Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A Cozy Comfort Food Delight

Broccoli cheddar soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings. Imagine rich, creamy textures mingling with the earthy crunch of broccoli and the sharpness of cheddar cheese. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in warmth like your favorite blanket.

This delightful dish often evokes fond memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone together, whether served on a rainy day or at a festive dinner. Anticipate an explosion of flavor that will make your taste buds dance with delight!

Every time I whip up this recipe, my friends can’t help but rave about how creamy and delicious it is!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Broccoli Florets: Choose bright green florets for the best flavor and freshness; frozen works too if you’re in a pinch.

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheese to ensure maximum flavor; grating it yourself makes it melt better.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sautéing until translucent unlocks its rich flavors.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves deliver that aromatic punch; crush them right before cooking for optimal taste.

• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; homemade broth adds an extra layer of flavor.

• Heavy Cream: For that luxurious creaminess; feel free to substitute with half-and-half for lighter options.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance flavor; always adjust according to your taste preference.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent.

Add Broccoli and Broth: Stir in the broccoli florets, allowing them to mingle with the aromatics for about two minutes. Pour in vegetable broth until everything is submerged, bringing it all to a gentle boil.

Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat to low once boiling. Cover and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.

Blend It Up!: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender or use an immersion blender right in the pot. Blend until smooth; this step creates that luscious texture we crave in broccoli cheddar soup.

Add Cheese and Cream: Return the blended soup to low heat, stirring in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Gradually add heavy cream while tasting; adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve with Style!: Ladle the creamy broccoli cheddar soup into bowls, garnishing with extra cheese or crispy croutons if desired. Enjoy immediately while it’s hot!

This recipe not only fills your belly but also warms your heart—a true crowd-pleaser!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add broccoli and broth. Simmer until tender, then blend for a creamy texture before adding cheese.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out broccoli for cauliflower or add cooked chicken for a heartier soup. Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or pepper jack to elevate the flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain creaminess.

Creating this broccoli cheddar soup has brought countless compliments from friends who always ask for seconds, proving that some recipes just hit home.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?

Yes, but fresh broccoli gives better texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

You can use Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a vegan cheese alternative.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent instead of regular flour.

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Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Mia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Broccoli cheddar soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering a creamy, rich texture that envelops your senses. This delightful dish combines fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a flavor explosion that’s perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, this soup is not just delicious but also visually appealing with its vibrant green hue. Enjoy it hot with a side of crispy croutons or as a standalone meal that warms both the body and soul.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
2. Add broccoli florets and stir for two minutes. Pour in vegetable broth until submerged and bring to a gentle boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until broccoli is tender but vibrant.
4. Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or transferring to a regular blender.
5. Return blended soup to low heat, stirring in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Gradually add heavy cream while tasting; adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or crispy croutons if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 660mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 70mg