Broccoli cheese soup is a hug in a bowl, bursting with creamy goodness that warms both your heart and your stomach. Imagine velvety cheese melting into tender broccoli florets, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. Each spoonful brings comfort, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up.
This delightful dish has been a staple in my kitchen for years, often reminding me of cozy family gatherings where laughter and warmth filled the air. It’s the kind of soup that invites everyone to come together, making it an excellent choice for those chilly nights or whenever you crave something hearty yet simple.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This broccoli cheese soup is incredibly easy to whip up on busy weeknights
- Its rich and cheesy flavor will have everyone asking for seconds
- The bright green color makes it visually appealing, adding a pop of freshness to your table
- Perfect as a main dish or paired with crusty bread for dipping!
I still remember the first time I made this soup; my friends couldn’t get enough of it and kept asking for my “secret” ingredient. Spoiler alert: it’s just love (and lots of cheese).
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Broccoli: Look for firm florets with vibrant green color; avoid yellowing or wilting.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choose high-quality cheese for maximum flavor; shredding it yourself yields better melting results.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness; feel free to substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; finely chop it for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide depth; use minced garlic for more intense flavor.
Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still delivering great flavor.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to balance the seasoning; it helps sauté the onions perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepping your ingredients is key! Gather everything before you start cooking to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Sautéing Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they’re translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic until golden.
Cooking the Broccoli: Toss in fresh broccoli florets along with vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the broccoli is tender but still bright green, roughly 10 minutes.
Blending the Soup: Carefully blend the mixture using an immersion blender until smooth. If you prefer some texture, blend just half of it and leave some chunks intact.
Adding Cream and Cheese: Stir in heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese gradually over low heat. Mix well until everything is melted and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Up**: Ladle your delicious broccoli cheese soup into bowls and garnish with additional cheddar or croutons if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread on the side for dipping!
This scrumptious broccoli cheese soup not only fills bellies but also warms souls—perfectly suited for any day that needs a little extra love!
You Must Know
- Broccoli cheese soup is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
- The creaminess combined with the vibrant green of broccoli creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen
- Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is both comforting and nutritious
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter until fragrant, then add broccoli and stock. This method builds layers of flavor, ensuring each spoonful bursts with deliciousness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheddar for Gruyère or add some crispy bacon on top. A sprinkle of nutmeg can also elevate the flavor profile, giving it a gourmet touch.
Storing & Reheating
Store broccoli cheese soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor
- Avoid boiling the soup too long to keep it vibrant and bright
- A splash of lemon juice can brighten up the dish beautifully
One chilly evening, I made this broccoli cheese soup for my family, and they couldn’t stop raving about it! It became an instant favorite at our dinner table.
FAQ
Can I freeze broccoli cheese soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just store it in containers and thaw before reheating.
What is the best cheese for this soup?
Sharp cheddar works best, but feel free to mix in your favorites!
How can I make it healthier?
Consider using low-fat milk or adding more veggies like carrots or cauliflower for extra nutrition.
Broccoli Cheese Soup
Warm up your evenings with this delightful broccoli cheese soup, a perfect blend of creamy cheddar and tender broccoli florets. Easy to prepare, this comforting dish is ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Each spoonful delivers rich flavors that will leave everyone asking for more.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the mixture using an immersion blender until smooth, or blend half for a chunkier texture.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese gradually over low heat until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar or croutons if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
