Broccoli Cheese Soup

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Broccoli Cheese Soup is the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for cold days or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal. Packed with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a velvety smooth texture, this soup is quick to prepare and a favorite for family dinners or gatherings. Pair it with crusty bread or enjoy it as is for a complete, flavorful dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Cheese Soup is easy to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. It uses simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen, making it budget-friendly and accessible. The balance of creamy cheese and fresh broccoli makes it both indulgent and nutritious. Plus, it’s versatile—adjust the thickness or add extra vegetables to suit your taste

Ingredients

• Butter: 4 tablespoons (for sautéing and adding richness)
• Onion: 1 small, finely chopped (for a sweet, aromatic base)
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (for depth of flavor)
• Flour: 4 tablespoons (for thickening the soup)
• Chicken or vegetable broth: 4 cups (to create the soup base)
• Heavy cream: 2 cups (for creaminess)
• Fresh broccoli: 4 cups, chopped into small florets (the star of the dish)
• Carrots: 1 cup, shredded (for sweetness and color)
• Sharp cheddar cheese: 2 cups, shredded (for rich, cheesy flavor)
• Salt and pepper: To taste (for seasoning)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Create the Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
3. Add Liquid: Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook Vegetables: Stir in the broccoli florets and shredded carrots. Cover and let the vegetables cook for 15 minutes or until tender.
5. Blend the Soup (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, leaving some broccoli pieces intact for texture.
6. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese melts and the soup is velvety.
7. Season: Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheese or a sprinkle of parsley, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is best served hot with a side of crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or even a grilled cheese sandwich. For a lighter option, pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Variations

• Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, diced ham, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
• Make It Spicy: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
• Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour or xanthan gum as a thickener instead of regular flour.
• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freeze: Broccoli Cheese Soup can be frozen, but note that the texture may change slightly due to the cream and cheese. To freeze, let the soup cool completely and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
   Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Simply adjust the cooking time since frozen florets cook faster than fresh ones.
2. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
   Shred your cheese freshly from a block and add it slowly, stirring continuously. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can cause clumping.
3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
   Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use a plant-based cheese alternative.
4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
   You can substitute it with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
5. How can I make the soup thicker?
   For a thicker soup, increase the flour or blend more of the broccoli.