Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is an easy-to-make, flavorful, and comforting meal that brings together fresh vegetables and creamy cheese. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Rich & Creamy: The combination of cheese, milk, and a touch of nutmeg creates a silky-smooth soup.

• Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with broccoli, carrots, and a savory broth, it’s a hearty soup perfect for any meal.

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days when you need a warm, filling meal.

• Customizable: Add extra ingredients like cayenne pepper for heat, or substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

• Perfect with Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 2 cups whole milk

• 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces

• 1 large carrot, peeled and grated

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Create Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.

3. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth, followed by the milk. Continue to whisk to ensure there are no lumps.

4. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

5. Blend Soup (Optional): For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired texture. Alternatively, transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.

6. Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the grated cheddar cheese until fully melted and the soup is creamy. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cheese to prevent curdling.

7. Season: Stir in the salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 4

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

• Extra Veggies: Add extra vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach for more flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently over low heat to maintain the creamy texture, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin the soup.

FAQs

Can I make this soup without cheese?

Yes, you can make a lighter version of the soup by omitting the cheese. It will still be delicious, but without the creamy, cheesy richness.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it beforehand, and adjust the cooking time if needed.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop.

How can I make this soup thicker?

To make it thicker, you can blend a portion of the soup or add a little more flour when making the roux.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

What can I serve this soup with?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a mild cheddar, but sharp cheddar provides the best flavor.

Is this soup gluten-free?

No, this recipe contains all-purpose flour, but you can substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, low-fat or 2% milk can be used instead of whole milk for a lighter version of the soup.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a simple, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. With fresh vegetables, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy base, it’s a delightful bowl of warmth. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a cozy snack, this soup will surely hit the spot!