Cheddar Broccoli Soup

This Cheddar Broccoli Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a delightful starter at gatherings, this creamy soup is packed with nutrients and satisfies your cravings. The blend of spices enhances the rich cheddar while the broccoli adds a pop of color and texture, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Made in one pot, this recipe saves you time on cleanup while delivering a delicious meal.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices like paprika and cayenne pepper takes this soup to the next level, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste.
• Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, you can easily customize it by adding proteins or extra vegetables.
• Kid-Friendly: This creamy soup is appealing to all ages, making it a fantastic option for family dinners.
• Hearty and Satisfying: With chunks of broccoli and carrots, every bowl is filling enough to keep you satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking the soup thoroughly, allowing all ingredients to blend perfectly.
• Whisk: Ensures that the flour is well incorporated without lumps when thickening the soup.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is easy, all in one pot! Bursting with flavor and made in no time, the secret to its deliciousness is all in the spices!

Ingredients:
– 7 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (1 onion)
– 1-1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
– 3/4 teaspoon paprika (I like smoked)
– 3/4 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper
– 6 tablespoons flour
– 32 ounces reduced-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
– 3 cups half-and-half (see note 1)
– 1 bay leaf (optional)
– 6 cups chopped broccoli (to bite-size pieces)
– 2 cups shredded carrots
– 12 ounces freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese (3-1/4 cups)
– Hearty buttered bread (optional, or serve in bread bowls)

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat 1 tablespoon butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden (3–5 minutes). Add garlic, paprika, mustard, cayenne, and pepper to taste (I add 1/2 teaspoon). Cook, stirring constantly, for 45 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Base

Add the remaining 6 tablespoons butter and melt. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, whisking constantly until it thickens.

Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients

Gradually whisk in chicken broth. Once combined, slowly add half-and-half while whisking continuously. Reduce heat to medium-low; add bay leaf if using. Simmer for about 15 minutes while whisking occasionally until nicely thickened.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables

While the soup simmers, chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces and shred cheese. Add broccoli and carrots to the mixture.

Step 5: Cook Until Tender

Let the soup cook on low for about 10–15 minutes or until the broccoli reaches your desired tenderness. Stir occasionally. For a smoother texture, you can blend some of the soup; however, I prefer leaving it chunky!

Step 6: Melt Cheese

Turn off the heat. Gradually stir in cheese by handfuls until fully melted. Taste your creation; adjust seasoning with salt as needed. (I usually add about half up to one teaspoon here!)

Step 7: Serve

Enjoy immediately! Serve your delicious Cheddar Broccoli Soup in bread bowls or alongside hearty buttered bread for dipping.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Cheddar Broccoli Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it in a bowl or as part of a meal, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

In Bread Bowls

• Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun and edible presentation. This method not only looks great but also allows you to enjoy the delicious bread after finishing the soup.

With Hearty Buttered Bread

• Pair the soup with slices of hearty buttered bread. The rich flavors of the buttered bread complement the creamy soup perfectly, making every bite satisfying.

Topped with Croutons

• Add a crunchy texture by sprinkling homemade or store-bought croutons on top of your soup. This adds an enjoyable contrast to the smoothness of the Cheddar Broccoli Soup.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, make for a vibrant garnish that can brighten up your bowl. They add both flavor and visual appeal to your dish.

With a Side Salad

• A light side salad can balance out the richness of the soup. Choose fresh greens and a simple vinaigrette to keep it refreshing and complementary.

As a Main Course

• Enjoy Cheddar Broccoli Soup as a filling main course. Its hearty ingredients make it substantial enough to stand alone as a meal, particularly on chilly days.

How to Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Creating the ultimate Cheddar Broccoli Soup requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese make a significant difference in flavor and texture. Always opt for fresh produce when possible.

• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add more flour at the beginning. For a thinner consistency, add extra broth or half-and-half gradually.

• Control Spice Levels: Taste as you go! Adjust spices like cayenne pepper according to your heat preference for optimal enjoyment.

• Blend for Smoothness: If you like a creamy texture, consider blending part of the soup before adding cheese. This creates an indulgent mouthfeel while keeping some chunks for bite.

• Incorporate Extra Veggies: Feel free to sneak in additional vegetables like cauliflower or spinach for added nutrition without compromising flavor.

• Experiment with Cheese Varieties: While sharp Cheddar is traditional, try mixing different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique taste profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Cheddar Broccoli Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its comforting qualities. Here are some tasty options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, providing an aromatic and flavorful addition.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a light contrast and brightens up your meal.
3. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad packed with veggies gives you extra protein and fiber while maintaining freshness alongside the creamy soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables can be both filling and nutritious, complementing the richness of the soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add depth to your meal while bringing out natural sweetness that balances well with Cheddar flavors.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch that pairs nicely with any creamy dish including this soup.
7. Veggie Spring Rolls: Light vegetable spring rolls provide a delightful crunch and can be dipped in soy sauce or peanut sauce for added flavor.
8. Simple Green Beans: Steamed green beans drizzled with olive oil make for an easy yet elegant side that adds color and nutrition to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheddar Broccoli Soup, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and final product. Here are key mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Stick to freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar for the best results.

• Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Add it only when the soup is almost ready and cook until just tender.

• Skipping the seasoning: Flavor is essential! Don’t forget to season your soup throughout the cooking process, especially after adding cheese.

• Not whisking enough: Flour lumps can ruin the texture of your soup. Whisk constantly when adding broth and half-and-half to avoid clumps.

• Ignoring the consistency: If you prefer a smoother soup, blend part of it after cooking. Adjust according to your texture preference!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Cheddar Broccoli Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in the container for expansion.

Reheating Cheddar Broccoli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot, usually about 2-4 minutes.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cheddar Broccoli Soup?

Cheddar Broccoli Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish made with fresh broccoli and sharp Cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner!

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes! You can easily substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth in this recipe while keeping the flavors rich and delicious.

How can I customize my Cheddar Broccoli Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach, or mix in spices like thyme or nutmeg for added depth.

Is there a vegan alternative for Cheddar Broccoli Soup?

To make it vegan, use plant-based cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives while following the same cooking method.

How do I thicken my Cheddar Broccoli Soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, blend part of it after cooking or add more flour during preparation.

Final Thoughts

This creamy Cheddar Broccoli Soup is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to make. You can customize it with various vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Try it today and enjoy a comforting bowl that warms both body and soul!