Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm, creamy delight packed with fresh broccoli and tasty cheddar cheese. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl!
This soup is so easy to make, and I love how the flavors come together. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get some greens while enjoying all that cheesy goodness! 🥦🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star! If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli works well too. Just make sure to thaw it first and adjust cooking time a bit.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for this soup because it brings a strong, cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, mild cheddar or a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack can be used.
Milk: Whole milk gives the soup creaminess, but you can swap it for half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk if needed. Oat milk or almond milk can work, but they might alter the flavor slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, a plant-based butter or olive oil can be a great swap.
How Do I Make Sure My Cheese Melts Smoothly?
To avoid clumping or curdling when adding cheese, follow these tips:
- Use room temperature cheese, as it integrates better into the hot soup.
- Gradually add the cheese while stirring on low heat, rather than boiling, which can cause it to separate.
- Shred the cheese yourself instead of buying pre-shredded, as it melts beautifully!
With these tips, you should have a creamy and delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup that warms the soul. Serve it up with some toasted bread for the full experience!
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot (optional for color and sweetness)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for depth)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional, for garnish/spice)
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup will take about 15 minutes and another 20-30 minutes for cooking, bringing the total to about 45 minutes. Quick, simple, and oh-so-satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, around 5 minutes. This will give your soup a lovely base flavor.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir it in well, so the flavor spreads through the pot!
3. Create the Roux:
Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This will form a roux that helps thicken your soup and gives it that creamy texture we love.
4. Combine Liquids:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth, then pour in the milk. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a gentle simmer. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t boil over!
5. Cook the Broccoli:
Add the fresh broccoli florets (and shredded carrot if you’re using it) to the pot. Cover and let it cook until the broccoli is tender but still bright green, about 8-10 minutes. You want it to maintain that lovely color!
6. Blend for Creaminess:
Using an immersion blender, puree about half the soup to create a creamy texture while leaving some chunks of broccoli. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer half the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
7. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and optional Dijon mustard. Cook on low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and velvety, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil!
8. Season to Taste:
Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to suit your taste buds. Give it a final stir!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and some crusty bread or toasted baguette slices on the side. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
This recipe creates a rich, comforting bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant color and cheesy goodness will have you coming back for more!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it first and then adjust the cooking time slightly, cooking until it’s heated through and tender.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil, use vegetable broth, and swap the milk for coconut milk or a dairy-free milk of your choice. For the cheese, you can find vegan cheese alternatives that melt well!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it gently on the stovetop until warmed through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
