Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Simple and Delicious Recipe

If you crave comfort food, creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a must-try! This simple and delicious recipe combines rich flavors and smooth texture that warms the soul. You only need a few ingredients and a step-by-step guide to make it perfect. Whether you’re a beginner or a skilled cook, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up this tasty dish. Let’s dive in and start cooking!

Ingredients

Complete List of Ingredients

To make creamy broccoli cheddar soup, you will need:

– 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 3 cups vegetable broth

– 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer taste)

– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional)

Recommended Tools and Equipment

Gather these tools for a smooth cooking process:

– A large, heavy-bottomed pot

– A wooden spoon for stirring

– An immersion blender or a countertop blender

– Measuring cups and spoons

– A cutting board and knife

These tools make the cooking process easier and more enjoyable.

Nutritional Information

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup serves four. Each serving contains:

– Calories: Approximately 300

– Protein: 12g

– Carbohydrates: 22g

– Fat: 18g

– Fiber: 3g

– Sodium: Varies based on broth and added salt

This soup offers a comforting meal rich in flavor and nutrients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

Start by melting 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Wait until it foams. Then, add 1 medium diced onion. Cook it for about 5 minutes. Stir often until the onion is soft and clear. Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook this for one more minute. You want the garlic to smell good but not brown.

Now, sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Stir constantly to mix it well. This forms a roux. Cook it for about 2 minutes. The flour should be lightly golden. This base adds a rich flavor.

Cooking the Broccoli

Slowly pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth. Whisk it well to avoid lumps. Turn up the heat a bit and let it simmer gently. Once it starts to bubble, add 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Let this cook for about 10 minutes. The broccoli should get tender and bright green. This step gives the soup its fresh taste.

Blending and Adding the Cheese

After cooking, it’s time to blend. Use an immersion blender to mix the soup until it’s smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully pour the soup into a regular blender. Blend it in batches to get a silky texture.

Return the soup to the pot if you used a regular blender. Stir in 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of finely grated sharp cheddar cheese. Heat this over low heat. Keep stirring until the cheese melts. This makes the soup rich and creamy.

Finally, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg if you like. Taste it and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Now, your creamy broccoli cheddar soup is ready to serve!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture

To get that perfect creamy soup, start with a good roux. Mix flour with butter and cook it until golden. This gives the soup a nice base. Use an immersion blender for a smooth texture. If you don’t have one, you can blend the soup in batches. Add milk or heavy cream slowly while stirring. This helps the cheese melt in nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One mistake is cooking the garlic too long. It can turn bitter. Another mistake is not whisking the broth in slowly. This can create lumps in your soup. Also, don’t skip seasoning. A little salt and pepper can bring out the flavors. Lastly, avoid overcooking the broccoli. It should be tender but still bright green.

Serving Suggestions for the Best Experience

Serve the soup hot in beautiful bowls. Top it with extra cheddar for a cheesy finish. Add a few fresh broccoli florets for color. Drizzle with olive oil for a gourmet touch. Pair it with crusty bread for a hearty meal. You can also offer a side salad for freshness. Enjoy your creamy broccoli cheddar soup!

Variations

Dietary Substitutions (Vegan, Gluten-Free)

You can easily make this soup vegan. Use plant-based butter and almond or oat milk. For cheese, try vegan cheese shreds. This keeps the creamy texture and flavor while being dairy-free. If you need a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. This keeps your soup thick and tasty.

Flavor Variations (Spicy, Herb-Infused)

To add some heat, toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This gives the soup a warm kick. For an herb-infused twist, mix in fresh thyme or rosemary. These herbs add depth and a lovely aroma. You can also squeeze in some fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Ingredient Swaps (Different Cheeses, Additional Veggies)

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyère or mozzarella can give a unique taste. You can also add more veggies, such as carrots or cauliflower. Just chop them small so they cook evenly. Adding a handful of spinach near the end boosts nutrition and color.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers is simple. First, let your soup cool to room temperature. Then, pour it into airtight containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion. Seal the containers tightly. You can store the soup in the fridge for up to four days.

Freezing and Reheating Tips

If you want to freeze the soup, use freezer-safe containers. Divide the soup into portions for easy thawing later. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Stir often to keep the texture smooth. If it seems too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.

Shelf Life of Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

The shelf life of your creamy broccoli cheddar soup is about four days in the fridge. In the freezer, it can last for three months. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. Keeping your soup stored well helps maintain its fresh taste and creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Frozen broccoli cooks faster than fresh. Just add it to the pot during the simmering step. It will blend into the soup well, keeping the flavor rich.

How can I make this soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, you have a few options:

– Add more flour: Mix in a bit more flour when making the roux.

– Use less broth: Start with less vegetable broth for a creamier base.

– Blend more: Blend the soup longer to create a thicker texture.

– Add potato: Cook and blend in a peeled potato for natural thickness.

What are some good side dishes to serve with broccoli cheddar soup?

Here are some tasty side dishes to consider:

– Crusty bread: A nice loaf of bread pairs well with the soup.

– Salad: A light green salad adds freshness to your meal.

– Grilled cheese: This classic combo makes for a comforting meal.

– Savory scones: Cheese or herb scones bring a delightful twist.

These sides enhance the comfort of the creamy broccoli cheddar soup. Enjoy your meal!

This blog post covered how to make creamy broccoli cheddar soup from start to finish. You learned about the ingredients, tools, and nutritional information needed. I shared handy tips to get that perfect creamy texture and how to avoid common mistakes. We also explored variations to fit different diets and ways to store leftovers.

In closing, making this soup at home is fun and rewarding. With these steps and tips, you’ll enjoy a tasty meal that can please everyon