Description
This creamy, comforting broccoli cheese soup is the perfect bowl of warmth for cold days. With tender broccoli, a rich cheese sauce, and just the right amount of seasoning, this soup will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of croutons for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Croutons for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
-
Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour into the pot and stir constantly. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux (a thickening base for the soup).
-
Add the Broth:
- Slowly pour in the broth while stirring continuously. Increase the heat to bring it to a gentle boil.
-
Cook the Broccoli:
- Once the soup is boiling, toss in the broccoli florets. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
-
Blend the Soup:
- Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. You can blend just half for a chunkier texture if preferred.
-
Add Cream and Cheese:
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve hot, garnished with croutons if desired.
Notes
-
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it before adding to the soup. -
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Substitute with half-and-half, whole milk, or equal parts milk and melted butter. -
How to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat. -
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or spinach along with the broccoli.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Broccoli cheese soup, creamy soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, homemade soup, vegetable soup