Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm and comforting dish that brings smiles to the dinner table. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with delicious broccoli goodness. This soup is perfect for a chilly day or when you need a cozy meal that the whole family will love!
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this Broccoli Cheddar Soup because it’s quick and easy! It uses simple ingredients that you might already have at home, and it’s sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s healthy! Broccoli is full of vitamins, and you can enjoy a hearty, nutritious meal in no time.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the onions and carrots, and sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stir to coat them, and cook for another minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly add the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the chopped broccoli and bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or blend in batches with a regular blender).
- Stir in the cream and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.
- Add the grated cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serve the Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot, and consider pairing it with crusty bread or a simple side salad. This makes for a lovely meal that is both filling and delicious!
How to Store Broccoli Cheddar Soup
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. When you want to enjoy it again, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- For extra flavor, you can add garlic while sautéing the onions and carrots.
- Make sure to constantly whisk the broth when adding it to avoid lumps.
- If you like a thicker soup, let it simmer longer after blending.
Variation
You can easily add other veggies like cauliflower or spinach to this soup for more flavor and nutrients!
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli works great too! Just cook it a bit longer to ensure it gets tender.
Q: Can this soup be made ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make it a day in advance, and the flavors will deepen.
Q: Is there a way to make this soup vegetarian?
A: Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and stick to the other ingredients.