why make this recipe
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for cold days. It combines the vibrant, nutritious goodness of broccoli with the creamy, rich flavor of cheddar cheese. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Whether you’re warming up after a long day or serving a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
how to make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour (all-purpose, whole wheat, or gluten-free)
- 3 cups less sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup fat-free milk
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
- 6 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces (about 2 heads)
- 1 and 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Chop the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic using a chopper or mini food processor.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the chopped vegetables, salt, and pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft.
- Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to ensure there are no lumps.
- Add the milk and increase the heat to high until it comes to a boil.
- Then, add the broccoli florets and Parmesan cheese, stirring well.
- Adjust salt and pepper to your taste.
- Cook uncovered over low heat until the broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender, blend part of the soup for a quick second or two. If you don’t have an immersion blender, remove about 1 to 2 cups of soup, blend it, and add it back to the pot to thicken.
- Gently stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra cheddar cheese if you like.
how to serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot in bowls. You can add extra shredded cheddar on top as a garnish for a nice touch. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. Enjoy this soup as a light lunch or a cozy dinner.
how to store Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Once the soup is cooled, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- For a thicker soup, blend more of the mixture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes for extra texture and nutrition.
- Experiment with different types of cheese if you want to change the flavor.
variation
You can make a vegan version of this soup by using vegetable broth, plant-based milk, and non-dairy cheese. This keeps it creamy and delicious while meeting dietary preferences.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as it may cook faster.
Is this soup gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour for the roux.
Can I add protein to the soup?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken or beans to make it heartier and more filling.
