Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul. This comforting soup not only highlights the fresh taste of broccoli but also boasts a rich, cheesy flavor that appeals to both kids and adults. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup is versatile enough to be served on casual weekdays or at special gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This soup comes together in just 45 minutes, making it a quick option for busy days.
• Flavorful Comfort: The blend of sharp cheddar cheese with fresh broccoli creates a deliciously creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal as a main dish or side, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or homemade croutons.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with vitamins from broccoli, this soup offers both taste and health benefits.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add other vegetables or spices according to your preference!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pot
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly; allows for ample space for all ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps blend the flour and broth smoothly, ensuring no lumps in your soup.

Ingredients

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

Base Ingredients

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

Thickening Agent

• 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

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups Broccoli ((chopped))
• 2 1/2 cups Half-n-Half
• 3 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese ((grated))

Optional Ingredients

• 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes ((optional))
• Garlic Butter Homemade Croutons ((optional))

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add 4 Tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Add onions and carrots, cooking for about 7-8 minutes while stirring often. Finally, add garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 2: Create the Base

Add the remaining 4 Tablespoons of butter. Stir in flour until well combined. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to combine thoroughly. Then add dried mustard powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

Introduce the chopped broccoli and half-n-half into the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes or until the broccoli is softened.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Serve

Gradually add cheese in increments of half a cup, stirring well after each addition to maintain a creamy consistency without graininess. Taste for seasonings and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with homemade garlic butter croutons or buttery crusty bread for dipping!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving Broccoli Cheddar Soup is as enjoyable as making it. This creamy delight can be garnished and paired in many ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Add a dash for a bit of heat if you enjoy a spicy kick.
• Croutons: Top with homemade garlic butter croutons for added crunch and flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping. A baguette or sourdough works beautifully.
• Salad: A light side salad, such as a mixed greens salad, complements the richness of the soup.
• Sandwiches: Grilled cheese or turkey sandwiches make for a hearty lunch alongside your soup.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To ensure your Broccoli Cheddar Soup is both delicious and creamy, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli enhances the flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
• Gradually Add Cheese: Incorporate cheese slowly, mixing well after each addition to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Adjust Thickness: Modify the amount of chicken broth based on your preferred soup thickness; less broth yields a creamier soup.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste the soup during cooking to adjust seasonings for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing your Broccoli Cheddar Soup with delightful sides enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, this buttery bread complements the soup’s creaminess wonderfully.
2. Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice and vegetables, these add substance and are easy to prepare ahead of time.
4. Vegetable Medley: Steamed vegetables like carrots and green beans offer color and nutrition alongside the rich soup.
5. Quiche: A slice of spinach or cheese quiche makes for a savory side that pairs nicely with the flavors of broccoli cheddar.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs deliver a satisfying crunch next to the creamy soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the roux – Not creating a proper roux can lead to a soupy texture. Always melt the butter and mix in the flour before adding liquids.
• Overcooking the broccoli – Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Add it to the pot towards the end of cooking for the best texture.
• Adding cheese too quickly – Dumping all cheese in at once can cause clumping. Add cheese gradually, stirring well after each addition to maintain creaminess.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – It’s crucial to taste your soup throughout cooking. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for balanced flavor.
• Using low-quality cheese – Low-quality cheese may not melt properly or give that rich flavor. Choose a sharp cheddar for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow soup to cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space in containers for expansion as the soup freezes.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls in 1-minute intervals, stirring between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring often until warmed. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy soup made primarily from fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, ideal for cozy meals.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute dairy with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese while using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What goes well with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can serve it with crusty bread, homemade garlic butter croutons, or a side salad for a complete meal.

How do I thicken my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

If you desire a thicker consistency, you can use more flour or cornstarch when making your roux or add blended cooked potatoes.

Can I add other vegetables to Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Absolutely! Carrots, cauliflower, and spinach can be excellent additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste. Try this comforting recipe today!

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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

Indulge in the warmth of creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. This delightful soup combines fresh broccoli with rich, sharp cheddar cheese, creating a creamy texture that appeals to both children and adults. In just under an hour, you can whip up this nutritious recipe that’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to serve as a main dish or alongside crusty bread.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 Tablespoons Butter (divided)
• 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 (if you want a thicker soup, use 2 1/2 cups)
• 1 teaspoon Dried Mustard Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Pepper
• 3 cups Broccoli (chopped)
• 2 1/2 cups Half-n-Half
• 3 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (grated)
• 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• Garlic Butter Homemade Croutons (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add diced onion and carrot; sauté for 7-8 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Incorporate the remaining butter and whisk in flour until combined. Gradually add chicken broth while whisking to eliminate lumps; mix in mustard powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chopped broccoli and half-n-half; simmer for about 20 minutes until broccoli is tender.
4. Slowly stir in grated cheddar cheese in increments, ensuring a smooth consistency. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 60mg