Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Introduction

When the weather turns chilly or you’re craving something cozy and comforting, nothing beats a bowl of homemade broccoli cheese soup. This rich and creamy soup combines the perfect balance of tender broccoli, smooth milk, and sharp cheddar cheese, making it a meal everyone will love. The combination of butter, garlic, and onions provides a flavorful base, while the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese give the soup an indulgent creaminess. This recipe is simple to prepare and yields a hearty bowl of soup that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish for a light lunch or as a starter for a dinner party, this broccoli cheese soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s customizable—you can easily add more cheese, adjust the seasoning, or add some extra vegetables to suit your preferences. So grab your pot and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan creates a rich, creamy texture that is perfectly balanced by the fresh broccoli.
2. Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and easily, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting.
3. Healthy and Hearty: Packed with fresh broccoli, this soup offers a good dose of vegetables in a delicious way, making it both nutritious and satisfying.
4. Customizable: Whether you prefer a smoother texture or a chunkier soup, you can adjust the consistency to your liking by blending more or less of the soup.
5. Perfect for Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• Butter (cut into 1 Tbsp pieces)
• Yellow onion (finely chopped)
• Garlic (finely minced)
• All-purpose flour
• Low-fat milk
• Low-sodium chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Fresh broccoli florets (finely chopped)
• Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Parmesan cheese (finely shredded)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Variations

• Add Protein: For a heartier soup, consider adding cooked chicken or bacon bits.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
• Smooth Texture: If you prefer a smoother soup, blend the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender until creamy.

How to Make the Recipe

1. Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Flour: Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
3. Add the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the low-fat milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the soup begins to thicken.
4. Add the Broccoli: Stir in the chopped broccoli florets and let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
5. Add the Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, sharp cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
6. Season: Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional shredded cheddar cheese for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more milk, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: For the best texture and flavor, avoid overcooking the broccoli. It should be tender but still vibrant and green.
• Shred the Cheese Yourself: For the best texture, shred the cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
• Use Full-Fat Cream for Extra Richness: For a richer and more indulgent soup, use full-fat heavy cream instead of the low-fat version.

How to Serve

Broccoli cheese soup is best served with a warm, crusty bread for dipping. You can also serve it with a side salad or pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete, comforting meal. For an added touch, sprinkle some extra cheese and fresh herbs on top just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen, but keep in mind that dairy-based soups may change texture when frozen. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick after reheating, add a splash of milk to thin it out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, frozen broccoli works fine in this recipe, but fresh broccoli gives a better texture and flavor.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can make the soup a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.
3. Can I make this soup dairy-free? Yes, you can substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, and vegan cheese.
4. Can I use different cheese? Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
5. How can I make the soup thicker? If you want a thicker soup, cook it for a bit longer to reduce the liquids or add a little extra flour at the beginning.
6. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping? Gradually add the cheese in batches and stir constantly to help it melt smoothly.
7. Can I add other vegetables to this soup? Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or potatoes for added texture and flavor.
8. How can I make the soup spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
9. Can I use regular milk instead of low-fat milk? Yes, you can substitute regular milk or even half-and-half for a richer soup.
10. Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, you can make this in a slow cooker by sautéing the onions and garlic first, then adding the remaining ingredients to the slow cooker and cooking on low for 4-6 hours.

Conclusion

This broccoli cheese soup is a classic comfort food that combines creamy textures with the freshness of broccoli and the sharpness of cheddar cheese. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal or as an appetizer, this soup is sure to satisfy. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade bowl of broccoli cheese soup in no time.

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