Cozy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe for Chilly Days

There’s something magical about a warm bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Imagine the rich, creamy texture gliding across your tongue and the delightful crunch of fresh broccoli mingling with jazzed-up cheddar cheese. It’s like a tight hug from your favorite sweater, only tastier. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, teasing your senses and promising comfort in every spoonful.

As I recall those cold winter nights huddled by the fireplace, this soup was always my go-to dish. My mom would whip it up with an unshakeable rhythm, her laughter punctuating the clinks and clatters of pots and pans. This recipe is not just food; it’s nostalgia in a bowl, perfect for family gatherings or simple weeknight dinners. Trust me, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup will make your taste buds sing and leave you craving more.

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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

• Fresh Broccoli: Use about 4 cups of chopped broccoli florets for that lovely green color and crunch.

• Cheddar Cheese: A sharp cheddar works best for maximum flavor; aim for about 2 cups shredded.

• Onion: One medium onion adds depth; finely chop it to blend seamlessly into the soup.

• Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic will elevate the taste of your soup.

• Vegetable Broth: Use around 4 cups to build a flavorful base; low-sodium is preferred.

• Heavy Cream: About one cup brings that luscious creaminess that makes this soup irresistible.

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

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they soften and become fragrant—about 3-5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Broccoli

Stir in the chopped broccoli florets along with some salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes while stirring frequently; we want those vibrant greens to brighten up!

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring it to a regular blender), blend the soup until smooth yet still slightly chunky—it’s all about finding that perfect texture!

Step 5: Add Cream & Cheese

Return the blended soup to low heat. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Taste it—this is where magic happens!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle out generous portions into bowls, garnish with extra cheese if you’re feeling fancy, and serve hot with crusty bread alongside.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every creamy bite of your homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Next, add broccoli and broth, bringing everything to a simmer. Once the broccoli is tender, blend until smooth, then stir in your cheese for that creamy finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out broccoli for cauliflower or add some carrots for a pop of color. Experiment with cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for an unexpected twist on this classic Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Sometimes I whip up a batch of Broccoli Cheddar Soup when friends visit; their smiles as they dip bread into the bowl are priceless moments that remind me why I love cooking! For more inspiration, check out this helpful cooking tips recipe.

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

To prepare a delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you will need fresh broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, vegetable or chicken broth, cream or milk, and seasonings like salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor. This comforting soup is easy to make and requires only a few staple ingredients found in most kitchens. For more inspiration, check out this delicious side dishes recipe.

How long does it take to make Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. You will spend around 10 minutes preparing the vegetables, followed by simmering them in broth for about 20 minutes. After that, blending and adding the cheese takes an additional 5 to 10 minutes. This quick cooking time makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights.

Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup for later enjoyment. To do this, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Ensure you leave some space at the top of the container because the soup may expand as it freezes. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat on the stove.

How can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthier?

To make your Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthier, consider using low-fat cheese and milk alternatives like almond or oat milk. You can also add more vegetables such as carrots or cauliflower for added nutrition without significantly changing the flavor. Additionally, reduce the amount of cream and opt for vegetable stock instead of chicken broth to keep it lighter while maintaining its rich taste.

Conclusion for Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth with every spoonful. With simple ingredients like fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, you can create a hearty meal in under 40 minutes. This versatile soup is not only delicious but also easy to customize according to your dietary needs. Remember that leftovers freeze well, making this recipe a great option for meal prep. Enjoy this classic soup any time you crave something cozy!

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Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting classic that melds creamy cheddar cheese with fresh broccoli for a satisfying meal. Perfect for chilly days, this soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With its vibrant green color and rich flavor, every bowl feels like a warm hug. Enjoy this delightful dish with a crusty bread or salad for a complete meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups chopped fresh broccoli
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant (3-5 minutes).
2. Add chopped broccoli, salt, and pepper; cook for another 3-4 minutes until bright green.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil; simmer for 15 minutes until broccoli is tender.
4. Blend the soup until smooth yet slightly chunky using an immersion blender.
5. Return to low heat; stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Serve hot with extra cheese on top, accompanied by crusty bread.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, mix in other veggies like carrots or cauliflower. Swap sharp cheddar for gouda or pepper jack for a flavor twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.