This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with healthy broccoli. It’s the kind of warm hug you want on a chilly day!
Honestly, it’s hard to resist a bowl of this soup. I love dipping my bread in it—super comforting and just so tasty! You’ll want to make it on repeat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is great for this soup. If you can’t find it, frozen florets work well too. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess water before adding.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness of the soup. You can also use olive oil or coconut oil if you want a dairy-free option.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds the best flavor! If you’re looking for something milder, you could use medium cheddar or even a mix of cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack.
Half-and-Half: This gives the soup a rich creaminess. If you want to lighten it up, you could use whole milk or a plant-based milk like almond milk, but it might change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Create a Creamy Texture?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is key for this soup. The roux (flour and butter mixture) is essential for thickening. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cook the roux for 2 minutes while whisking to remove the raw flour taste.
- Whisk the broth in slowly to avoid lumps. Make sure it’s well combined before adding the milk!
- For a creamier finish, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. This gives it a nice thick consistency without making it completely smooth.
Remember, patience is key when melting the cheese. Stir it in gradually over low heat to make it perfectly gooey and delicious!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until it smells amazing!
2. Create the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, whisking continuously for about 2 minutes. This helps form a roux that will thicken your soup and give it a great texture.
3. Add the Broth and Milk:
Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth until the mixture is smooth. Then, add the half-and-half or whole milk while constantly whisking. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, but be careful not to let it boil!
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Add in the broccoli florets and let them cook for about 8-10 minutes. They should become tender but still retain a bright green color—no one likes mushy broccoli!
5. Stir in the Cheese:
Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
6. Season to Taste:
Season the soup with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dry mustard powder if you’re using them. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Don’t be shy—make it as flavorful as you want!
7. Blend If Desired:
If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can serve it just like this! For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup or transfer half to a blender and pulse until slightly smooth, then mix it back into the pot.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh black pepper. Pair this warm, comforting soup with crusty bread or pretzel rolls for an extra treat!
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Soup?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance! It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it gently over low heat to prevent the cheese from separating.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the cooled soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, do so in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, but keep in mind that the texture may slightly change upon reheating.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Definitely! While sharp cheddar gives fantastic flavor, you can use other cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different taste profile. Just ensure they’re good melting cheeses!
