Are you bored with the same old dinner routine and want something different? A delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect. This easy dinner takes only 30 minutes to put together. The recipe uses widely available ingredients. Chances are you already have them. The soup is satisfying and delicious, so it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!
A Perfect Bowl of Soup for a Cold Winter Day
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is delicious. But what is it that makes this soup a perfect comfort food?
First, the star of the show is undoubtedly the healthy broccoli. Broccoli is a unique ingredient. When cooked right, broccoli has a tender-crisp bite that is perfect in this creamy soup.
And speaking of creaminess, let’s remember the cheese! The richness of sharp cheddar cheese blends with the sweetness of the broccoli. The result is a savory, indulgent broth that is creamy without being heavy.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup isn’t just about flavors. This soup is also versatile. Want it fancy? Garnish your soup with croutons, bacon bits, or a drizzle of truffle oil. Want to keep it simple and cozy? Just ladle the soup into a big bowl and curl up on the couch.
Finally, let’s remember the comfort factor. Something is soothing about a bowl of warm soup, and this soup is no exception. The flavors, textures, and aromas transport you to a cozy winter cabin or a peaceful dining table.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a classic for a reason. It is a dish that is both hearty and healthy. It is indulgent and comforting, and every spoonful satisfies. So, the next time you crave something warm and wonderful, reach for a bowl.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1-diced medium yellow onion
- 2-minced garlic cloves
- 1-head broccoli florets
- 5 cups Homemade Chicken Stock
- 4 cups water
- 4 tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 4 cups milk
- 12 oz. shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Instructions
- Put a large pot over medium heat.
- Melt butter and add olive oil.
- Add onion.
- After 5 minutes, add the garlic.
- Cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 3 minutes.
- Whisk in the half and half and chicken stock.
- Add the broccoli florets.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Whisk in mustard, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Simmer until the broccoli is tender.
- Allow the soup to cool for 10 minutes.
- Working in batches, blend half of the soup mixture until smooth.
- Pour the pureed soup back into the pot with the remaining soup.
- Slowly add the cheese until melted and smooth.
- Serve in soup bowls and top with more cheese.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli cheddar soup is a classic comfort food. This cheesy, creamy soup will please your taste buds and warm your soul. If you want to make it even more delicious, follow these simple tips!
Use Fresh Ingredients:
Fresh ingredients are essential for making a delicious soup. Start with fresh broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese for the ultimate flavor.
Give it a Velvety Texture:
Add a couple tablespoons of sour or heavy cream for a richer flavor and a little zing.
Different Cheeses:
Cheddar cheese may be traditional but try other flavors. Smoked Gouda, Swiss, and pepper jack are good choices.
Substitute Cauliflower for Broccoli:
Cauliflower has a mild flavor that pairs with cheese and other ingredients.
Potatoes Make it Heartier:
Add some diced potatoes to the soup. The starchy potatoes will help thicken the soup.
Do not Overcook the Broccoli:
Overcooking the broccoli will result in a mushy soup that will not have the same flavor. The broccoli should have a slight crunch.
Make it Vegetarian:
Substitute vegetable stock for chicken stock.
Use Low Sodium Broth:
Choose a low-sodium broth or stock for the soup. The reduction of salt will allow the other flavors to shine through. You can always add salt to your liking at the end.
Add Some Spice:
Add some hot sauce, Salt-Free Cajun Seasoning, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. These seasonings give the soup a nice punch and kick it up a notch.
Garnish with Herbs:
Add a pop of color and flavor by topping your soup with herbs. Use parsley, chives, or thyme. Fresh herbs create a gourmet finish.
Broccoli cheddar soup is comfort food at its best. Try these tips next time.
Alternative Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
There are many delicious alternative recipes to Cheddar Broccoli Soup. Here are some tasty recipes to put a flavorful twist on the traditional recipe.
Cauliflower and Cheddar Soup:
This delicious, creamy soup will be a hit with the whole family. Blend cooked cauliflower, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and garlic powder.
Spicy Cheddar Broccoli Soup:
Spice up your soup by adding jalapeños to the mix. This spicy twist will have your taste buds tingling with delight.
Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bacon:
Add a savory twist to the soup with ham or bacon! Add cubed ham to the soup and cook the bacon in a skillet. When crisp, crumble it into the soup.
Cheesy Broccoli and Corn Chowder:
For a heartier version of the classic soup, try Broccoli and Corn Chowder. Add American cheese and canned corn to the soup pot and simmer until the cheese has melted. The result is a cheesy and savory meal.
No matter which recipe you choose, you can go right. Get creative and put your twist on the classic Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe.
Easy Store-Bought Hacks for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Do you want a delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup but don’t have the time to make it from scratch? Make your Cheddar Broccoli Soup easier than ever with these store-bought hacks.
Use Pre-Made Soup Stocks:
Maybe you do not have time to make Homemade Chicken Stock. Many stores carry flavorful stocks and broths perfect for soups. Try them to make the recipe easier.
Use Pre-Shredded Cheese:
Pre-shredded cheese can help save time. Plus, it makes the soup creamier.
Use Frozen Broccoli:
Frozen broccoli florets are perfect for cheddar broccoli soup. Already cut, you do not have to worry about prepping them yourself.
Use store-bought items when necessary. There are many items available in stores that you can use to make your cooking easier.
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