Creamy Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

There’s something magical about a warm bowl of cheddar broccoli soup. Imagine creamy goodness, vibrant green broccoli, and the nutty richness of sharp cheddar melting into a comforting embrace, all while wafting delightful aromas that make your taste buds sing. It’s like a cozy hug for your insides, perfect for chilly nights when you’re snuggled up on the couch with your favorite blanket.

Now, let me take you back to my first attempt at making this soup. I was determined to impress my friends during a “soup-off” competition (who knew such things existed?). Armed with a recipe and an overzealous desire to win, I chopped vegetables like I was auditioning for a cooking show. Spoiler alert: I won! And you will too once you whip up this cheddar broccoli soup – it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for cheddar broccoli soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Broccoli: Aim for bright green florets, as they add both flavor and color to your soup.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choose high-quality cheese for maximum flavor; the sharper the better!
• Onion: A medium onion will add depth and sweetness; chop it finely so it blends well into the soup.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring out the best flavors; don’t skimp on this aromatic hero.
• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep control of the saltiness while enhancing the soup’s flavor.
• Milk or Cream: For that rich and creamy texture, use whole milk or heavy cream based on your preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make cheddar broccoli soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Veggies

Start by washing and chopping the fresh broccoli into small florets. Dice your onion finely and mince that aromatic garlic so it releases its full potential.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and toss in the onions. Cook them until they become translucent—about 5 minutes—then stir in the minced garlic for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broccoli

Now it’s time to add those vibrant broccoli florets into the pot along with your vegetable broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for about 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Step 4: Blend It Up

Once your broccoli is perfectly cooked, grab an immersion blender (or transfer carefully to a regular blender) and blend until smooth. If you want some texture, blend only part of it—totally up to you!

Step 5: Stir in Dairy

Return your blended mixture to low heat and slowly stir in milk or cream until fully incorporated. Add in grated sharp cheddar cheese bit by bit until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed—don’t forget that finishing touch! Serve hot with crusty bread on the side or garnish with extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent.

Transfer to bowls and enjoy each comforting spoonful of this delightful cheddar broccoli soup – it’s like happiness in a bowl!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until golden, then add fresh broccoli and cook until tender. Pour in broth and simmer while whisking in your cheese. Blend until smooth for that creamy texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheddar for gouda or add some spicy jalapeños for a kick. Toss in leftover chicken or even a handful of spinach to amp up nutrition without sacrificing taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When it’s time to reheat, gently warm on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

I remember the first time I made this cheddar broccoli soup for my family. They slurped it up like there was no tomorrow, with my brother asking if I could swim in it!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for cheddar broccoli soup?

To make cheddar broccoli soup, gather fresh broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, vegetable broth, cream, garlic, onion, and seasoning like salt and pepper. You might also want to include flour or cornstarch for thickening. These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy texture that enhances the flavors of the broccoli and cheese.

How can I make cheddar broccoli soup healthier?

For a healthier version of cheddar broccoli soup, consider using low-fat dairy options like skim milk or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. You can also add extra vegetables such as carrots or spinach for added nutrients. Reducing the amount of cheese can help lower calories while still maintaining flavor.

Can I freeze cheddar broccoli soup?

Yes, you can freeze cheddar broccoli soup! To do this, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It is best to consume it within three months. When reheating, add a splash of broth to restore its creamy texture and prevent separation.

What are some good side dishes to serve with cheddar broccoli soup?

Cheddar broccoli soup pairs well with various side dishes. Consider serving it with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. You could also opt for grilled cheese sandwiches or garlic bread for a comforting combo that complements the creamy soup.

Looking to expand your recipe collection? Check out these tasty recipes for your next culinary adventure.

Conclusion for cheddar broccoli soup:

In summary, making delicious cheddar broccoli soup involves simple yet flavorful ingredients like fresh broccoli and sharp cheese. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs by incorporating healthier alternatives or adding extra veggies. Freezing leftovers is an excellent way to enjoy this comforting dish later. Overall, this soup is perfect for chilly days and offers a warm hug in a bowl!

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Cheddar Broccoli Soup

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Warm up with this creamy cheddar broccoli soup, a delightful blend of fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar, perfect for chilly days. This simple recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

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• Key Ingredients:
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium)
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Instructions:
2. 1. Prepare Your Veggies:
3. – Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets.
4. – Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic.
5. 2. Sauté the Base:
6. – In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil.
7. – Add onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
8. – Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
9. 3. Add Broccoli:
10. – Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot.
11. – Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
12. 4. Blend It Up:
13. – Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or transfer carefully to a regular blender).
14. – If you prefer some texture, blend only partially.
15. 5. Stir in Dairy:
16. – Return the blended mixture to low heat.
17. – Gradually stir in milk or cream until fully incorporated.
18. – Add grated sharp cheddar cheese bit by bit until melted.
19. 6. Season and Serve:
20. – Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
21. – Serve hot with crusty bread on the side or garnish with extra cheese if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 50mg