Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting dish that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or as a delightful lunch option. With its vibrant green broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, this soup stands out for its creamy texture and flavorful depth. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or homemade croutons, it’s sure to impress at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli creates a deliciously satisfying soup.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices or add extra vegetables based on your preference.
• Kid-Friendly: This soup is a great way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking all ingredients evenly while providing enough space for stirring.
• Whisk: Helps blend flour with the broth smoothly, preventing clumps for a creamy texture.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables.
• Cutting board: Keeps your workspace organized while prepping ingredients.

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Ingredients

For this delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients

• 8 Tablespoons Butter (divided)
• 1 large Onion (finely diced)
• 1 large Carrot (shredded or finely diced)
• 3 Garlic Cloves (minced)

Thickening Agents

• 1/2 cup Flour (or cornstarch)
• 3 cups Chicken Broth (if you want a thicker soup, use 2 1/2 cups)

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon Dried Mustard Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Pepper

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups Broccoli (chopped)
• 2 1/2 cups Half-n-Half
• 3 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (grated)

Optional Additions

• 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• Garlic Butter Homemade Croutons (optional)

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add 4 Tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
3. Add onions and carrots; cook for about 7-8 minutes, stirring often.
4. Add garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 2: Create the Base

1. Add the remaining 4 Tablespoons of butter to the pot.
2. Stir in flour until well combined.
3. Gradually add chicken broth while whisking to mix thoroughly.
4. Incorporate dried mustard powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Simmer with Broccoli

1. Add chopped broccoli and half-n-half to the mixture.
2. Allow the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes or until the broccoli is softened.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Serve

1. Gradually mix in cheese, adding it in increments of ½ cup while stirring well after each addition to maintain creaminess.
2. Taste for seasoning; adjust salt and pepper if necessary.
3. Serve hot with homemade garlic butter croutons or buttery crusty bread for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate your meal experience. Whether you enjoy it solo or with accompaniments, these suggestions will enhance your dining.

With Homemade Garlic Butter Croutons

• Add croutons for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy soup. The garlic butter flavor adds an extra layer of taste.

With Buttery Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

As a Starter

• Offer small bowls of soup as a starter before the main course. This sets a comforting tone for the meal ahead.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This makes for an impressive presentation and adds flavor.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating a perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is creamy and flavorful.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality cheese make a significant difference in taste and texture.

• Gradually Add Cheese: Stir in cheese slowly, allowing it to melt completely before adding more. This prevents clumping and ensures creaminess.

• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or add more flour.

• Season to Taste: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper based on your preference for seasoning.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Broccoli Cheddar Soup can turn your meal into something special. Here are some great options:

1. Garden Salad
   A fresh garden salad adds crunch and balances out the richness of the soup.

2. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   These can be filled with rice, vegetables, or ground turkey for a hearty side that complements the flavors of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables provide added nutrients and contrast nicely with the creamy texture of the soup.

4. Cheesy Garlic Bread
   This indulgent side pairs perfectly with Broccoli Cheddar Soup, enhancing its cheesy flavor profile even further.

5. Quiche
   A slice of quiche offers protein and can be made with various fillings like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.

6. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a delightful companion to dip into your soup.

7. Pasta Salad
   A light pasta salad can serve as a refreshing contrast while keeping you satisfied alongside the rich soup.

8. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   The classic combination of grilled cheese sandwiches is always a hit when served alongside creamy soups like this one!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the roux: Not making a roux with butter and flour can lead to a soup that’s not creamy. Always cook the butter and flour together before adding liquids.
• Adding cheese too quickly: If you dump all the cheese in at once, it may clump together. Gradually add cheese, stirring well after each addition for a smooth texture.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese can affect flavor and creaminess. Invest in good sharp cheddar for the best taste.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper for balanced flavors.
• Overcooking broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can cause it to lose color and texture. Add it later in the cooking process to maintain its vibrant green hue.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Pour soup into an oven-safe dish, cover, and bake until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, heat on medium power, stirring every minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Broccoli Cheddar Soup that many people have.

Can I use frozen broccoli for Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just add it directly to the soup during cooking. The cooking time may need slight adjustments.

How do I make this Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?

To make a vegan version, use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives. Ensure vegetable broth replaces chicken broth as well.

What is the best way to serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or homemade croutons. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick too!

Can I customize my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower. You can also experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients. Try this recipe today and enjoy its rich flavors!

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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up on a chilly evening or enjoying as a satisfying lunch. Bursting with vibrant green broccoli and rich sharp cheddar cheese, this soup offers a velvety texture and depth of flavor that will delight your taste buds. It’s an easy recipe that comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Pair it with crunchy homemade croutons or a slice of warm crusty bread for a truly enjoyable meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 1 large onion (finely diced)
• 1 large carrot (shredded or finely diced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 cup flour (or cornstarch)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups broccoli (chopped)
• 2 1/2 cups half-and-half
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the onions and carrots; cook for 7-8 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and sauté for another minute.
2. Add the remaining butter and stir in flour until well combined. Gradually whisk in chicken broth while mixing thoroughly.
3. Incorporate chopped broccoli and half-and-half, allowing the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
4. Gradually stir in the cheddar cheese, adding it in increments while ensuring it melts completely before adding more.
5. Season to taste and serve hot with optional homemade croutons or crusty bread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 385
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 810mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Fresh ingredients yield the best results; opt for quality broccoli and cheese. For a thicker soup, reduce chicken broth or add more flour. Customize by adding other vegetables or spices to suit your taste.