ADVERTISEMENT

Hearty and Comforting Broccoli and Cheddar Soup Recipe

ADVERTISEMENT

Introduction
Broccoli and Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm, creamy, and satisfying. With the vibrant, nutrient-rich flavor of broccoli paired with the rich, melty goodness of cheddar cheese, this soup is not only indulgent but also packed with vitamins and minerals. Whether served as a light meal or as a starter to a larger dinner, this easy-to-make soup is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
1 cup whole milk (or cream for extra richness)
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
Prepare the vegetables: Start by chopping the onion and garlic. Cut the broccoli into small florets, discarding the tough stems.

Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.

Cook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot, stirring for another 2-3 minutes. If you prefer a thicker soup, sprinkle in the flour at this stage and stir well to coat the broccoli and onions.

Simmer the soup: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and cooked through.

Blend the soup: Once the broccoli is tender, use an immersion blender to purée the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just a portion of the soup, leaving some of the broccoli pieces intact. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.

Add the milk and cheese: Stir in the milk (or cream for extra richness) and grated cheddar cheese. Continue to cook the soup on low heat, stirring frequently, until the cheese has melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy!

Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions: This soup is delicious on its own, but it pairs perfectly with a side of crusty bread or a light salad. For an extra touch, you can garnish with additional cheddar cheese, a drizzle of cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

Storing: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.

Freezing: Broccoli and Cheddar Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Variants:
Vegan Broccoli and Cheddar Soup: To make this soup vegan, substitute the butter with olive oil, use a plant-based milk (such as almond or coconut milk), and choose a dairy-free cheddar cheese alternative. You can also skip the cream for a lighter version.

Spicy Broccoli and Cheddar Soup: Add some heat by incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic.

Bacon Broccoli and Cheddar Soup: For a smoky flavor, fry up some bacon and crumble it into the soup just before serving. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that complements the creamy soup.

Loaded Broccoli and Cheddar Soup: Take the classic recipe up a notch by adding additional toppings such as sour cream, green onions, or crumbled crackers for extra texture.

FAQ:

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT