Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Hey soup lovers! If you’re on the lookout for a warm and comforting dish to cozy up with, look no further. Today, we’re diving into the world of homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup—a classic that never fails to hit the spot. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home.
Ah, the magic of Broccoli Cheddar Soup on a cold winter day! There’s something truly special about this comforting concoction that makes it the perfect antidote to chilly weather.
What you need for broccoli cheese soup
- 4 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk (whole or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick
mAKE THIS FRESH BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and carrots, sautéing until they’re tender and fragrant.
Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the veggies, stirring constantly to form a roux. This will thicken the soup and give it that creamy texture we all love.
Add the Broccoli and Broth: Toss in the broccoli and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook until the broccoli is fork-tender.
Blend and Simmer: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, blend less; for a smoother texture, blend more.
Cheese Please: Reduce the heat to low, add the shredded cheddar cheese, and stir until it’s fully melted into the soup. Pour in the milk, stirring continuously.
Season to Perfection: Season with salt, pepper, and any optional extras like nutmeg or hot sauce. Taste and adjust until it’s just right for you.
Make It Your Own!
Protein Power: Enhance the soup by adding cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or even a handful of shredded rotisserie chicken.
Veggie Vibes: Get creative with additional vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or peas for an extra nutritional boost.
Spice It Up: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar, Gouda, or even a hint of blue cheese for a unique flavor twist.
What to Serve With Your Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or a slice of homemade garlic bread is perfect for dunking.
Simple Salad: Balance the richness of the soup with a crisp green salad topped with your favorite dressing.
Grilled Cheese: Classic comfort food pairing—grilled cheese sandwiches make the perfect sidekick.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers:
Refrigerating: Allow the soup to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for 3-4 days.
Freezing: Broccoli Cheddar Soup freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just be sure to stir periodically for even heating.
So there you have it, folks! A delightful Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Go ahead, get creative, and make it your own! Your taste buds will thank you.