Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave something cozy. Loaded with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and rich flavors, this soup is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Pair it with crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Melt Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Make the Roux
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
Step 3: Add Broth and Vegetables
- Add Broth: Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth until smooth.
- Add Broccoli and Carrots: Add the broccoli florets, grated carrots, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Step 4: Blend and Add Dairy
- Blend the Soup: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup until creamy, or transfer half of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Add Half-and-Half: Stir in the half-and-half or whole milk, and let the soup heat through without boiling.
Step 5: Add Cheese
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and the soup is smooth. If using, stir in the Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve: Serve the soup warm with a garnish of additional grated cheese or fresh parsley, if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is preferred, but frozen broccoli works just as well. Make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the broccoli is tender.
- Cheese: Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may affect the texture of the soup.
- Blending: Blending part of the soup creates a nice creamy texture while still leaving some broccoli pieces for added texture.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy version of the soup.
- Loaded Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon and a dollop of sour cream for a loaded version of this classic soup.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with olive oil, use plant-based milk and cheese, and opt for vegetable broth to make a vegan version of this soup.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping.
- Bread Bowl: For an extra special presentation, serve the soup in a bread bowl.
- Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit more broth or milk if needed to adjust the consistency.
Can I Freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup, but note that the texture may change slightly due to the dairy. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Type of Cheese Works Best?
Sharp cheddar cheese works best for its bold flavor, but you can also mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for added depth of flavor.
How Do I Thicken the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux or reduce the amount of broth slightly. Blending more of the soup will also make it creamier and thicker.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year. The combination of tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and rich flavors makes this soup a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare and incredibly delicious, whether served on its own or paired with a side of bread or salad. Gather your ingredients, cook with love, and enjoy a warm bowl of this classic comfort food!
Happy Cooking!
