Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is one of those incredibly comforting dishes that warms both the soul and the stomach. On chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather, there’s nothing quite like a rich and cheesy bowl of this delicious soup. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress guests and family alike. The savory blend of tender broccoli and sharp cheddar creates a flavor fusion that’s simply irresistible—a hallmark of classic comfort food.
Why you’ll love this dish
If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious, and downright delicious meal, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup should be at the top of your list! Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also appeals to the entire family, making it a win for weeknight dinners. Imagine having a simple, yet scrumptious dish that combines healthy greens with the creamy goodness of cheddar cheese—this soup is an absolute keeper. For busy weeks, it’s perfect because it comes together in about 30 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy a cozy night in.
"This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a big hit with my kids. They gobble it up every time!" — Emily J.
The cooking process explained
Creating Broccoli Cheddar Soup is easier than you might think! Here’s a simple overview. You will sauté the onions and garlic, add the broccoli, and then blend everything to create a creamy base. Finally, you’ll stir in the cheese and cream, and voila! It’s a creamy, dreamy soup that’s ready to serve.
What you’ll need
Gather these essential ingredients to bring your Broccoli Cheddar Soup to life:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Feel free to swap in low-fat cheese or non-dairy cream options if you’re looking for lighter alternatives!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot and sauté for a few more minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. If you don’t have one, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
- After blending, stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat until the cheese melts and the soup is warmed through.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping. Consider pairing it with a simple side salad to add a fresh crunch, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for the ultimate comfort food combo.
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? No problem! Store your Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Helpful cooking tips
To enhance the flavor of your soup, try roasting the broccoli before adding it to the pot. This will give a deeper, more robust taste. If you want to pack a nutritional punch, consider tossing in some chopped carrots or spinach along with the broccoli. And don’t forget to adjust the seasoning as you like—it’s a great way to make the soup truly your own.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ideas to put a unique spin on your Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
- Stir in some cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a comforting warmth.
- For a spicy kick, mix in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Swap out some of the cheddar for Gruyère or try a blend of cheeses for extra depth.
Common questions
- What’s the prep time for this recipe? The total prep time is about 10 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes for cooking.
- Can I make this soup dairy-free? Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- How long can I store leftovers? Your Broccoli Cheddar Soup can safely be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for about 3 months. Don’t forget to cool it completely before storing!
With this easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe, you’ll enjoy a deliciously warm meal that hugs your taste buds like a cozy blanket. Perfect for any day of the week, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free option
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot and sauté for a few more minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. If you don't have one, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
- After blending, stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat until the cheese melts and the soup is warmed through.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
