Creamy and Comforting: Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Welcome to a culinary journey of comfort and warmth with our tantalizing Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe. This classic soup combines the earthy goodness of broccoli with the rich creaminess of cheddar cheese, resulting in a dish that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or seeking a hearty lunch option, this soup is sure to hit the spot. Join us as we delve into the steps of creating this comforting masterpiece and discover the joy of homemade soup!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup diced yellow onions
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups milk
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 10 oz broccoli florets, chopped
- 3 cups shredded triple cheddar cheese blend
Instructions:
- Saute Onions: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and butter, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes until it turns golden brown.
- Add Liquid: Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Season: Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the soup.
- Add Broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot, stirring to combine. Allow the soup to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend: For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until desired smoothness is achieved. Alternatively, leave it chunky for a heartier texture.
- Add Cheese: Once the soup is blended, gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot, stirring until it melts and incorporates into the soup.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve: Ladle the hot Broccoli Cheddar Soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Creamier Texture: For an even creamier texture, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Extra Flavor: Enhance the flavor of the soup by adding a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of nutmeg.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a low-carb alternative. Use a combination of heavy cream and water instead of milk to reduce the carb content. Ensure the chicken broth is keto-friendly and free of added sugars.
- Low-Carb Option: Similarly, opt for a lower-carb vegetable such as cauliflower instead of broccoli. Reduce the amount of onions used or substitute with shallots for fewer carbs. Choose a cheese blend that is low in carbohydrates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. Simply thaw it before adding it to the soup, or adjust the cooking time accordingly if adding it directly from frozen.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup? While the soup can be frozen, the texture of the cheese may change upon thawing. It’s best to freeze the soup without the cheese and add it after reheating for the best results.
- What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup? This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad. You can also top it with crumbled bacon or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
In conclusion, Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, hearty broccoli florets, and rich cheddar cheese, this soup offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether enjoyed as a starter or as a meal on its own, this soup is a true crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch of this delicious soup, and savor the cozy comfort of Broccoli Cheddar Soup today!
