Why You’ll Love This Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with vitamins from broccoli and protein from cheese.
- Comfort in a Bowl: Creamy, cheesy goodness with tender broccoli in every bite.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist the cheesy flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- Ladle
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Whisk
- Immersion blender (optional, for a smoother texture)
Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup! This rich, creamy, and cheesy soup is the perfect pick-me-up on a chilly day. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
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Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 12 oz frozen broccoli)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Bread or croutons, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
- Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Base
- In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, and flour until smooth.
- Slowly pour the mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Continue simmering for 3-5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken.
Step 4: Blend (Optional)
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Leave some broccoli chunks for texture, if preferred.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, mixing until melted and smooth.
- Add Dijon mustard (if using), then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra cheese or croutons, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use Fresh Cheese: Shred your own cheddar for the creamiest results. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.
- Control the Thickness: Add more broth for a thinner soup or let it simmer longer for a thicker consistency.
- Make It Ahead: This soup reheats beautifully! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Thaw the broccoli first, or add it directly to the pot and cook for a few extra minutes.
Q2: How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch as a thickener.
Q3: Can I freeze this soup?
While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly due to the dairy. Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Conclusion: Cozy and Satisfying!
This Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, comforting, and packed with cheesy flavor. Perfect for a quick meal or a cozy night in, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Give it a try, and let the warmth and deliciousness brighten your day!
Did you make this recipe? Share your photos and feedback in the comments or tag us on social media—we’d love to see your creations!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Enjoy every creamy spoonful, and don’t forget to share with family and friends!
