Embrace the warmth of a cozy kitchen with our delightful Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe. This creamy concoction combines the wholesome goodness of tender broccoli, crisp carrots, and rich cheddar cheese in a velvety broth. Whether it’s a frosty winter evening or a rainy day craving, this comforting soup is bound to soothe your soul and tantalize your taste buds. Let’s dive into how to whip up this comforting classic in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
5 tablespoons of butter, divided
1 small white onion, finely diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
¼ cup of all-purpose flour
2 cups of milk
2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups of chopped fresh broccoli or frozen broccoli florets
1 cup of thinly sliced carrots
1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent and fragrant.
Create Roux: Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring continuously to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, ensuring it doesn’t brown too much.
Add Liquids: Gradually pour in milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Allow the mixture to simmer gently until it thickens slightly, typically about 5-7 minutes.
Incorporate Vegetables: Stir in chopped broccoli and sliced carrots, allowing them to cook in the simmering broth until they reach desired tenderness. This usually takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of your vegetable pieces.
Cheesy Goodness: Once the vegetables are tender, reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts completely and the soup achieves a smooth, creamy consistency.
Season to Perfection: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Remember, the cheese adds some saltiness, so adjust accordingly.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the warm and velvety Broccoli Cheddar Soup into bowls, garnishing with additional shredded cheese if desired. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a satisfying meal.
Serving Tips:
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives on top of each bowl for a pop of color and added freshness.
Crunchy Croutons: Serve the soup with homemade or store-bought croutons for a delightful textural contrast.
Drizzle of Cream: For an extra touch of indulgence, swirl a dollop of heavy cream or sour cream into each serving just before serving.
Pair with Bread: Serve alongside warm, crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for a complete and satisfying meal.
Soup Bowls: Present the soup in decorative bowls or mugs for an inviting and cozy presentation, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to freeze the soup for later use, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Ensure there is some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to adjust the consistency.
Avoid Reheating Cheese: To prevent the cheese from separating or becoming grainy upon reheating, it’s best to reheat the soup gently over low to medium heat, stirring constantly until warmed through. Avoid boiling or overheating, as this can affect the texture of the soup.
Individual Portions: Consider freezing individual portions of the soup in smaller containers or resealable bags for convenient single servings, allowing you to thaw and enjoy exactly what you need without having to thaw the entire batch.
Related Recipes:
- Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
- Creamy Potato Soup
- Achieving The Right Temperature For Cornish Hens
FAQs:
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli florets and sliced carrots are convenient alternatives that work just as well in this recipe. Simply thaw them before adding them to the soup, adjusting the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure they are tender.
Can I Make This Soup in Advance for a Party?
Yes, you can prepare this soup in advance for gatherings or parties. Simply follow the recipe as directed, allowing the soup to cool completely before refrigerating it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to adjust the consistency.
Is This Soup Suitable for Vegetarians?
Yes, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be easily adapted for vegetarian diets by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Additionally, ensure that the cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly. With these simple swaps, you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of this comforting soup.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adjust the consistency with a splash of milk or broth as needed.
Conclusion:
With its creamy texture and robust flavors, our Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a true culinary delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re seeking comfort on a chilly evening or simply craving a nourishing meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Easy to prepare and bursting with wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. So grab your apron and get ready to savor the comforting goodness of homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our savory Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, this creamy delight is sure to warm you up on chilly days. Follow our simple instructions to create a velvety blend of tender broccoli, sliced carrots, and melted cheddar cheese in a rich broth. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this satisfying soup is guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients
5 tablespoons butter, divided
1 small white onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup flour
2 cups milk
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups chopped fresh broccoli or frozen broccoli florets
1 cup thinly sliced carrots
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté onion and garlic in butter.
- Make a roux with flour, then add milk and broth.
- Simmer until thick.
- Add broccoli and carrots; cook until soft.
- Stir in cheese until melted.
- Season to taste.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
Feel free to customize the soup by adding your favorite herbs or spices for an extra kick of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
