This Creamy Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in. Rich, velvety, and packed with veggies, this soup is sure to satisfy. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious bowl of creamy soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base for the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a robust garlic flavor to the soup.
- 4 cups broccoli florets: Adds a fresh, green vegetable base.
- 4 cups cauliflower florets: Adds creaminess and a mild flavor.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Provides the liquid base and enhances the flavor.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess to the soup.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the soup extra rich and creamy.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Adds warmth and depth to the soup.
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese for garnish (optional): Adds extra cheesy goodness.
Instructions: How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Melt the Butter:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli and Cauliflower
- Add the Broccoli and Cauliflower:
- Stir in the 4 cups of broccoli florets and 4 cups of cauliflower florets. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start softening.
- Add the Broth:
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli and cauliflower are tender.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
- Puree the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches. Return the soup to the pot after blending.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Prepare the Flour Mixture:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add the Milk and Cream:
- Slowly whisk in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the Cheese:
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. If using, add 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg for extra warmth.
Step 5: Combine and Season the Soup
- Combine the Soup and Cheese Sauce:
- Pour the cheese sauce into the pot with the pureed soup. Stir well to combine everything into a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Season the Soup:
- Taste the soup and season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Serve the Soup:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with additional black pepper or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Vegetable Options: You can add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra texture and flavor.
- Blending Tip: For a chunkier soup, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
- Make-Ahead Option: This soup can be made a day ahead and reheated when ready to serve.
Variations of Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup
Here are some ways to customize your Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup:
- Bacon Addition: Add cooked, crumbled bacon on top for a smoky, savory flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli and cauliflower. Just add them directly to the pot and adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
4. What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich.
5. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian.
A Comforting and Creamy Soup
Creamy Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a bowl of something warm and satisfying. With its smooth texture, cheesy flavor, and wholesome vegetables, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy this delicious, easy-to-make soup that’s both nourishing and flavorful!
