Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutritious broccoli. This recipe is perfect for those cold, cozy nights when all you need is a hearty bowl of soup to warm you up. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make, ready in just 35 minutes! Follow this simple guide to create a delicious homemade soup that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup
There are plenty of reasons why this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a must-try:
- Quick and Easy: It’s ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of cheddar cheese and cream makes this soup luxuriously thick and flavorful.
- Nutritious: Loaded with fresh broccoli, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of veggies.
- Customizable: Adjust the flavors and toppings to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads of broccoli)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Crusty bread or croutons for serving (optional)
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make Broccoli Cheddar Soup in just 35 minutes:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets. Set aside.
- Finely chop the onion and garlic.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Add the Liquid:
- Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add the milk and heavy cream, and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Broccoli:
- Stir in the broccoli florets and let them cook for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
- Blend the Soup:
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only a portion of the soup and leave some broccoli florets whole.
- Add the Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Season with smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or croutons. Garnish with additional shredded cheese, if desired.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheddar cheese make a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Shred Your Cheese: For the creamiest soup, shred your cheddar cheese at home instead of using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Don’t Boil the Soup: Keep the soup at a gentle simmer to avoid curdling the milk and cream.
- Customize the Texture: Blend the soup to your desired consistency – fully smooth or slightly chunky.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is versatile and pairs well with several sides:
- Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or a baguette is perfect for dipping.
- Side Salad: A light green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese: Pair the soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.
Health Benefits of Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This soup isn’t just delicious – it’s also packed with nutrients:
- Rich in Vitamins: Broccoli is high in vitamins C and K, which support immunity and bone health.
- High in Calcium: The cheddar cheese and milk provide a good dose of calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Antioxidants: Broccoli contains powerful antioxidants that promote overall health and wellness.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
- What can I use instead of cheddar cheese? Try other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutritious broccoli, it’s a dish that everyone will enjoy. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an ideal recipe for busy nights or when you’re craving something comforting and delicious. Try it today and see how easy it is to make your own homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup!