Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days. Packed with nutritious broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, this soup provides a delicious way to enjoy your vegetables. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s no wonder that this soup has become a favorite among many families.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home is simple and rewarding. It is not only easy to prepare, but it is also a great way to use fresh ingredients. This soup is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be served with bread or crackers. Plus, it is a healthier option compared to many store-bought soups that may contain preservatives. Enjoying a warm bowl of this creamy goodness can also lift your spirits during a busy day.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
- Cheddar cheese
- Butter
- Sweet onion
- Garlic, minced
- Flour
- Chicken stock
- Mustard powder
- Paprika
- Broccoli florets
- Shredded carrots
- Whole milk
Directions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sweet onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in chicken stock, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add mustard powder, paprika, broccoli florets, and shredded carrots; bring to a simmer.
- Once the broccoli is tender, stir in whole milk and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese or some freshly cracked black pepper. Pair it with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple salad for a complete meal. This soup can also be served in a bread bowl for a delightful presentation.
How to Store Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Thaw and reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- If you want a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup before adding the cheese.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini for variety.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste; adding a little cayenne pepper can give a nice kick!
Variation
Consider making a vegan version of this soup by substituting the cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Coconut milk can also be used for a dairy-free creamy texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well for this recipe. Make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.
2. How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add spicy ingredients like crushed red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños to give it an extra kick.
3. Can I add meat to this soup?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken or bacon can be added for an extra hearty meal. Just stir it in before serving.
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and comforting dish packed with nutritious broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 Sweet onion, diced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons Flour
- 4 cups Chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon Mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 4 cups Broccoli florets
- 1 cup Shredded carrots
- 2 cups Whole milk
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sweet onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in chicken stock, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add mustard powder, paprika, broccoli florets, and shredded carrots; bring to a simmer.
- Once the broccoli is tender, stir in whole milk and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
For thicker soup, blend a portion before adding cheese. Adjust spices for personal preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: broccoli, cheddar, soup, creamy, comfort food
