Broccoli Cheddar Soup

The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl

There’s nothing quite like the creamy embrace of a warm bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup on a chilly evening. Imagine stepping into a cozy kitchen, the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic wafting through the air, ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a quick, one-pan wonder that becomes the star of any dinner table, appealing to kids and adults alike.

Why Make This Recipe

Why struggle with complicated meals when you can whip up this superbly easy broccoli cheddar soup? Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Minimal Cleanup: One pot, one glorious soup. Who doesn’t love less time scrubbing dishes?
• Budget-Friendly: Packed with flavors, light on your wallet. Perfect for your bank account during the holiday season!
• Family-Friendly: Get your kiddos to enjoy their greens! With ooey-gooey cheese, they might even ask for seconds (or thirds!).

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Grab these ingredients and get ready to create something delicious:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk or cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Directions

Time to get cooking! Just follow these simple steps:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the broccoli is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk or cream. Cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
5. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. Serve warm.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Overview)

Let’s break it down nice and easy. Start by sautéing those aromatic onions and garlic—your kitchen will smell divine! Next, let the broccoli and broth mingle and become tender. When it’s soft, blend until smooth, and then stir in that glorious cheddar cheese and a splash of milk. Voila! You’ve got a creamy masterpiece. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving your broccoli cheddar soup is where the fun begins! Picture this: a vibrant green bowl, the cheese just melted, giving that rich, inviting color. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color, and serve with crunchy, fresh bread on the side. The aroma of the cheese mingling with the steamed broccoli will make everyone gather around the table in no time.

How to Store Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Leftovers? Yes, please! This soup will keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just pop it into an airtight container, and you’re golden. Want to save it for later? It can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.

Tips to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Here are some insider tricks to take your soup to the next level:

• Mix Up Your Cheeses: Try mixing different kinds of cheese for a unique flavor blast. Think gouda or a hint of parmesan added on top!
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch more cayenne for some heat or swap it with smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
• Customize Your Veggies: Want to throw in some carrots or celery? Go for it! This soup is super forgiving.
• Texture Matters: If you like a chunky texture, only blend half the soup and leave the rest as is.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Make this Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan by substituting the cheese and cream with plant-based alternatives, like nutritional yeast and coconut milk. You can also add roasted red peppers for a delicious twist that adds both color and flavor!

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated on a busy weeknight.

Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, it freezes nicely! Just ensure it’s cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container.

What’s a good substitute for cheddar cheese?
You can try using a vegan cheese or a mix of mozzarella and nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

A creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup that is easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for the whole family.

Imprimer la recette Pin Recipe

Temps de préparation 10 minutes min

Temps de cuisson 15 minutes min

Temps total 25 minutes min

Portions: 4 servings

Type de plat: Dinner, Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingrédients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
• 1 medium onion, chopped Gives flavor to the soup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the aroma
• 4 cups broccoli florets Main vegetable
• 4 cups vegetable broth For the base of the soup
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Adds creaminess and flavor
• 1 cup milk or cream For richness
• to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika For added flavor
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) For a bit of heat

Method

 

Cooking

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the broccoli is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it's smooth.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk or cream. Cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
6. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. Serve warm.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months. For reheating, add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens.