Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli cheddar soup is a delicious and comforting dish that warms you up on a cold day. This creamy and cheesy soup features tender broccoli florets blended into a smooth and rich base. It’s not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a thoughtful choice for a hearty meal. Many love to serve this soup with crusty bread or as a side to a sandwich. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in, this broccoli cheddar soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
Making broccoli cheddar soup at home brings many advantages. First, it’s simple to prepare and requires only a handful of ingredients. You can customize the flavors to suit your taste, whether you want it creamier or a bit spicier. Homemade soup is often fresher than store-bought options and allows you to use high-quality ingredients. This recipe is also a fantastic way to sneak more vegetables into your diet without compromising on flavor. Plus, there’s something wonderful about the smell of soup simmering on the stove that can make any house feel like a home.
How to Make Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Making broccoli cheddar soup is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps for a delicious result.
Ingredients:
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low sodium chicken stock
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 1/2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 stalk celery, finely diced
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 cup extra shredded cheddar for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Melt the Butter: Start by melting 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Make sure not to let it brown; we just want it melted.
Cook the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the melted butter. Cook it for about 4 to 5 minutes or until it becomes soft and translucent. This step builds a flavor base for your soup.
Add Flour: Next, whisk in 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes. It should become lightly golden. Whisking at this stage helps to avoid lumps later.
Incorporate Chicken Stock: Slowly pour in 2 cups of low sodium chicken stock while whisking continuously. This will help make the soup smooth and creamy. Season it with salt and black pepper to your liking.
Adding Vegetables: Stir in the finely diced celery and the small chopped broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, which should take about 5 minutes.
Simmer the Broccoli: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 12 to 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender. This is where your kitchen will start to smell wonderful.
Add Milk: After the broccoli is cooked, stir in 2 cups of whole milk. Let it simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
Cheese Time: Remove the pot from heat. Add 2 cups of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese in small handfuls. Stir well, making sure each handful melts completely before adding more. This will make your soup creamy and cheesy.
Adjust Seasoning: Finally, taste your soup and adjust the seasonings, if necessary. It’s essential to make sure the flavors are just right.
Serve Warm: Your broccoli cheddar soup is ready! Serve it hot, perhaps with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar on top for a lovely finishing touch.
How to Serve Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serving your broccoli cheddar soup is an enjoyable part of the meal experience. You can present it in deep bowls or even bread bowls for a fun twist. If you’re feeling indulgent, add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil on top for added flavor. Garnishing with extra shredded cheddar not only looks appealing but also adds extra cheesiness. Pair your soup with some crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your soup with friends and family for a warm and inviting dinner.
How to Store Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
If you have leftover soup, storing it properly is essential. Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it! Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, allowing some room for expansion as it freezes. It can last in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then gently warm it on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much during storage.
Tips to Make Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Check Your Broccoli: Make sure your broccoli is fresh and vibrant. Wilted broccoli can negatively affect both the taste and texture of your soup.
Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
Adjust for Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, add more milk or a splash of heavy cream during the cooking process.
Blend for Smoothness: For a velvety soup, you can blend the soup with an immersion blender after adding the milk. Blend it to your preferred texture before adding the cheese.
Play with Spices: Experiment with different spices like garlic powder or cayenne pepper for an added kick.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes to increase the nutritional value and diversify the flavor.
Variations
You can adapt broccoli cheddar soup to suit your tastes! For a different flavor, consider using other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack. If you’re looking to make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk. You can also add protein by including cooked chicken pieces or even crumbled bacon on top for a smoky flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. Just ensure it is thawed and drained before adding it to the soup.
2. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make broccoli cheddar soup gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. You may need to adjust the quantities slightly for the best texture.
3. What can I serve with broccoli cheddar soup?
This soup pairs nicely with a side salad, garlic bread, or a hearty sandwich. Many people also enjoy it with crackers or a baguette.
4. Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make dairy-free broccoli cheddar soup, use plant-based milk such as almond milk or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
5. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator or freezer and reheat it when you are ready to enjoy it.
Enjoy making and indulging in this comforting Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup! Each spoonful brings warmth and satisfaction, perfect for any day of the year.
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Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and cheesy soup featuring tender broccoli florets blended into a smooth, rich base, perfect for a warm meal.
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low sodium chicken stock
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 1/2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 stalk celery, finely diced
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 cup extra shredded cheddar for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Cook the onion for about 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Incorporate chicken stock slowly while whisking continuously.
- Add celery and broccoli florets; bring to a gentle boil for about 5 minutes.
- Simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Add milk and simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
- Add cheddar cheese in small handfuls, ensuring each melts completely before adding more.
- Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Serve warm with extra cheddar on top if desired.
Notes
Use fresh cheese for better melting. For a creamier texture, add more milk or cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, comfort food, creamy soup, vegetarian soup, easy recipes