Creamy Broccoli and Cheddar Soup Recipe for Cozy Days

Indulging in a bowl of broccoli and cheddar soup is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly day, where every spoonful brings warmth and comfort. Imagine the rich, velvety texture of melted cheese mingling with the earthy goodness of tender broccoli, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table, eagerly anticipating this delightful experience.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a nostalgic hug from my childhood kitchen, where my mom would whip up this creamy concoction on rainy afternoons. It’s perfect for those lazy weekends when you’re craving something hearty yet simple to make. Get ready to dive into a bowl of happiness that promises to brighten even the gloomiest days!

Ingredients for broccoli and cheddar soup

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

• Fresh Broccoli: Use about 4 cups of chopped broccoli florets for that signature flavor and vibrant color.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for at least 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar for maximum cheesiness.
• Onion: One medium onion adds depth and sweetness; diced finely for even cooking.
• Garlic: Two cloves minced will give your soup a fragrant kick that pairs beautifully with cheese.
• Vegetable Broth: About 4 cups will provide a flavorful base; use low-sodium if you prefer.
• Heavy Cream: A cup of heavy cream makes this soup luxuriously creamy; half-and-half can be used for a lighter option.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste; season carefully as the broth may already contain salt.

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

How to Make broccoli and cheddar soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping your fresh broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic while you’re at it, channeling your inner chef.

Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, toss in the diced onion and cook until translucent, about five minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant about one minute should do it.

Step 3: Add Broccoli & Broth

Stir in your chopped broccoli followed by vegetable broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil over medium-high heat then reduce to low simmer. Let it cook for about ten minutes or until broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Blend It Up

Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring batches into a regular blender), puree the mixture until smooth. If you like some texture, leave some chunks intact—you do you!

Step 5: Stir in Cream & Cheese

Return the blended mixture to heat on low. Pour in heavy cream gradually while stirring constantly. Add shredded cheddar cheese one handful at a time, allowing it to melt before adding more.

Step 6: Season & Serve

Taste your masterpiece! Add salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or croutons on top for that extra crunch.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every cheesy spoonful of this delightful concoction!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, add chopped broccoli and vegetable broth, letting everything simmer until tender. Blend for creaminess, then stir in cheese for that rich finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the broccoli for cauliflower or kale if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some spice with red pepper flakes or fresh herbs for an extra kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.

I remember the first time I made this broccoli and cheddar soup; my kids couldn’t get enough of it! They even asked for seconds now that’s what I call a win in my kitchen!

FAQs:

What are the main ingredients in broccoli and cheddar soup?

Broccoli and cheddar soup primarily features fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, vegetable or chicken broth, and cream. Additional ingredients often include onions, garlic, carrots, and seasonings such as salt and pepper. crispy chicken bites with broccoli This combination creates a rich and flavorful soup that is both nutritious and satisfying. You can also adjust the recipe by adding other vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.

How can I make broccoli and cheddar soup healthier?

To make broccoli and cheddar soup healthier, consider using low-fat or plant-based alternatives for cream and cheese. You can substitute with almond milk or cashew cream for a lighter version while still maintaining creaminess. Incorporating more vegetables like spinach or kale boosts nutritional content. Additionally, using whole grain bread for dipping can enhance the meal’s fiber content.

Can I freeze broccoli and cheddar soup?

Yes, you can freeze broccoli and cheddar soup! To do so, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to restore its creamy texture. For more inspiration, check out this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe.

What dishes pair well with broccoli and cheddar soup?

Broccoli and cheddar soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a simple garden salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a quiche or savory pie. These combinations enhance the flavors of the soup while offering diverse textures to your dining experience.

Conclusion for broccoli and cheddar soup:

In summary, broccoli and cheddar soup is a delicious dish that combines nutritious ingredients like fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese for a comforting meal. It’s easy to customize based on dietary preferences or available vegetables. low carb alternatives for comfort food Whether enjoyed alone or paired with sides like crusty bread, this creamy soup remains a favorite choice for many. another creamy soup recipe Try making this delightful recipe at home for a tasty treat that warms you up during chilly days! For more inspiration, check out this cozy cabbage soup recipe recipe.

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Broccoli and Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Hannah
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Broccoli and cheddar soup is a comforting, creamy delight that combines tender broccoli with sharp cheddar cheese for an indulgent flavor experience. Perfect for chilly days, this easy-to-make dish is packed with nutrients, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family. Serve it as a starter or enjoy it as a hearty main course alongside crusty bread. Dive into this warm bowl of happiness that promises to lift your spirits!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the onion until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
3. Stir in chopped broccoli and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 10 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
4. Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender, leaving some texture if desired.
5. Return to low heat, gradually stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving warm.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or fresh herbs. - Substitute broccoli with cauliflower or kale for a different twist. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently.