Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings:
- Serves 6
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Made with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup is both flavorful and satisfying. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
For the Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
- 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour (use gluten-free if needed)
- 4 cups of vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish
For Topping (Optional):
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Croutons
- Bacon bits
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into small florets and set aside. Peel and chop the stems if desired.
Step 2: Cook the Base
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the flour is lightly browned.
Step 3: Add Broth and Broccoli
- Add Broth: Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
- Blend: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.
- Add Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
- Season: Add the ground nutmeg (if using), and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, croutons, bacon bits, and fresh parsley or chives if desired.
- Serve: Serve the soup warm.
- Enjoy: Enjoy this creamy and comforting broccoli cheddar soup!
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Vegetables: Add carrots, celery, or potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
- Lighter Version: Use milk or a dairy-free alternative instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Nutritional Information:
This broccoli cheddar soup is a rich and comforting dish that provides a good balance of vegetables, protein, and healthy fats. The combination of broccoli and cheddar cheese ensures a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- With Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.
- For Lunch: Enjoy as a hearty and comforting lunch with your favorite toppings.
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a wonderful way to enjoy a creamy and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender broccoli and rich cheddar cheese creates a dish that is both flavorful and delightful. Enjoy this soup with family and friends. Happy cooking!
