Plus, it's an easy dish to whip up, requiring minimal ingredients and time. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, broccoli is an excellent source of Vitamin C, which is vital for boosting your immune system.

If you’re looking to impress friends or soothe a craving, this richly flavored broccoli cheddar soup could become your go-to recipe. Whether served alone or paired with a crusty bread, this soup consistently delivers comfort and joy, inviting you to savor each bite and share it with loved ones. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe!

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Essential ingredients for a creamy soup

Creating the perfect broccoli cheddar soup begins with a handful of essential ingredients that work together to produce that rich, creamy texture we all love. Here's what you'll need:

1 small onion, chopped: Adds depth and sweetness.
1 medium carrot, chopped: Provides a subtle earthiness and color.
1 celery stalk, chopped: Brings freshness and balances the flavors.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers an aromatic punch.
2 tablespoons butter: Richness is key in a creamy soup!
3 tablespoons flour: This helps thicken your soup to perfection.
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The base for all those delicious flavors.
1 cup fat-free milk: For creaminess without too many calories.
6 cups broccoli florets: The star of the show!

Optional ingredients for extra flavor

Want to take your broccoli cheddar soup to another level? Consider adding these optional ingredients for an extra flavor boost:

1-¼ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The classic choice for a reason.
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nice umami kick.
Fresh black pepper, to taste: A little spice can make all the difference.
A sprinkle of nutmeg: This warm spice enhances the creaminess.

Feel free to get creative! Consider adding some sautéed turkey bacon or chicken ham for a smoky twist. Adapting the recipe to your taste will make it truly your own. For more tips, check out this guide on building flavors!

Now that you know the essential and optional ingredients, you'll be well on your way to whipping up a batch of comforting broccoli cheddar soup that's perfect for any occasion!

Preparing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to organize your kitchen. For this savory and creamy broccoli cheddar soup, make sure you have all the ingredients ready to go. You’ll need:

1 small onion (chopped)
1 medium carrot (chopped)
1 celery stalk (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour (AP, whole wheat, or gluten-free)
3 cups less sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1 cup fat-free milk
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Fresh black pepper (to taste)
6 cups broccoli florets (about 2 heads of broccoli)
1-¼ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

A well-stocked kitchen makes the cooking process so much easier and more enjoyable. Plus, it’ll save time later on!

Sauté the Vegetables

To kick things off, melt your butter in a Dutch oven over low heat. Once the butter begins to foam, add in your chopped onion, carrot, and celery, along with salt and pepper. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes until they become tender. This step is crucial because the flavors developed in this mix will form the foundation of your soup. (Need tips on cutting veggies? Check out this guide on slicing techniques.)

Create the Roux for Thickness

After your veggies are perfectly sautéed, it’s time to thicken the soup. Sprinkle in your flour and stir continuously for about two minutes until the mix, known as a roux, forms a paste-like consistency. This step eliminates the raw flour taste and readies your soup for its creamy transformation.

Add the Broth and Broccoli

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking as you go to avoid any lumps. Next, add the milk and raise the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once you see bubbles, throw in those vibrant broccoli florets and the Parmesan cheese. As everything simmers, adjust your salt and pepper to taste. Cook uncovered for around 10 minutes, allowing the broccoli to soften while maintaining its signature bite.

Blend for Texture

Here comes the fun part! Using an immersion blender, blend the soup for just a few seconds. This creates a lovely texture—smooth yet still chunky. If you don’t have an immersion blender, scoop out 1-2 cups of soup to blend in a regular blender, then stir it back into the pot. This helps achieve that beloved creamy consistency without losing the broccoli goodness.

Stir in the Cheese

Finally, the grand finale: adding the cheese! Gently stir in your shredded sharp cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely into your warm soup. The cheese adds depth and a delightful richness that truly defines this broccoli cheddar soup. Serve hot, topped with extra cheddar if you’re feeling indulgent!

By breaking down these steps, cooking broccoli cheddar soup becomes a delightful and satisfying experience—perfect for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy!

Variations of Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Vegan Version Using Plant-Based Cheese

Looking for a delicious and creamy alternative to traditional broccoli cheddar soup? Try a vegan twist! Substitute dairy cheese with your favorite plant-based cheese. Brands like Daiya or Violife melt beautifully and provide that satisfying cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can also use coconut milk for creaminess and nutritional yeast for a cheesy kick. This way, everyone can savor the rich flavors without compromising dietary preferences.

Add-ins Like Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham

Elevate your broccoli cheddar soup by adding savory ingredients like turkey bacon or chicken ham. These options introduce a nice texture and a hint of smokiness that complements the creamy soup perfectly. Simply sauté the turkey bacon until crispy and toss it in just before serving. For chicken ham, diced pieces can be mixed in while the soup simmers, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. These little enhancements create a hearty meal, making your soup a true crowd-pleaser.

Cooking tips and notes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Tips for perfecting your soup

For a velvety texture in your broccoli cheddar soup, consider blending part of it as instructed. It enhances creaminess while leaving some chunks for texture. Using sharp cheddar will amplify the cheese flavor, so don’t skip on quality! Lastly, adjust the seasoning gradually. A little salt goes a long way, especially when utilizing broth.

Storage advice for leftovers

If you have soup left over—lucky you! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove to avoid curdling the cheese. Freezing is an option, too; just remember to leave a bit of space in the container for expansion. For more tips on freezing soups, check out this guide.

Serving suggestions for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing with crusty bread

Nothing complements a warm bowl of broccoli cheddar soup quite like a slice of crusty bread. Opt for a freshly baked baguette or a hearty sourdough loaf to soak up every delicious spoonful. Not only does this pairing enhance the flavors, but it also brings a rustic charm to your meal. If you’re in a hurry, a warm and toasty piece of garlic bread can also work its magic!

Garnishing options to enhance presentation

Elevate the look of your broccoli cheddar soup with some simple garnishes. A sprinkle of extra cheddar on top adds richness and appeals to cheese lovers. For a pop of color, try adding a few broccoli florets or a drizzle of olive oil. You might also consider using chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch. These finishing touches not only enhance presentation but also offer a burst of flavor, making each bite a little more special.

Time Breakdown for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only satisfying but also quick. Here’s how your time breaks down:

Preparation Time

In just 20 minutes, you’ll have everything chopped and ready to go. A quick blitz in a food processor can make this even faster!

Cooking Time

Spend about 30 minutes cooking this delightful soup. This includes sautéing your veggies and allowing the broccoli to tenderize while mingling with all those amazing flavors.

Total Time

In a mere 50 minutes, you can serve up a comforting bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a weekday dinner or a cozy weekend lunch!

If you're curious about other variations or tips on how to customize this recipe, check out some of our favorite cooking resources here and here for more ideas!

Nutritional Facts for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Calories per Serving

A generous cup of broccoli cheddar soup serves up 242 calories, making it a hearty yet manageable option for lunch or dinner.

Protein Content

Packed with 12.5 grams of protein, this comforting soup is a great way to add some essential nutrients to your meal while enjoying creamy, cheesy goodness.

Important Vitamins and Minerals

Not only is this soup delicious, but it also delivers vital nutrients thanks to its green star—broccoli! Each serving provides a healthy dose of vitamins C and K, along with calcium from the cheddar cheese. For more on the benefits of broccoli, check out this Nutritional Guide. Plus, the fiber content aids in digestion, contributing to overall wellness.

Feel free to indulge in this warm bowl of broccoli cheddar soup, knowing you're fueling your body with essential vitamins and minerals while enjoying a comforting classic!

FAQs about Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Can I substitute fresh broccoli with frozen?

Absolutely! You can use frozen broccoli in your broccoli cheddar soup without any problem. Just remember that frozen broccoli is usually blanched before freezing, so it will cook faster than fresh. You may need to adjust your cooking time accordingly.

How can I make the soup more spicy?

If you're looking to add a kick to your broccoli cheddar soup, consider these options:

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.
Stir in some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for a fresh heat.
A splash of hot sauce can also elevate the flavors nicely!

What is the best way to store and reheat the soup?

To keep your broccoli cheddar soup fresh:

Storing: Allow the soup to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: You can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of milk to help maintain creaminess. For individual servings, microwaving for 1-2 minutes works well, just remember to cover it!

For more tips on soup storage, you can check out this article on food safety and storage practices.

Conclusion on Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making broccoli cheddar soup at home is a rewarding experience. Not only is it healthier and customizable, but it also brings a warm, comforting feeling to any meal. With simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can enjoy a creamy, delicious soup that delights your taste buds and nourishes your body.

Why make Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home?

Cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients, making it easier to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions. You can choose organic veggies or adjust the cheese to your liking for a healthier twist. Plus, nothing beats the aroma of simmering soup filling your kitchen!

Making broccoli cheddar soup from scratch can also save you money compared to buying pre-made versions. It’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste, as you can use up leftover vegetables.

Find more inspirations for variations, like adding spices or protein like turkey bacon or chicken ham, to keep your dishes exciting! For more recipes, consider visiting sources like EatingWell or New York Times Cooking. Enjoy your cooking adventure!