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- 4 large sourdough bread bowls - 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated - 1 small onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 4 cups vegetable broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 tablespoons butter - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional) When making broccoli cheddar soup, you need fresh and tasty ingredients. The sourdough bread bowls are key. They hold the soup and add flavor. Choose bread bowls that are firm. They should not fall apart when filled. Next, broccoli florets give the soup its bright green color. They provide a nice crunch and flavor. Use fresh broccoli for the best taste. If you want, you can also use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and chop it first. Sharp cheddar cheese is a must. It melts well and gives a rich taste. Grate it yourself for the best results. Pre-packaged cheese may not melt as smoothly. You will also need some pantry staples. A small onion adds sweetness. Garlic gives a punch of flavor. Vegetable broth helps to create a rich base. For creaminess, use heavy cream. It makes the soup smooth and rich. Butter and olive oil work together to sauté the onion and garlic. Seasoning is important too. Use salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors. Nutmeg is optional but adds warmth. Gather all these ingredients. You will create a delicious soup that fills your bread bowls. - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Cut the tops off the sourdough bread bowls. Hollow out the centers with care. - Save the bread you remove for croutons or sides. - Place the hollowed bowls on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. - In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. - Add 1 small diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns clear. - Add 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for another minute until fragrant. - Add 2 cups of chopped broccoli to the pot. Stir for 2 minutes. - Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil. - Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. The broccoli should be tender. - Use an immersion blender to blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. - If you don’t have one, let the soup cool slightly. Blend in batches in a regular blender. - Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Mix well until combined. - Add 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely. - Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg if you like. - Carefully ladle the hot soup into the toasted bread bowls. - If you want, sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top. Place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden. For a smooth soup, blending is key. I suggest using an immersion blender. It keeps things easy. If you don't have one, blend in batches using a regular blender. This step makes a huge difference in texture. If you want a creamier soup, add more heavy cream. Start with half a cup. Mix it in and taste. Adjust until you get your desired richness. Sourdough bread works best for bowls. It adds great flavor and a nice texture. Look for bread with a thick crust. This helps keep your soup inside. You can also use bread like ciabatta or boule. Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the soup without falling apart. Fresh herbs can elevate your soup's taste. Try using parsley or chives as a garnish. They add color and flavor. Always taste your soup before serving. You may want to add more salt or pepper. Adjust the seasonings according to your palate. A pinch of nutmeg can give warmth too. {{image_2}} You can easily change the flavor of your soup. Adding chicken or ham gives it a hearty touch. Simply add cooked, shredded chicken or diced ham to the soup just before serving. This adds protein and makes the soup more filling. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try legumes. Beans or lentils work well. They boost nutrition and make the soup rich. Just cook them separately, then stir them in before serving. Cheese is key in this soup, but you can switch it up. Try different cheese for unique tastes. Gouda or Monterey Jack can add a nice twist. Each cheese brings its own flavor. For those avoiding dairy, use dairy-free cheese. Many brands offer good options that melt well. Look for cheese made from nuts or soy. Just remember to check the flavors to find what suits you. Broccoli is the star, but other veggies shine too. Carrots, cauliflower, or spinach can change the soup's look and taste. Adding carrots gives a sweet crunch. Cauliflower adds creaminess without the calories. Seasonal veggies are great for variation. In fall, you might add pumpkin. In spring, try asparagus. This keeps your soup fresh and exciting all year round. After you make broccoli cheddar soup, you might have some left. To store it, let the soup cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavor fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a good option. To freeze the soup, use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top, as soup expands when frozen. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove. Stir well to make it creamy again. For the bread bowls, store them in a paper bag. This keeps them fresh without getting soggy. Avoid plastic bags, as they trap moisture. You can keep the bread bowls at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to store them longer, freeze them. Wrap each bowl tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Here’s how: - Cook the soup and let it cool. - Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. - When you're ready to eat, reheat the soup on the stove. This way, you save time on busy days. Just remember to prepare the bread bowls fresh for the best taste. If you want to swap the heavy cream, consider these options: - Use half-and-half for a lighter version. - Try coconut milk for a dairy-free option. - Blend silken tofu with a bit of water for a creamy texture. Adjust the seasoning based on what you use. Each will change the flavor slightly, so choose what you like best. To keep the bread bowls from becoming soggy: - Toast them until they are golden and firm. - Serve the soup hot but not boiling. - Consider adding a layer of cheese at the bottom of the bowl. These steps create a barrier and keep the bread intact longer. Yes, using frozen broccoli works well! Here are a few tips: - Thaw the broccoli first for even cooking. - You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. - Frozen broccoli may have a softer texture but will still taste great. This makes meal prep easier and saves time when you’re in a rush. This blog post covered how to make delicious broccoli cheddar soup in sourdough bread bowls. You learned about key ingredients and pantry staples. I shared easy step-by-step instructions to cook and blend the soup. We also discussed tips for perfecting texture and suggested variations to customize your dish. Cooking at home can be fun and rewarding. I encourage you to try this recipe. Enjoy a warm bowl of soup that’s both comforting and tasty. Happy cooking!

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Bread Bowls

Experience comfort food at its finest with these Broccoli Cheddar Soup Bread Bowls! This delicious recipe blends creamy cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli served in crispy sourdough bowls, perfect for a cozy night in. Follow our simple steps for a heartwarming meal anyone can make. Don’t miss out on this tasty treat—click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your dinner game today!
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Ingredients
  

4 large sourdough bread bowls

2 cups broccoli florets, chopped

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Extra cheddar cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Bread Bowls: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the sourdough bread loaves and hollow out the centers to create bowls. Save the bread you remove for later use as croutons or for a side. Place the hollowed bread bowls on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.

    Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

      Cook the Broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli to the pot and stir for 2 minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

        Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. If you don't have an immersion blender, let the soup cool slightly and blend in batches in a regular blender.

          Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese into the blended soup, mixing until the cheese is melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if desired. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

            Serve the Soup: Carefully ladle the hot broccoli cheddar soup into the toasted bread bowls. If desired, sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top and place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden.

              Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cracked pepper or a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately with the bread tops on the side for dipping.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4