When it comes to satisfying comfort food, few dishes rival the creamy goodness of Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This classic recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, with just a handful of simple ingredients and a mere 30 minutes of your time. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal for lunch or dinner, this hearty soup is sure to hit the spot.
The Perfect Blend of Creamy and Cheesy:
At the heart of this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a velvety-smooth base made from a roux of melted butter and diced onions, thickened with a touch of all-purpose flour. To achieve that luscious creaminess, we add a generous amount of heavy cream and chicken broth, creating a luxurious texture that coats the palate with every spoonful.
A Symphony of Flavors:
But what truly elevates this soup to culinary greatness is the dynamic duo of broccoli and cheddar cheese. Tender broccoli florets and julienned carrots simmer in the broth until they’re perfectly softened, infusing the soup with their vibrant colors and earthy flavors. Then comes the pièce de résistance: a generous helping of shredded cheddar cheese, whose sharp tanginess adds depth and richness to the dish.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 white onion, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth
- 1/2 pound (about 250 grams) of broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup of carrots, julienned
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Paprika (optional)
How To Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe
- Begin by heating a soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the melted butter, followed by the diced onion. Sauté the onion for about 2 minutes, until it becomes lightly browned and fragrant.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and butter, stirring continuously. Cook the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook slightly.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep stirring constantly to prevent the flour from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Once the cream and broth are well combined, add the broccoli florets and julienned carrots to the pot. Allow the soup to come to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and cooked through.
- Season the soup with salt and ground black pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your taste preferences.
- For a smoother texture, carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the blended mixture to the pot and stir to combine.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the mixture.
- Serve the Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot, garnished with additional shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Cheesy Goodness: For an even cheesier soup, stir in some extra shredded cheddar cheese just before serving. You can also experiment with different types of cheese like Gruyère or Swiss for unique flavor twists.
- Vegetarian Option: Make this soup vegetarian-friendly by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’s equally delicious and perfect for those avoiding meat.
- Texture Preference: If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip blending half of the mixture. Simply use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the vegetables in the pot before adding the cheese.
- Add Some Heat: Spice up your soup by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
How to Store:
- Store any leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli and carrots can be substituted for fresh. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This soup reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. Prepare it in advance and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
Q: Can I make this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener.
Q: What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
A: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize this soup by adding vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Q: How can I make this soup lighter?
A: To make a lighter version of this soup, you can use milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese. Alternatively, you can use low-fat cheese or a combination of cheeses for a lighter option.
In Conclusion:
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day, a culinary hug that soothes the soul and satisfies the senses. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and effortless preparation, this timeless classic is sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food experience.
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