Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate bowl of creamy, cheesy comfort. Bursting with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a velvety texture, it’s a classic that never fails to warm you up. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a cozy night in, this soup brings all the richness of your favorite café-style version right to your kitchen simple, hearty, and soul-satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into florets
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Cook the broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli and pour in the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
3. Blend (optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or transfer to a blender in batches. For a chunkier texture, skip this step.
4. Add cream & cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring over low heat until the cheese melts completely and the soup becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Season: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and serve warm, garnished with extra shredded cheddar, croutons, or a sprinkle of black pepper.

Variation

• Add Carrots: Include finely shredded carrots for extra color and sweetness.
• Make It Spicy: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or a few drops of hot sauce for a gentle kick.
• Use a Cheese Blend: Try mixing sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for added creaminess and complexity.

Cooking Notes

• Cheese Tip: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melt — pre-shredded varieties can clump due to anti-caking agents.
• Avoid Boiling After Adding Cheese: Keep the heat low to prevent the cheese from curdling or separating.
• Texture Preference: Blend just part of the soup for a mix of creamy base and tender broccoli chunks.

Serving Suggestions

• Bread Bowl Fun: Serve your soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a restaurant-style experience.
• Perfect Pair: Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwich for a complete, cozy meal.

Tips

• Use Sharp Cheddar: Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar provides the best flavor punch.
• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg to deepen the creaminess or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for umami richness.
• Adjust Thickness: If your soup becomes too thick, stir in a bit more broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 360
• Protein: 16g
• Sodium: 880mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Yes — just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
2. Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
   It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly over low heat while stirring to restore its creamy texture.
3. Can I use milk instead of cream?
   Yes, but the soup will be lighter in texture. Whole milk or half-and-half works best for a balanced creaminess.
4. Why is my soup grainy?
   This can happen if the cheese is added over high heat. Reduce the temperature before stirring in the cheese for a smooth, velvety result.

Conclusion

Warm, cheesy, and incredibly comforting, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup delivers cozy satisfaction in every spoonful. Whether served as a starter, side, or main dish, it’s the kind of homemade comfort food that never goes out of style. Pair it with crusty bread, a crisp salad, or a cozy blanket it’s comfort in its purest form.

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