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Ah, Broccoli Cheddar Soup—what a delightful hug in a bowl! I remember when I first discovered this creamy treasure on a chilly Saturday afternoon. I was in my kitchen, savouring the aromas of sautéed onions mingling with fresh garlic, both simmering softly on the stovetop. The smell danced around me, inviting me closer, while the vibrant green of the broccoli made my heart sing. Each spoonful was a cozy embrace, the rich cheddar melting away any worries I had. It’s been a family favorite ever since, and I can’t help but think it will quickly become a cherished recipe in your home as well.
Picture this: a spoonful of warm, cheesy goodness, bright and fresh from the broccoli, evoking images of cozy sweater weather and evenings spent lingering around the dinner table. You’re going to love this recipe, and I’ve got all the tips you need to make it as wonderful as I always remember!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Whip up this soup in just 30 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Healthy Goodness: Packed with nutritious broccoli and delicious flavors, it’s a wholesome meal you can feel good about.
- Creamy Comfort: This luscious soup has a delightful cheesy texture that will satisfy your cravings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights with friends; everyone loves it!
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and save some for later. Dinner sorted for busy days!
Ingredients
2 cups broccoli florets
Feel free to chop up the broccoli into bite-sized pieces so it blends smoothly. Fresh or frozen works, but fresh can give a more vibrant flavor!1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Opt for sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese punch! Grating your own cheese makes it melt more smoothly—just saying!1 medium onion, diced
This adds a lovely depth of flavor; sauté it until it’s translucent for that sweet aroma.2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic is the magic touch! The fragrance as it cooks will make your kitchen feel like home4 cups vegetable broth
Use low-sodium broth if you prefer a little more control over the saltiness. Homemade broth is a game changer!1 cup milk
Whole milk or a lighter option—your choice! It helps achieve a creamy finish without being too heavy.2 tablespoons olive oil
Use it to sauté the onions and garlic—adds a drizzle of healthy fat!Salt and pepper to taste
Adjust seasonings to your liking—it’s your soup after all!
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them cook until the onion is soft and translucent—around 5 minutes. The sweet, savory smell will be irresistible!
2. Add Broccoli and Broth
Next, toss in those beautiful broccoli florets along with your vegetable broth. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to simmer. Allow this to bubble away until the broccoli is tender—about 10-15 minutes. You’ll love the bright green hue and fresh aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Blend for Creaminess
Once the broccoli is tender, remove the pot from heat and grab your immersion blender. Blend until the soup is super smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a traditional blender in batches. Just be cautious—super hot soup!
4. Stir in Milk and Cheese
Return the pot to low heat and stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Watch as the cheese melts and creates a dreamy, creamy consistency. Give it a good mix until everything is combined.
5. Season and Serve
Add salt and pepper to taste—this is where the flavor really pops! Serve it warm, and make sure to enjoy those cozy vibes!
Pro Tips for Success
- Always keep an eye on the garlic; it can go from fragrant to burnt in a flash!
- Don’t skip on blending the soup thoroughly for that velvety texture.
- Try using a mix of cheeses for a fun flavor twist—like Monterey Jack or Gruyère!
Flavor Variations
- Craving a bit of spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce!
- Looking for a seasonal twist? Toss in a cup of diced carrots or sweet potatoes for sweetness.
- Want an herby touch? A teaspoon of thyme or a sprinkle of nutmeg would elevate the flavors beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy soup with some crusty bread for dipping, a fresh garden salad for crunch, or even a simple grilled cheese sandwich for full-on coziness. As for drinks, a light white wine or sparkling water can round out the meal beautifully!
Make-Ahead & Storage
If you’re planning to enjoy this soup later, make it ahead of time! Allow it to cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove until warmed throughout.
Leftovers
Oh, leftovers can be such a joy! Use it as a sauce over pasta, a base for a cheesy casserole, or even in a savory risotto—no food waste here!
Freezing
Yes, this soup can be frozen! Just let it cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers—leave some space for expansion. It’ll keep well for about 2-3 months.
Reheating
Reheat in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring often. You can also use the microwave, stirring every minute to ensure even heating. If it’s too thick after freezing, just whisk in a splash of milk!
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great and simplifies prep time.
How can I make it vegan?
Swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use almond milk or oat milk instead—delicious!
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just make sure your pot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
What if I prefer a chunkier soup?
Feel free to blend just half of the soup or set aside some broccoli florets before blending!
Final Thoughts
Oh, friends, there’s something so comforting about a steaming bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup! I encourage you to gather your ingredients, turn up the warmth in your kitchen, and let the memories of cozy meals unfold. Share this soup with loved ones or treat yourself to a comforting evening alone. Whichever way you enjoy it, I know it will warm your heart, just as it does mine. Happy cooking from my cozy kitchen to yours! 🍲💚
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook until the broccoli is tender (about 10-15 minutes).
- Remove from heat and blend the soup until super smooth using an immersion blender or a traditional blender in batches.
- Return the pot to low heat and stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.