Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and delicious dish that combines fresh broccoli, rich cheddar cheese, and a creamy base. This soup is perfect for chilly days and makes for a hearty meal or a delightful appetizer.

Ingredients List

For the Soup

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a bit of heat

Timing

Preparing Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup takes about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 40 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Melt Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Cook Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

1. Add Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

1. Blend: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
2. Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and heavy cream until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the blended soup, stirring to combine.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Season

1. Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
2. Season: Add salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle into Bowls: Serve the soup hot in bowls.
2. Garnish: Top with additional shredded cheese or croutons if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	12g
Fat	28g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fiber	3g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for varied flavors.
• Herb Enhancements: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

Conclusion

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the delightful flavors of broccoli and cheddar in a creamy base. Perfect for any occasion, this soup will warm your heart and delight your taste buds!

FAQs

Can I make the soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made a day in advance. The flavors will deepen overnight, and it can be reheated gently on the stovetop.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! You can use frozen broccoli; just adjust the cooking time as needed since it may cook faster than fresh broccoli.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal!