Cheddar Broccoli Soup Easy and Comforting Recipe

If you're craving a warm, comforting bowl of Cheddar Broccoli Soup, you've come to the right place! This easy recipe combines creamy cheese, fresh broccoli, and simple ingredients, making it the perfect dish for any night. As you follow this step-by-step guide, I’ll share tips to make your soup smooth and flavorful. Get ready to enjoy a cozy meal that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make your cheddar broccoli soup, you will need:

- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets

- 1 medium onion, diced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 4 tablespoons butter

- 3 cups vegetable broth

- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1 teaspoon onion powder

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: Croutons and additional cheese for garnish

Nutritional Information

This soup is packed with nutrients. Each serving offers:

- Calories: about 350

- Protein: 12 grams

- Carbohydrates: 18 grams

- Fat: 28 grams

- Fiber: 3 grams

- Vitamin C: 90% of daily value

This dish is a great source of calcium, fiber, and vitamins.

Optional Garnishes

You can make your soup even better with some tasty garnishes:

- Croutons for a crunchy bite

- Extra cheddar cheese for more flavor

- Chopped chives for a fresh touch

- A drizzle of olive oil for richness

These additions not only enhance the look but also boost the taste!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melting the Butter and Sautéing Onion

First, grab a large pot. Place it on medium heat and add 4 tablespoons of butter. Let the butter melt fully. Next, add 1 medium diced onion. Cook it for about 5 minutes. You want the onion to turn soft and clear. This step builds a nice flavor base for the soup.

Adding Garlic and Broccoli

Now, it's time to add flavor. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook it for about 1 minute, just until you smell the garlic. Then, toss in 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth. Bring the mix to a boil. Once it bubbles, lower the heat and let it simmer. You want the broccoli to cook for about 10 to 15 minutes until it’s tender.

Blending the Soup and Incorporating Cheese

When the broccoli is soft, it’s blending time! Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, you can use a regular blender in batches. Once blended, return the soup to the pot. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Next, gradually add 2 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese. Stir it constantly until the cheese melts into the soup. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Consistency

To get a smooth and creamy soup, you want to blend it well. I use an immersion blender. It makes it easy and quick. If you use a regular blender, do it in small batches. Always blend until it's silky. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of it. This gives a nice texture with pieces of broccoli.

Best Cheeses for Flavor

Sharp cheddar cheese gives the best flavor. It melts nicely and adds depth. You can mix in a bit of Gruyère for a twist. If you want a milder taste, try mild cheddar. Remember to add cheese slowly. This helps it melt perfectly and avoids clumps.

Adjusting Seasoning to Taste

Seasoning is key for great flavor. Start with salt and pepper. Taste as you go. If you want more garlic flavor, add garlic powder. For a hint of sweetness, a pinch of sugar can help. Adjust until it tastes just right for you. Enjoy your soup!

Variations

Vegan Cheddar Broccoli Soup

To make vegan cheddar broccoli soup, swap the heavy cream and cheese. Use cashew cream instead of heavy cream. For cheese, use a vegan cheese blend or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. This keeps the soup creamy and rich without dairy. Blend soaked cashews with water to create a smooth cream.

Adding Protein Options

Want to make your soup heartier? Add protein! Cooked and shredded chicken or turkey works well. You can also mix in cooked lentils or chickpeas for a plant-based boost. These options add flavor and texture, making the meal more filling. Just stir them in before you serve the soup for a tasty twist.

Spice It Up: Incorporating Hot Sauce or Spices

If you like heat, add hot sauce or spices. A dash of cayenne pepper can bring a nice kick. You can also try smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. These spices enhance the soup while keeping it comforting. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. Adjust the heat level to suit your taste buds!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers Properly

After you enjoy your Cheddar Broccoli Soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure the soup cools to room temperature first. This helps keep it fresh. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within three to four days. Label the container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made it.

Reheating Instructions

When you are ready to enjoy the soup again, heat it on the stove. Pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat. Stir it often to keep it from sticking. You can also microwave it in a bowl. Heat it for one to two minutes. Stir in between to make sure it heats evenly. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream.

Freezing the Soup

Freezing is a great option if you want to save the soup for later. Cool the soup completely before freezing. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Seal them tightly to prevent freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. It saves time and is easy to find. Just add it to the pot when you would add fresh broccoli. Cook it a bit longer since frozen broccoli may need more time to soften. The flavor will still be great!

How can I thicken the soup further?

To thicken the soup, you can mash some broccoli with a fork. You can also add more cheese or cream for a richer texture. Another option is to mix in a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Stir it in while the soup simmers.

What to serve with Cheddar Broccoli Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combo. For a fun twist, try serving it with homemade croutons or a sprinkle of more cheese on top!

This blog post shared how to make a tasty Cheddar Broccoli Soup. We covered the ingredients, from cheese to optional garnishes. You learned step-by-step instructions, tips for the best texture, and variations to suit your diet. Remember to store leftovers properly and use frozen broccoli if needed. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and have fun making this dish your own. This soup is simple yet satisfying. You now have the tools to create a warm bowl of comfort. Happy cooking!