Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting, delicious dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family dinner or hosting friends, this soup stands out with its rich flavors and creamy texture. It’s an easy recipe that brings warmth to your table, making it ideal for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can whip up this delightful soup in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a light lunch, dinner, or even an appetizer at gatherings; this soup fits many occasions.
• Comforting and Hearty: The creamy texture and warm flavors make it a comforting option on cold days.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite spices or vegetables for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is crucial for cooking all your ingredients together evenly, helping to develop flavors in the soup.
• Whisk: A whisk aids in smoothly combining ingredients like flour with broth, ensuring a creamy consistency without lumps.
• Grater: Using a grater for the cheese allows it to melt quickly and blend seamlessly into the soup.

Ingredients

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup made with fresh broccoli, cream, and sharp cheddar cheese.

For the Base

• 8 Tablespoons Butter (divided)
• 1 large Onion (finely diced)
• 1 large Carrot (shredded or finely diced)
• 3 Garlic Cloves (minced)

For Thickening

• 1/2 cup Flour (or cornstarch)
• 3 cups Chicken Broth (if you want a thicker soup, use 2 1/2 cups)

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon Dried Mustard Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Pepper

For the Main Ingredient

• 3 cups Broccoli (chopped)

For Creaminess

• 2 1/2 cups Half-n-Half

For Flavor

• 3 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (grated)
• 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• Garlic Butter Homemade Croutons (optional)

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add 4 Tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
– Add onions and carrots; cook for about 7-8 minutes while stirring often.
– Incorporate garlic and sauté for 1 additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

Add the remaining 4 Tablespoons of butter to the pot.
– Stir in flour until well mixed.
– Gradually add chicken broth using a whisk to combine thoroughly.
– Season with dried mustard powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Combine Broccoli and Cream

Add chopped broccoli along with half-n-half to the pot.
– Allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes or until broccoli is softened.
– Gradually add cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring well after each addition to maintain creaminess.

Step 4: Final Touches

Taste the soup for seasonings.
– Adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.
– Serve hot with homemade garlic butter croutons or buttery crusty bread for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup, perfect for any meal!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Homemade Croutons

• Garlic Butter Croutons: Add a crunchy texture by topping your soup with crispy homemade croutons tossed in garlic butter.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Artisan Bread: Serve the soup alongside slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the creamy soup beautifully.

With Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, balancing flavors perfectly.

With Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Classic Grilled Cheese: Pair your soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic combination that’s always satisfying.

With Chili Flakes

• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the soup to add an exciting kick.

As a Main Course

• Hearty Meal: Enjoy your Broccoli Cheddar Soup as a main course by adding protein like chicken or bacon for extra heartiness.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out creamy and delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli not only enhances flavor but also contributes to a vibrant color and better texture in your soup.
• Gradual Cheese Addition: Add cheese slowly, half a cup at a time, stirring well after each addition to prevent a grainy texture.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth. Start with 2 1/2 cups instead of 3 cups for a creamier consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasonings like salt and pepper to suit your preference for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this creamy delight.

1. Garlic Bread: A buttery, garlicky treat that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing add freshness that balances the heaviness of the soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or meat provide a hearty side that complements the creamy texture.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and add depth to your meal.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a fun and filling side dish.
6. Quiche Lorraine: A slice of savory quiche offers a delightful contrast in flavors while adding sophistication to your meal.
7. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad dressed with olive oil and lemon provides refreshing notes against the creamy soup.
8. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad can cleanse the palate and adds brightness to the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but small mistakes can impact the flavor and texture. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong cheese: Always choose sharp cheddar for the best flavor. Other cheeses may not provide the same richness.
• Not cooking vegetables enough: Ensure onions, garlic, and carrots are soft before adding broth. This enhances the soup’s base flavor.
• Overcooking broccoli: Add broccoli towards the end of cooking. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose color.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. You might need more salt or pepper to elevate flavors.
• Adding cheese too quickly: Incorporate cheese gradually to maintain a smooth consistency. Adding it all at once can lead to a grainy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Broccoli Cheddar Soup that many home cooks have:

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or homemade croutons for dipping.

How do I thicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can add more flour or cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the soup further while cooking.

Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Absolutely! It freezes well; just make sure to store it in airtight containers.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, comforting, and perfect for any meal of the day. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences—add extra veggies or spices for a unique twist! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a bowl of deliciousness that warms your soul.

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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming you up on cold days or when you’re in need of a soothing meal. This delightful soup features a rich blend of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli, creating a deliciously creamy texture that is both satisfying and nourishing. It’s a quick and easy recipe that requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. Serve it with homemade garlic croutons or crusty bread for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy this classic American dish that brings smiles to every table!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 tablespoons butter
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 1 large carrot, shredded or finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup flour (or cornstarch)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups broccoli, chopped
• 2 1/2 cups half-n-half
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

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Instructions

1. Sauté the onions and carrots in melted butter over medium heat for about 7-8 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Stir in the remaining butter and flour until combined, then gradually whisk in chicken broth. Season with mustard powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chopped broccoli and half-n-half; simmer for around 20 minutes until the broccoli softens. Gradually stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
4. Adjust seasonings to taste before serving hot with optional homemade croutons.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg