Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes
Warm and comforting, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, perfect for chilly days.
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a family favorite that combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli with the creamy richness of cheddar cheese. It's simple to make and perfect for a cozy dinner.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and cheesy texture that's satisfying and hearty
- Loaded with fresh broccoli for a nutritious boost
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight meals
A Comforting Classic
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is more than just a dish; it's a warm hug in a bowl. This classic recipe beautifully combines the earthy flavors of fresh broccoli with the rich creaminess of cheddar cheese. It's an ideal meal for those chilly evenings when you crave something comforting yet nutritious. Each spoonful is packed with flavor, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.
The vibrant green of the broccoli not only adds a pop of color to your bowl but also brings a wealth of vitamins and minerals. With each serving, you're not just indulging in a delicious meal; you're nourishing your body with essential nutrients. This soup is a perfect way to sneak in those greens, especially for picky eaters.
Easy and Quick Preparation
One of the best things about this Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delightful meal in under 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights, this soup allows you to enjoy a homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Just sauté, simmer, and blend your way to a comforting bowl of goodness.
Additionally, the use of an immersion blender means fewer dishes to wash, making clean-up a breeze. If you prefer a chunkier texture, feel free to skip the blending step or blend only half of the soup. This flexibility allows you to customize the soup to your liking while still delivering that creamy, cheesy experience.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is an excellent choice for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days, allowing you to enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and you'll have a comforting meal ready to go in no time.
For those looking to freeze portions, this soup holds up beautifully in the freezer. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process for best results.
Instructions
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Broccoli
Stir in the broccoli florets and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. You can also transfer it to a blender in batches if you prefer a creamier texture.
Stir in the Cream and Cheese
Return the pot to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or croutons if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup with a side of crusty bread!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Broccoli Cheddar Soup experience, consider garnishing it with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese or crispy croutons for added texture. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the flavor profile, making each bowl more indulgent. For a complete meal, pair the soup with a fresh side salad or a warm, crusty bread.
If you're feeling adventurous, try adding cooked bacon or ham for a smoky twist. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can also brighten the dish, adding a burst of flavor that complements the rich cheese.
Storage Tips
When it comes to storing your Broccoli Cheddar Soup, make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. This prevents condensation from forming, which can affect the soup's texture. Properly stored, the soup can last in the refrigerator for up to four days, ensuring you have a quick meal option at your fingertips.
For longer storage, consider freezing portions in individual containers. This way, you can easily defrost just what you need. Remember to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as the soup freezes.
Nutritional Benefits
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a fantastic choice for boosting your immune system and overall health. When combined with cheddar cheese, you also get a dose of calcium and protein, which are essential for strong bones and muscle health.
This soup is a wonderful way to incorporate vegetables into your diet, especially for those who may not enjoy eating them as part of their regular meals. It's a great example of how you can create a healthy, balanced dish that satisfies your cravings while nourishing your body.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly.
→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Ensure the vegetable broth is gluten-free and use a gluten-free thickener if needed.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! It can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a green salad, or a sandwich.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Warm and comforting, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the broccoli florets and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. You can also transfer it to a blender in batches if you prefer a creamier texture.
Return the pot to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or croutons if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 12g