There’s nothing quite like a bowl of soup to warm your soul, especially when chilly weather beckons. One evening, as the wind howled outside, I decided to whip up a comforting bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. With just a handful of ingredients, I was able to create a creamy and rich soup that rivals anything you’d find in a café.
What’s so delightful about this soup is its perfect blend of velvety texture and zesty cheese, complemented by tender bits of broccoli. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience that transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into something unforgettable. Plus, it takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal solution for busy days when you crave something hearty yet quick to prepare. So grab your apron and join me in making this ultimate comfort food that the whole family will adore!
Why Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Comforting Warmth: This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, delivering rich flavors and creamy textures that invite you to savor every spoonful.
Quick & Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable Goodness: Not only is it vegetarian, but you can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste, whether it’s adding extra veggies or choosing your favorite cheese.
Crowd-Pleasing: This soup is a hit for everyone, from kids to adults, transforming any meal into a cozy gathering.
Perfect Pairing: Serve it alongside crusty bread or homemade croutons for an added crunch and satisfaction!
Get creative and also explore more tips on how to elevate your soup experience with the delightful suggestions.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients
• Harness the flavor of this comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup with quality ingredients!
For the Soup Base
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; Olive oil works for a dairy-free version.
- Medium Yellow Onion – Provides a sweet, aromatic base; can substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
- Sea Salt – Enhances overall flavor; kosher or table salt is a suitable alternative.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Offers warmth and depth; white pepper can substitute for a milder profile.
- Garlic Cloves – Adds aromatic richness; garlic powder (1/2 tsp) is a quick pinch substitute.
For Thickening
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup for creaminess; gluten-free flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water can work too.
- Whole Milk or Unsweetened Almond Milk – Provides creaminess; choose almond for a dairy-free option.
- Vegetable Broth – Adds depth of flavor; chicken broth is a great choice for non-vegetarians.
For the Main Flavor
- Chopped Broccoli Florets – The star ingredient, rich in nutrients; swap for cauliflower florets or spinach as desired.
- Large Carrot – Introduces sweetness and texture; omit or replace with celery for a different taste.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds tangy flavor; skip or switch to yellow mustard if needed.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides creaminess and cheesy essence; any melting cheese like Gruyère works well as a substitute.
For Serving
- Homemade Croutons – Optional for serving, adds delightful crunch; ready-made croutons can save time.
Gather these ingredients and get ready for a cozy culinary adventure that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds!
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
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Sauté Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the chopped garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Create Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed mixture. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until it turns a lovely golden color, creating a base for your soup.
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Add Liquid & Vegetables: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking to avoid lumps, then add the vegetable broth, chopped broccoli, carrot, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine all those ingredients for a flavorful soup.
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Simmer: Allow the mixture to come to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes. You want the broccoli to be tender and vibrant green during this step.
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Incorporate Cheese: Slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and the soup becomes creamy and luscious. Taste and season as needed before serving.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Pairing this delightful soup with complementary sides turns a simple meal into a heartwarming experience, perfect for any night of the week.
- Crusty Bread: The ideal companion, its crunch perfectly contrasts with the creamy soup, making every bite more satisfying.
- Homemade Croutons: Add a delightful crunch to each spoonful, enhancing the texture while absorbing the savory goodness of the soup.
- Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette brightens the meal and adds a refreshing balance.
- Garlic Bread: With its buttery and garlicky flavors, this side is a winner, providing a flavorful bite that pairs seamlessly with the soup’s creaminess.
- Steamed Vegetables: Consider lightly steamed green beans or asparagus for a colorful and nutritious touch that elevates the dish.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs beautifully, allowing for a fun cheese-tasting experience alongside the soup.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors of the soup and adds a touch of elegance to the meal.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Complete the experience with a sweet finish; these beloved cookies create a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
Each option brings something unique to the table, ensuring your Broccoli Cheddar Soup is enjoyed to its fullest potential.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists that can elevate your Broccoli Cheddar Soup to an even more delectable experience!
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Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack to add a delightful twist of flavor and smokiness.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley at the end of cooking to bring a fresh, aromatic lift to your soup.
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Vegetable Add-ins: Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for depth and color, transforming the soup into a garden of flavors.
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Creamy Alternatives: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a subtly sweet, tropical flavor that complements the broccoli beautifully.
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Protein Boost: Toss in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked quinoa for a heartier, more filling meal that satisfies your hunger.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat to tantalize your taste buds.
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in roasted sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts before serving to introduce a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
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Low-Carb Option: Substitute broccoli with cauliflower florets for a lighter, low-carb version of this cherished soup.
Make Ahead Options
This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor its delightful flavors even on the busiest nights. You can chop the broccoli and carrots up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the entire soup base without adding the cheese and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the soup gently on the stove, stir in the shredded cheese until melted, and enjoy a comforting meal that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made! This way, you embrace the convenience of make-ahead cooking, ensuring a hearty dish is always within arm’s reach.
Expert Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
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Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth melt.
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Adjusting Thickness: If your soup turns out too thick, gradually add extra vegetable broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
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Low Heat for Cheese: Stir in the cheese over low heat to prevent it from separating, which keeps your Broccoli Cheddar Soup creamy and delicious.
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Roasting Vegetables: For enhanced flavor, consider roasting the broccoli and carrot before adding them to the soup; it creates a lovely depth.
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Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning to your preference, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Fridge: Keep your Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve its creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing to maintain freshness.
Reheating: Thaw the soup in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if it appears too thick.
Storage Tips: Avoid freezing if you anticipate not using it soon, as the creamy consistency may change upon reheating. For best results, enjoy fresh!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right broccoli for this soup?
Absolutely! Look for broccoli florets that are bright green with tightly packed buds. Avoid any with yellowing spots or dark spots all over, as this indicates overripeness. Freshness will ensure a crunchier texture and a vibrant flavor in the soup.
How should I store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
You can store your Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze this soup? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup! To do this, allow the soup to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems too thick.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your soup is a bit too thick for your liking, that’s easily fixed! Gradually add more vegetable broth or milk while stirring over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This ensures a smooth and velvety texture that’s just right for savoring.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Indeed! If you’re serving this to someone with dairy allergies, you can substitute all dairy ingredients with suitable alternatives, like using almond milk instead of whole milk and skipping the cheese. For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch mixed with water to create a similar creamy base without gluten.
What can I do if I don’t have all the ingredients on hand?
No worries! The beauty of this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is its adaptability. You can easily swap chopped broccoli with cauliflower or even spinach; use shallots instead of onions for a milder flavor, or use any melting cheese you have. Feel free to get creative with whatever you have in your pantry!
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup You'll Crave This Winter
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the chopped garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed mixture. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until it turns a lovely golden color, creating a base for your soup.
- Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking to avoid lumps, then add the vegetable broth, chopped broccoli, carrot, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine all those ingredients for a flavorful soup.
- Allow the mixture to come to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the broccoli is tender and vibrant green.
- Slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and the soup becomes creamy and luscious. Taste and season as needed before serving.