Cozy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe for Chilly Days

The creamy warmth of Broccoli Cheddar Soup can wrap you up like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Imagine diving into a bowl of this velvety green goodness, where the rich cheese mingles with tender broccoli, creating a comforting embrace for your taste buds. With every sip, you’re greeted by the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist.

This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s nostalgia in a bowl. Picture yourself huddled at the dinner table as a child, spooning up this cheesy goodness while your parents exchanged stories about their day. Fast forward to now, and there’s something undeniably special about bringing that warmth back into your home. Whether it’s cold weather or a rainy afternoon, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect for rekindling those fond memories and indulging in pure deliciousness.

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Broccoli: Use about 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets; they should be bright green and firm.

• Onion: One medium onion adds depth to the soup; dice it finely for even cooking.

• Carrots: Two medium carrots provide natural sweetness; chop them small to ensure they soften quickly.

• Garlic: Four cloves of minced garlic will elevate the flavor; choose fresh cloves for the best impact.

• Vegetable Broth: Use four cups of low-sodium vegetable broth for a flavorful base without too much salt.

• Heavy Cream: About one cup adds richness and creaminess; substitute with half-and-half if preferred.

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: You’ll need two cups shredded sharp cheddar; its bold flavor is essential for this soup.

• Salt and Pepper: Adjust these seasonings to taste after cooking for maximum flavor enhancement.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in your diced onions and chopped carrots first since they take longer to soften. Sauté them until they become translucent—about five minutes should do the trick. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Broth

Now it’s time to introduce your vegetable broth! Pour in four cups of low-sodium vegetable broth while scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of your pot (that’s where all the flavor hangs out). Bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

Once boiling, add those beautiful broccoli florets into the mix. Reduce heat and let everything simmer gently for about ten minutes or until your broccoli turns tender enough that you can poke it with a fork easily.

Step 4: Blend It Up

Using an immersion blender (or transferring carefully in batches if you’re feeling brave), blend the soup until it’s smooth yet still has some texture from the broccoli pieces peeking through. If you’re using a regular blender, allow it to cool slightly before blending—safety first!

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Return your blended soup back to medium heat and stir in one cup of heavy cream, followed by two cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until all that cheesy goodness melts into creamy perfection.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste your soup! This is where you adjust salt and pepper according to personal preference. Once seasoned just right, ladle generously into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread on the side or topped with extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Your homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup is ready to warm hearts and fill bellies! Enjoy every last drop because we both know that’s how it’s done!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pot until they’re fragrant and golden. Then, add the broccoli and broth, simmering until tender. While that cooks, whisk together cream and cheese for the ultimate cheesy finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist. You could also toss in some cooked chicken or croutons for added texture and heartiness.

Storing & Reheating

Cool the soup before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring frequently.

It was a chilly evening when my friend asked me to whip up something warm. I decided on Broccoli Cheddar Soup, and watching her face light up as she took her first spoonful reminded me why I love cooking.

FAQs :

What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish made primarily from fresh broccoli and cheddar cheese. This comforting soup is often thickened with a roux and enhanced with seasonings like garlic and onion. Many variations include additional ingredients such as carrots or potatoes, but the core flavors remain consistent. It’s perfect for warming up on chilly days and pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad.

How can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthier?

To make Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthier, consider using low-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative to reduce calories. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrients. Additionally, substituting vegetable broth for cream can cut down on fat while retaining flavor. Using whole grain bread instead of white bread for dipping increases fiber content, making your meal more nutritious.

Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup! To do so, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’s best to freeze it in individual portions for easy reheating later. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly on the stove. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be delicious.

What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Broccoli Cheddar Soup pairs wonderfully with various sides. A fresh garden salad or a classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal. For a heartier option, pair it with roasted vegetables or quinoa to create a balanced dish that satisfies your hunger.

Conclusion for Broccoli Cheddar Soup :

In summary, Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful and comforting option for any meal. It combines healthy ingredients like broccoli with rich flavors from cheddar cheese. The soup is versatile; you can modify it to suit your dietary needs or preferences easily. Whether enjoyed as a main course or side dish, this creamy delight warms you up on cold days while providing essential nutrients. Try making it at home for an easy and satisfying meal!

Print

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days. This creamy, cheesy delight features fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar, creating a rich and satisfying dish that warms your soul. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a nostalgic favorite that brings back fond memories. Whether enjoyed as a main course or paired with crusty bread, this soup is sure to become a family staple that everyone will love.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté onions and carrots in olive oil over medium heat until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
2. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.
3. Add broccoli florets, reduce heat, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until tender.
4. Blend the soup until smooth with some texture remaining.
5. Return to medium heat and stir in cream and cheddar until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative. Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for unique flavors. Add cooked chicken or croutons for added heartiness.