Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. This rich and creamy soup is an easy go-to recipe that blends the delightful flavors of fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese. Whether you serve it in a sourdough bread bowl or alongside crusty bread for dipping, this soup will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this soup is a breeze to whip up for lunch or dinner.
• Creamy and delicious: The combination of cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli creates a rich and satisfying flavor that everyone loves.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as a standalone meal, or pair it with sandwiches or salads for a complete dining experience.
• Kid-friendly: Packed with nutrients and cheesy goodness, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Easily customizable: Feel free to add other ingredients like carrots or potatoes for an extra twist on this classic dish.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Whisk
• Chopping knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing ample space for bubbling ingredients.
• Whisk: A whisk helps in smoothly combining flour with butter, ensuring there are no lumps in your roux.
• Chopping knife: A good knife makes prepping your vegetables quick and easy, leading to faster cooking times.

Ingredients

A deliciously cozy recipe for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. We love serving it in a sourdough bread bowl or with a side of crusty bread for dipping. This soup is the ultimate comfort food!

For the Base

• 5 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ onion (chopped)
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken stock

For the Vegetables

• 1 celery stalk (finely diced)
• 2½ cups broccoli (chopped into bite-sized pieces)

For Creaminess

• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

• 1 cup shredded cheddar

How to Make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Melt Butter and Sauté Onions

Place a large pot over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sweat it for about 5 minutes until it’s soft.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly, and cook it for about 2 minutes until it’s lightly golden.

Step 3: Add Chicken Stock

Stir in the chicken stock while seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables

Add in the finely diced celery and chopped broccoli. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in Milk

Pour in the whole milk and continue simmering until the soup thickens slightly—about 2 to 3 minutes. The soup should still have its soupy texture.

Step 6: Melt Cheese

Remove the pot from heat. Gradually stir in cheddar cheese by small handfuls, allowing each addition to melt before adding more.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

Season again with salt and pepper if desired, then top with additional shredded cheddar before serving. Enjoy your delicious Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish.

In a Sourdough Bread Bowl

• A sourdough bread bowl adds a rustic charm. The tangy flavor of the bread complements the creamy soup beautifully.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. This adds texture and enhances the overall meal.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional cheddar on top just before serving. It melts into the hot soup, making it even more indulgent.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives gives a burst of color and freshness. It also enhances the flavor profile.

Served with a Side Salad

• A light salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette.

Accompanied by Crackers

• Serve with crispy crackers for extra crunch. Choose whole grain or herb-flavored crackers for added taste.

How to Perfect Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the perfect Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out great every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheddar enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust Thickness: If your soup is too thick, add more milk or stock until you reach your desired consistency.
• Melt Cheese Gradually: Stir in cheese in small batches, allowing each handful to melt fully before adding more.
• Season Generously: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your preferences for a well-balanced flavor.
• Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling once you add milk to prevent curdling; simmer gently for best results.
• Blend for Smoothness: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before adding back the veggies.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic choice that complements the soup’s creaminess perfectly.
2. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a nice contrast to the warm soup.
3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds flavor and is perfect for dipping into the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional nutrition and flavor to the table.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with grains, beans, or meat for a hearty side that pairs well.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer another comforting element alongside your soup.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light option packed with protein that balances the richness of the cheddar.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse your palate after each spoonful of rich soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking broccoli and celery too long can make them mushy. To prevent this, simmer just until tender.
• Skipping the cheese melting process: Adding all the cheese at once may lead to clumps. Instead, add it in small handfuls, allowing it to melt gradually.
• Using low-quality cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Choose a good quality cheddar for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your soup bland. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

Can I make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version without losing flavor.

How do I make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.

What kind of cheese is best for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Sharp cheddar cheese works best for flavor and melting qualities. You can also try mixing in Gruyère or Monterey Jack.

Can I add other vegetables to Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Absolutely! Carrots or cauliflower can complement broccoli well. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also versatile, making it perfect for any meal. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite!

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Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This delightful recipe combines fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese into a rich, creamy blend that’s perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this heartwarming dish that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or is served in a sourdough bread bowl. Whether you’re enjoying it as a standalone meal or alongside your favorite sandwiches and salads, this soup promises to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Plus, it’s easily customizable, making it a hit for everyone at the table, including picky eaters.

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Ingredients

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• 5 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ onion (chopped)
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 celery stalk (finely diced)
• 2½ cups broccoli (chopped)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Gradually stir in chicken stock, seasoning with salt and pepper until smooth.
4. Add diced celery and chopped broccoli; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 15 minutes.
5. Stir in milk and simmer until slightly thickened (2-3 minutes).
6. Off heat, gradually mix in cheddar cheese until melted.
7. Season to taste before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 60mg