If you are on the lookout for a cozy, comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is absolutely for you. Combining the fresh crunch of vibrant green broccoli with the luscious, melty goodness of sharp cheddar cheese, this soup blends simple ingredients into a creamy, savory masterpiece. It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy enough for a weeknight meal yet special enough to share with friends and family, guaranteeing smiles with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavor, creaminess, and texture. From the buttery base to the vibrant vegetables and sharp cheddar, every component transforms this soup into a soul-warming delight.
- Butter (5 tablespoons, divided): Essential for sautéing and creating that silky base for your soup’s rich flavor.
- White onion (1 small, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings an aromatic punch that wakes up the palate.
- Flour (¼ cup): The key to thickening the soup and giving it that creamy texture without cream.
- Milk (2 cups): Provides a smooth, velvety finish and balances the sharpness of the cheese.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (2 cups): Adds savory richness without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Fresh or frozen broccoli florets (2 cups, chopped): The star vegetable that offers color, nutrition, and texture.
- Thinly sliced carrots (1 cup): Introduce a gentle sweetness and a beautiful pop of orange hue.
- Cheddar cheese, shredded (1½ cups): Melts into gooey, flavorful pockets that make every bite irresistible.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by melting part of the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced white onion and minced garlic, letting them gently soften and release their fragrance. This step creates a flavorful foundation that sets the tone for the entire soup.
Step 2: Create the Roux and Add Liquids
Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste called a roux. This is your thickening agent that will turn the soup creamy without any heavy cream. Slowly pour in the milk and low-sodium chicken broth while continuing to whisk, ensuring a lump-free mixture.
Step 3: Simmer Until Thickened
Let the mixture gently simmer for several minutes. This soft bubbling is when the soup starts to thicken and develop that luscious, velvety body you expect from a classic Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe. Patience here is key to achieving the right consistency.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Stir in the chopped broccoli and thinly sliced carrots. Allow them to cook until tender but still bright and fresh in color. These vegetables not only lend health benefits but also add delightful texture and mood-boosting vibrancy to each spoonful.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continually until the cheese melts completely, enhancing the soup with that unmistakable creamy sharpness. This step brings the whole soup together with warmth and richness.
Step 6: Season to Perfection
Finally, season your soup with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. This allows you to customize the flavor, highlighting the comforting balance between the vegetables and cheese in this beloved Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the experience, serve your soup garnished with a sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar cheese or a handful of freshly chopped chives for color and mild oniony crunch. A swirl of heavy cream or a few crispy bacon bits can be delightful additions as well.
Side Dishes
This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm, buttered rolls. Consider a crisp garden salad to balance the richness or some garlic toasted baguette slices that make for perfect dunking tools in the cheesy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls that double as edible containers. Alternatively, plate it with a vibrant drizzle of herb oil or a dusting of smoked paprika to add both visual appeal and a subtle flavor twist. Sharing this soup in individual ramekins at a dinner party is both practical and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a quick meal without compromising on the fresh, comforting flavors.
Freezing
This soup freezes well, although the texture of the broccoli may soften slightly upon thawing. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best consistency.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from clumping or sticking to the pot. Adding a splash of milk during reheating can help restore a creamy texture that’s just as delightful as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use cauliflower instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Cauliflower adds a different but equally delicious flavor and texture to this soup. It pairs wonderfully with cheddar and keeps the dish light and nutritious.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The soup will retain its deep, cozy flavors while keeping it completely vegetarian-friendly.
What type of cheddar cheese works best?
Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese works best for this recipe because it melts well and provides a bold, tangy flavor that complements the vegetables beautifully.
Can I add cream instead of milk?
You can, and it will make the soup even richer. Use heavy cream or half-and-half if you want a more indulgent and luxurious texture, but keep in mind it will increase the calorie content.
How do I keep the soup from being grainy after reheating?
Reheat slowly over low heat and stir constantly. Adding a little milk or broth while reheating helps smooth out the texture and keeps the cheese from becoming grainy.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is more than just a soup; it’s a little bowl of comfort that’s perfect for warming you up during cooler days or whenever you crave something soothing yet flavorful. I encourage you to try it out yourself—once you get that first creamy, cheesy spoonful, you’ll understand why it’s such a timeless favorite.
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Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting classic that blends tender broccoli, sweet carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese into a rich, velvety soup. Perfect for cozy dinners, it features a smooth roux base with sautéed onions and garlic, simmered to perfection and finished with melted cheese for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup flour
Liquids and Vegetables
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups chopped fresh broccoli or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté onion and garlic: In a large pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of the butter. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
- Make a roux and add liquids: Stir in the flour with the butter, onion, and garlic mixture until combined and cooked for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk and low-sodium chicken broth, continuing to stir until smooth.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, and cook until it thickens slightly, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add vegetables and cook: Add the chopped broccoli and thinly sliced carrots to the pot. Continue simmering the soup until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant, approximately 8-12 minutes.
- Incorporate cheddar cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined, creating a creamy texture throughout the soup.
- Season to taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. Stir well and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense flavor.
- To make the soup thicker, cook longer after adding the flour or add more cheese.
- This soup can be blended partially for a creamier texture if desired.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
