Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting bowl of tender broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese simmered in a rich, velvety base.

If you’re tired of dry, overcooked chicken breasts or dull soups, this recipe offers a deliciously cheesy, nourishing meal perfect for chilly days or easy lunches. At dishfoody.com, this recipe embraces simplicity and flavor, perfect for home cooks who want hearty, satisfying dishes without fuss.

This article will guide you through why this Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe works, choosing quality ingredients, preparation tips, step-by-step cooking instructions, expert advice, flavor variations, serving ideas, and FAQs.

Why This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Works

• Combines fresh broccoli and real cheddar cheese for bold flavor
• Offers creamy texture with healthy vegetable goodness
• Quick to prepare, ideal for weeknights or cozy weekend meals

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Best Ingredients for This Recipe

Fresh broccoli florets are essential for vibrant color and texture. Sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich, tangy note that balances the creaminess.

Buying Tips

Choose bright green broccoli heads with tight florets. Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.

Substitutions

Use frozen broccoli to save time or mix in other vegetables like cauliflower. Gouda or Monterey Jack cheese can substitute cheddar.

Ingredients & Prep for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of nutmeg

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pre-Cooking Prep

Wash and chop broccoli. Grate cheddar cheese and prep onion and garlic.

Cooking Method

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in broth and bring to boil, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Add broccoli florets and simmer until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Remove from heat; blend partially or fully with immersion blender for desired texture.
6. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese; heat gently until cheese is melted and soup is creamy.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Doneness Check

Broccoli should be tender and soup smooth and cheesy.

Resting

Serve warm; the soup thickens slightly as it cools.

Pro Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Use freshly grated cheese to avoid graininess.
• Blend only part of the soup to retain some broccoli texture.
• Heat gently after adding cheese to prevent curdling.

Flavor Variations for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Spicy Twist

Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the soup for a kick.

Keto/Paleo

Use coconut cream and almond flour as thickener, skip flour.

Global Flavors

• French: Add Gruyère and white wine.
• American South: Include smoked paprika and bacon bits.
• Mediterranean: Add lemon zest and oregano.

Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serve with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or fresh salads. Perfect for lunch or cozy dinners.

FAQs for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, adjust cooking time slightly.
• How to store leftovers? Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Is it gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for roux.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Soup offers a creamy, flavorful, and nourishing dish that’s quick and simple to make at home. Ideal for easy comfort food, it’s a family favorite and versatile meal addition. For more comforting recipes, visit dishfoody.com and try our Minestrone Soup next!

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Print Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting classic loaded with tender broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for chilly days and easy to make from scratch.

• Author: ssam
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Total Time: 35 mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups half-and-half or milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• 1. Steam broccoli florets until tender, then chop coarsely.
• 2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
• 3. Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
• 4. Whisk in flour to form a roux; cook 2 minutes.
• 5. Gradually add broth and half-and-half, whisking constantly.
• 6. Simmer until thickened.
• 7. Add chopped broccoli and cheddar cheese.
• 8. Stir until cheese melts.
• 9. Season with salt and pepper.
• 10. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Notes

• Use sharp cheddar for best flavor.
• For a smoother texture, blend part of the soup.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for warm flavor.
• Can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, creamy soup, cheese soup, comfort food