Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a classic comfort food that combines the earthy goodness of fresh broccoli with the creamy, rich flavor of extra-sharp cheddar cheese. This velvety soup is loaded with vegetables and topped off with a cheesy finish that makes each spoonful irresistible. The blend of spices like smoked paprika, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper adds depth to the flavor, while the half-and-half creates a creamy base. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty meal for lunch or dinner or as a starter for a cozy evening, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With its wholesome ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect for any occasion, bringing both warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Texture

The combination of half-and-half and butter creates a luxurious, velvety texture that perfectly complements the fresh broccoli and carrots, making it an indulgent dish.

2. Sharp Cheddar Flavor

The generous amount of extra-sharp cheddar cheese brings a bold, cheesy flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the mildness of the broccoli, making it the star ingredient.

3. Packed with Vegetables

With six cups of chopped broccoli and two cups of shredded carrots, this soup is loaded with healthy vegetables, offering a nutrient-rich dish that’s still incredibly satisfying.

4. Easy to Make

This soup comes together in just a few simple steps, making it a perfect weeknight meal. The ingredients are easy to find and require minimal prep, so you can make it with little fuss.

5. Versatile and Customizable

You can customize this soup by adding extra vegetables or even some protein, like cooked chicken or bacon, to make it a more filling meal. It can also be served in bread bowls for an extra touch of comfort.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• Unsalted butter
• Olive oil
• Yellow onion (finely diced)
• Minced garlic
• Smoked paprika
• Ground mustard
• Ground cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper
• Flour
• Low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• Half-and-half
• Bay leaf (optional)
• Chopped broccoli (bite-sized pieces)
• Shredded carrots
• Grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese

For Serving:

• Hearty buttered bread (optional)
• Bread bowls (optional)

Variations

1. Add Protein: For a heartier version, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or even bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
2. Spice It Up: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and cheese to make this soup vegan-friendly. Opt for a dairy-free cream alternative and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
4. Extra Veggies: Add other vegetables like cauliflower, celery, or even potatoes to give the soup more texture and flavor.
5. Bread Bowls: Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun, rustic presentation and to make it even more filling.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, melt 3 tablespoons of the butter and the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Spices and Flour

Add the smoked paprika, ground mustard, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to toast and develop their flavor. Then, add the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes to form a roux.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Half-and-Half

Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Next, add the half-and-half and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Add the bay leaf (if using), chopped broccoli, and shredded carrots to the pot. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Remove the bay leaf, if used. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a little at a time, until it melts smoothly into the soup, creating a creamy, cheesy consistency.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with a garnish of additional cheddar cheese and optionally with hearty buttered bread or in a bread bowl for extra flavor and texture.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Grate the Cheese Yourself: For the best meltability, grate the cheese yourself. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the soup.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Make sure to simmer the broccoli until it’s just tender, but not mushy. This keeps the soup’s texture fresh and vibrant.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth: To control the salt content, always use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, especially since cheese can be salty on its own.
• Use Half-and-Half for Creaminess: For a perfectly creamy soup, use half-and-half. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with milk, but the texture won’t be as rich.
• Make It Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the texture if needed.

How to Serve

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with a side of hearty buttered bread or even in a bread bowl. Pair it with a fresh salad or a sandwich for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone. For added texture, sprinkle extra cheese on top before serving or top with crispy croutons.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken as it cools, so you can add a little more milk or broth when reheating to restore its creamy texture.

Freezing

Broccoli Cheddar Soup freezes well, but you may need to adjust the texture after thawing. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding more milk or broth if necessary to adjust the consistency.

Reheating

To reheat, place the soup in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add more half-and-half or broth to return it to the desired consistency. Do not reheat on high heat, as this may cause the cheese to separate.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the soup.

3. Can I use low-fat milk instead of half-and-half?

Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but the soup won’t be as creamy. Half-and-half gives the soup its rich texture, so use it for the best results.

4. Can I add more vegetables to the soup?

Yes, you can add additional vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, or leeks to the soup to boost its flavor and texture.

5. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for an extra kick. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes for more heat.

6. Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, you can make it vegan by using dairy-free butter and cheese, and substituting the half-and-half with a plant-based cream like coconut milk or almond milk.

7. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, broccoli cheddar soup can be frozen. Just make sure to reheat it gently and add a little extra liquid if needed to restore the creamy texture.

8. How can I thicken the soup?

If the soup is too thin, you can make a slurry by mixing a small amount of flour with cold water and stirring it into the soup. Alternatively, let the soup simmer longer to thicken naturally.

9. Can I use a different type of cheese?

While extra-sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor, you can also use mild cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses for a different taste.

10. How can I serve this soup?

This soup can be served on its own, or with a side of buttered bread, in a bread bowl, or paired with a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a deliciously comforting dish that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or serving it as part of a larger meal, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its balance of savory cheese and fresh vegetables, this soup is not only tasty but also nutritious. Make it ahead of time for an easy meal or enjoy it fresh with a side of crusty bread for the perfect cozy meal.

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