A warm bowl of Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This creamy soup is packed with flavor and goodness, making it a great dish for lunch, dinner, or as an appetizer. With its delightful blend of broccoli and cheddar, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and rich taste, ensuring everyone will love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of broccoli and cheddar creates a rich, creamy taste that warms the soul.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it in a sourdough bread bowl or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies and protein from cheese, this soup is both filling and healthy.
- Customizable: Feel free to add extra vegetables or spices to make it your own!
Tools and Preparation
Preparing Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is simple with the right tools. Having the right equipment on hand will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without spillage.
- Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly, preventing lumps in your base.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ onion (chopped)
- ⅓ cups all purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken stock
Vegetables
- 1 celery stalk (finely diced)
- 2½ cup broccoli (chopped into bite sized pieces)
Dairy
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded cheddar (2 cups plus 1 cup for topping)
Seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Place a large pot over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sweat it for about 5 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Whisk in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes until it’s lightly golden.
Step 3: Add Chicken Stock
Stir in the chicken stock while seasoning generously with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Cook Vegetables
Add the diced celery and chopped broccoli. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer until the vegetables are tender, around 15 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate Milk
Stir in the whole milk. Continue to simmer until the soup thickens enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon, about 2-3 minutes. The texture should remain soupy.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar in small handfuls, allowing each addition to melt before adding more cheese.
Step 7: Final Seasoning
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with additional cheddar if desired. Serve hot!
Enjoy your bowl of delicious Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, perfect for any meal!
How to Serve Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your soup experience.
In a Bread Bowl
- Serve the soup in a sourdough bread bowl for a fun and edible presentation. The bread absorbs the flavors, adding an extra layer of taste.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair the soup with slices of crusty baguette or artisanal bread. They are perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of the creamy soup.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added color and flavor. This brings a fresh touch to the rich cheddar taste.
With a Side Salad
- Serve alongside a light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad complements the creamy soup beautifully.
Drizzled with Olive Oil
- A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top enhances the flavor profile. It adds richness and makes the dish look more appealing.
With Spicy Croutons
- Add some crunch by topping your soup with spicy croutons. They provide texture and an extra kick that contrasts well with the smooth soup.
How to Perfect Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To make your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup even more delicious, consider these helpful tips that will ensure each bowl is packed with flavor and creaminess.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh broccoli and high-quality cheddar cheese. Fresh ingredients greatly enhance the overall taste of your soup.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Seasoning with salt and pepper at different stages can help achieve a well-balanced flavor.
Control Thickness: If you prefer a thinner consistency, feel free to add more chicken stock or milk until it reaches your desired thickness.
Melt Cheese Gradually: Add cheese in small amounts, allowing it to melt completely before adding more. This ensures a smoother texture without clumps.
Experiment with Spices: Try adding spices like garlic powder or cayenne pepper for extra depth and heat, enhancing the flavor profile of your soup.
Allow Time to Cool: Letting the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld together more effectively before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread makes for an irresistible side that everyone loves.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crunch and tanginess, balancing nicely against the creamy texture of the soup.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, vegetables, or quinoa offer a hearty addition that complements the flavors of broccoli cheddar.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add nutrition and flavor, making them an excellent accompaniment to your comforting soup.
Quiche Lorraine: This cheesy quiche provides protein and pairs wonderfully with the richness of broccoli cheddar soup.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a satisfying contrast to the creamy nature of the soup.
Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad adds variety to your meal; choose one loaded with fresh vegetables for added color.
Fruit Platter: For a refreshing finish, serve a platter of seasonal fruits; their natural sweetness can lighten up this hearty dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the broccoli too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on your vegetables and simmer just until tender.
- Ignoring the Cheese Melting Technique: Adding all the cheese at once can lead to clumps. Gradually add cheese in small handfuls, waiting until it melts before adding more.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well and can affect the flavor. Opt for a good-quality cheddar for the best results.
- Not Seasoning Properly: Under-seasoning can make the soup bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout cooking.
- Skipping the Broth: Using only water might compromise flavor. Always use chicken stock or vegetable broth for a richer taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3–4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2–3 months.
Reheating Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake in a covered dish until heated through, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat while stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, we’ve got you covered!
Can I make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this soup a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
How can I customize my Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for extra flavor and nutrition!
Is it possible to make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk and use plant-based cheese alternatives.
What should I serve with my Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with sourdough bread bowls or a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Final Thoughts
Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a cozy dish that brings comfort to any meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it perfect for lunch or dinner. Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Warm up with a bowl of Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup—a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, this soup delivers a deliciously satisfying flavor that will please your palate. Ideal for busy weeknights, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a quick go-to for lunch or dinner. Enjoy it on its own or paired with crusty bread for dipping, and feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. This wholesome soup is not only tasty but also nutritious, providing a delightful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
Ingredients
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ onion (chopped)
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 celery stalk (finely diced)
- 2½ cups broccoli (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (for the soup and topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and add chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually stir in the chicken stock, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Add diced celery and chopped broccoli; bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer until veggies are tender (about 15 minutes).
- Stir in whole milk and simmer until thickened (2–3 minutes).
- Remove from heat and gradually stir in shredded cheddar until melted.
- Adjust seasoning, top with extra cheddar if desired, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Feel free to experiment with additional spices like garlic powder or cayenne pepper. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more chicken stock or milk.
