Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that offers a rich combination of flavors and textures, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This indulgent soup balances the earthy taste of fresh broccoli with the sharpness of extra-sharp cheddar cheese, creating a velvety smooth consistency that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal for lunch, dinner, or a cozy starter, this recipe delivers. With its heartwarming ingredients like butter, garlic, and a touch of cayenne pepper, every spoonful offers layers of savory goodness. Paired with some hearty buttered bread or served in a bread bowl, this soup can easily become the centerpiece of a casual meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. With its balance of rich creaminess and fresh vegetables, this broccoli cheddar soup is a great way to get a serving of veggies while indulging in comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or for a special occasion, it’s sure to satisfy both the soul and the taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comforting and Creamy

The creamy texture of this soup, thanks to the combination of butter, half-and-half, and cheddar cheese, creates a smooth and indulgent dish that is perfect for cozy nights in.

2. Full of Flavor

With a mix of sharp cheddar cheese, paprika, ground mustard, and a touch of cayenne, the soup is loaded with flavors that are bold yet comforting.

3. Easy to Make

This soup is quick to prepare and doesn’t require any complicated techniques, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

4. Packed with Vegetables

The broccoli and carrots not only add nutritional value but also provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, creamy base.

5. Customizable

With a few easy variations, you can adjust the recipe to your taste, dietary preferences, or what ingredients you have on hand, making it a flexible dish to keep in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter
• Olive oil
• Yellow onion, finely diced
• Minced garlic
• Paprika (preferably smoked)
• Ground mustard
• Ground cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Flour
• Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• Half-and-half
• Bay leaf (optional)
• Fresh broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• Shredded carrots
• Extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• Buttered bread or bread bowls (optional)

Variations

• Add protein: You can add cooked chicken or turkey to make the soup heartier.
• Use different cheese: Try swapping the cheddar for Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Vegan version: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese to create a dairy-free version of this soup.
• Spicy kick: Add more cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to spice up the soup if you prefer a heat boost.
• Add herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley can be sprinkled on top for an added burst of flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Melt 5 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil, diced onion, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 2: Add Spices and Flour

Add the paprika, ground mustard, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir for about 30 seconds to toast the spices. Then, sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for another 1-2 minutes to create a roux.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Half-and-Half

Slowly pour in the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the bay leaf if using, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Stir in the chopped broccoli and shredded carrots. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and cooked through.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Remove the bay leaf, then reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne if desired. If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth or half-and-half to reach your preferred consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the soup hot with buttered bread or in a bread bowl for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t rush the roux: Make sure to cook the flour mixture (roux) thoroughly to avoid a raw taste in the soup.
• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the soup a vibrant color and flavor. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it before adding.
• Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents, which can affect the texture of the soup. For the smoothest result, grate the cheese yourself.
• Adjust the thickness: If the soup becomes too thick after cooling, simply reheat it with a bit more broth or milk to restore its creamy texture.

How to Serve

This soup is delicious when served with crusty buttered bread, perfect for dipping, or in bread bowls for a hearty meal. You can also top it with extra shredded cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor and presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover broccoli cheddar soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth or milk to restore its creamy texture.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent separation. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup is too thick.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works fine. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the soup.

2. Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating later.

3. Is this soup spicy?

The cayenne pepper adds a mild heat, but it can be omitted or adjusted based on your spice preference.

4. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half is a great alternative for a lighter version of the soup.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can experiment with other veggies like cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach to customize the soup to your liking.

6. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Make sure the soup is off the heat when you add the cheese, and stir constantly to ensure it melts smoothly.

7. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, just substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.

8. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a simple salad.

9. How do I thicken the soup?

The roux (flour and butter mixture) is what thickens the soup, but if it’s too thin, you can simmer it longer to reduce it, or add a little more flour.

10. How can I make this soup vegan?

To make this soup vegan, use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese, and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delicious, creamy dish that offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions, this easy recipe is customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you make it ahead or serve it fresh, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone coming back for more. The rich, cheesy broth, tender vegetables, and simple ingredients create a satisfying and nutritious meal that is as hearty as it is flavorful.

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