Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting classic that combines the goodness of fresh vegetables with the rich flavor of melted cheddar cheese. This soup is perfect for cozy nights when you need a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. It’s also incredibly easy to make and can be served as a main dish or paired with your favorite bread for a delightful soup-and-salad combo.

This broccoli cheddar soup is full of wholesome ingredients like broccoli, carrots, and onions, blended together in a rich, cheesy base. Whether you’re looking for a meal to enjoy on a chilly evening or want a delicious side dish for a family gathering, this soup offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables while indulging in the creamy comfort of cheddar cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Texture

The combination of half-and-half, chicken broth, and cheddar cheese creates a smooth, velvety texture that’s irresistibly comforting.

2. Packed with Vegetables

This soup is loaded with fresh broccoli and carrots, making it a great way to sneak some healthy veggies into your meal without sacrificing flavor.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

With just a few simple steps and ingredients, this soup comes together in under 45 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

4. Customizable

You can adjust the thickness of the soup to your liking, and you can even add other veggies, like potatoes or celery, to suit your tastes.

5. Kid-Friendly

The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make this soup a hit with kids, even those who aren’t big fans of broccoli!

Ingredients

• Butter
• Onion
• Garlic
• All-purpose flour
• Half-and-half
• Chicken broth
• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Vegan Version: Swap the butter for olive oil and use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives to make this soup vegan-friendly.
• Add Potatoes: For a heartier soup, add peeled and diced potatoes for extra texture and flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the soup a slight kick.
• Add Bacon: For extra flavor, sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon on top when serving.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Base

Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the half-and-half and chicken broth, making sure the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Add the chopped broccoli and carrots to the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend only part of the soup or leave it as is if you prefer a creamy consistency.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Season

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and the soup becomes rich and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the soup hot, with additional shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or add more flour during the roux step.
• Broccoli Size: Cut the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets for quicker cooking and easier blending.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or half-and-half until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Add Protein: To make the soup more filling, consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or even a handful of beans.

How to Serve

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner. It also pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal. You can also top it with extra shredded cheese, croutons, or a drizzle of cream for a gourmet touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if it has thickened too much.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop, adding more broth or milk as needed to adjust the consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.

2. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth to make this soup vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it before serving.

4. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter for olive oil, the half-and-half for a non-dairy milk, and use dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version.

5. Can I add meat to this soup?

Yes, cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage can be added for extra protein and flavor.

6. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

7. How do I make this soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, you can simmer it longer, add more flour, or blend more of the soup to create a smoother texture.

8. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but fresh shredded cheddar will melt more smoothly into the soup.

9. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before freezing and reheat slowly when ready to serve.

10. Can I make this soup without a blender?

Yes, if you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer part of the soup to a regular blender and blend it in batches.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with fresh vegetables. It’s a deliciously satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and can be customized to your taste. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day or serving it as a comforting dinner, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. With its rich flavor and smooth texture, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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