This warm and creamy Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is like a cozy hug in a bowl! Packed with fresh broccoli and lots of cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for chilly days.
I love how quick and easy it is to whip up. Just cook, blend, and enjoy! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies—who knew healthy could taste so cheesy? 🧀🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and texture. You can use frozen broccoli florets if fresh isn’t available, just adjust the cooking time as they’ll cook faster.
Onion: Yellow onions work well to add sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or green onions can be used instead for a milder flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is key for that strong cheesy taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, go for mild cheddar. For a fun twist, try mixing it up with a combination of Monterey Jack and cheddar.
Milk and Cream: Whole milk adds creaminess, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, 2% milk or a dairy-free alternative (like almond or oat milk) could work well. Just keep in mind it may change the texture a bit.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Soup?
The texture of your Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is all about the blending technique. You don’t want it completely smooth—leaving some broccoli pieces adds nice texture. Here’s how to do it:
- After cooking the broccoli till tender, carefully blend half the soup directly in the pot with an immersion blender. If you don’t have one, transfer half to a regular blender, blend, and return it to the pot.
- Blend just enough to get a creamy base while keeping some chunks of broccoli intact. It brings great balance!
Remember, you can always adjust your blending depending on how smooth you want the soup. Don’t overdo it if you want those delicious bites of broccoli!
Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Grated cheddar cheese
Time Needed:
This delicious Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup will take approximately 30 minutes to make. This includes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. Get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s softened and translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant.
2. Create a Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine everything and cook this mixture for about 2 minutes. This helps remove the raw taste of the flour, so keep stirring it constantly to avoid any burning.
3. Add Liquid Ingredients:
Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. After that, pour in the milk and heavy cream. Stir frequently as you bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Once simmering, add the broccoli florets. Cover the pot and cook for about 8-10 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
5. Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, puree about half of the soup right in the pot, creating a creamy texture while leaving some broccoli pieces whole. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
6. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar cheese on top. Enjoy it with warm bread or rolls on the side for the perfect cozy meal!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just remember that frozen florets are already blanched, so they’ll cook faster. Add them to the mixture in the last 5 minutes of the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
To make this soup vegan, substitute the butter with plant-based butter, use vegetable broth, and swap the heavy cream and milk for coconut milk or a non-dairy milk of your choice. Make sure to use a vegan cheese option as well!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up if it thickens too much.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or even potatoes for added flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces and adjust cooking times accordingly!
