Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of broccoli cheddar soup. Growing up, my family would often gather around the kitchen table on chilly evenings, and this creamy delight would always be a favorite. The combination of rich cheddar cheese with tender broccoli creates a harmony that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Recently, I decided to whip up a batch, and the memories flooded back with every spoonful. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, and the best part? It’s simple enough to make on a weeknight yet indulgent enough to serve at a gathering. If you’re looking for a deliciously creamy soup that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, look no further!

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Croutons, store-bought or homemade, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables

1. Melt butter: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Cook onion and carrot: Add the chopped onion and grated carrot to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Make Roux

4. Sprinkle flour: Sprinkle the flour, sea salt, mustard powder, and nutmeg over the vegetables. Whisk and cook until a paste forms, about 1-2 minutes.

Add Liquids

5. Whisk in milk: Slowly whisk in the milk or half-and-half. Cook until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
6. Add stock: Remove the pot from heat and gradually stir in the chicken or vegetable stock.

Blend

7. Use immersion blender: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. (Alternatively, you can transfer the liquid to a blender, let it cool briefly, and blend in batches.)

Add Broccoli

8. Stir in broccoli: Return the pot to the heat and stir in the chopped broccoli. Simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 20 minutes.

Stir in Cheeses

9. Add cheeses: Stir in the grated Parmesan and half of the shredded cheddar until melted. Add the remaining cheddar and stir until the soup is creamy.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories: 353 per serving

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm in bowls, topped with extra cheddar cheese.
• Garnish with freshly cracked black pepper and croutons for added texture.
• Pair with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Cheese choice: Opt for extra-sharp cheddar for a deeper flavor, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère for variety.
2. Vegetable additions: Consider adding other vegetables such as cauliflower or carrots for a heartier soup.
3. Thicker soup: For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the broccoli with the soup.
4. Storage: Store leftover soup in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to thin it out if needed.
5. Make it vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives for a delicious vegan version.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Bacon lovers: Stir in crumbled bacon for added flavor and texture.
• Herb infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the cooking process for added aroma and flavor.
• Potato cheddar soup: Add diced potatoes for a heartier version of the soup.

Serving Suggestions

• With bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• Salad: Pair with a light garden salad for a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
• Sandwich: Enjoy alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little more liquid if it thickens.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli; just add it directly to the soup without thawing.

2. Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

3. How can I make the soup dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of dairy milk, and choose dairy-free cheese alternatives.

4. Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

5. What can I use instead of cheese?

Nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

7. Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu for extra protein.

8. How do I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup while it simmers.

9. What type of milk is best for this soup?

Whole milk or half-and-half will provide the creamiest texture, but you can use any type of milk you prefer.

10. Can I use a regular blender instead of an immersion blender?

Yes, but let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering hot liquid.

Conclusion

Broccoli cheddar soup is a quintessential comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a beloved dish for families and gatherings alike. With its easy preparation and delicious results, it’s no wonder that this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of bread, this soup is sure to bring smiles to the table. Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming a favorite in your home, too!

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