Mary KellyWhen you think of broccoli cheddar soup, a few delightful companions immediately come to mind. A warm, crusty bread bowl ready to cradle that creamy goodness is always a favorite. Picture sitting by the fire during a chilly evening, your soup steaming as the bread absorbs all that velvety texture. A light green salad can also come in handy to balance the flavors. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup splendidly. For a more filling experience, consider grilled cheese sandwiches—a classic combination that never disappoints. Finally, a crisp glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, mingles well with the savory notes of the broth. These choices elevate your meal, making your dining experience complete.
You’ll Also Like These Recipes
Every bite of broccoli cheddar soup feels like a warm hug on a cold day. This delightful dish has won hearts worldwide with its blend of creamy textures and savory flavors. But what is it about this soup that stands out? It’s not just a dish; it’s a comforting experience that invites conversation and connection around the table. As someone who appreciates both taste and health, I want to guide you through this culinary delight. Let’s dive deeper into what makes broccoli cheddar soup not just a meal but a staple in many homes.
What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
At its core, broccoli cheddar soup is a creamy soup made primarily from broccoli and cheese, particularly cheddar. This dish usually features a base of butter, onions, and flour, with a few additional ingredients that enhance its flavor. It’s popular in many cafes and restaurants and often leaves guests returning for seconds and thirds. With its velvety texture and rich taste, broccoli cheddar soup is perfect on its own or as a heartwarming accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine a bowl filled with pure comfort—rich, creamy, and lusciously cheesy. The sharpness of the cheddar cheese perfectly contrasts with the subtle earthiness of broccoli. There are hints of onion and garlic, making every spoonful a delightful experience. The velvety soup glides across your palate, leaving you wanting more. It’s the kind of flavor that beckons you to slow down and savor each bite.
Why Does This Recipe Work?
Perfect Balance of Flavors: This recipe strikes a harmonious balance between the sharpness of cheddar and the earthiness of broccoli. Neither ingredient overpowers the other, leading to a pleasant interplay that satisfies your taste buds.
Creamy Yet Light Texture: With whole milk and butter, the soup achieves that creamy texture we crave without feeling overly heavy. The silky consistency makes each spoonful enjoyable, inviting for even those who typically shy away from soups.
Quick and Easy Preparation: You don’t need to be a culinary wizard to whip this up. The step-by-step method is straightforward and accessible, ensuring that even novice cooks can impress their friends and family.
Nutritious Ingredients: Broccoli is packed with vitamins K and C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. Coupled with the goodness of cheese, this soup not only satiates hunger but also nourishes the body, making it a true win-win.
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To create a comforting bowl of this delicious soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 5 tbsp unsalted European-style butter
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 2½ cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar, shredded
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (to enhance the cheddar flavor)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (adds warmth and depth)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish: 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the chopped onion and diced celery. Sauté these until they become soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This step is essential as it builds the base flavor for your soup.
Step 2: Add Flour and Stock
Once your vegetables are ready, sprinkle the flour over the mixture. Stir the flour in, cooking it for about 1 to 2 minutes. This helps to thicken the soup later. Gradually pour in the chicken stock while stirring continuously. This technique prevents lumps from forming. Bring this to a simmer, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Incorporate Broccoli and Milk
With your base now thickened, it’s time to add the broccoli florets. Stir them in along with the whole milk. Allow this to simmer for about 10 minutes until the broccoli becomes tender. It’s such a vibrant green at this stage that you’ll be tempted to dive in immediately.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Turn the heat down to low now, and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar. It’s like watching a masterpiece come together. Make sure to keep stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the soup becomes creamy. At this point, season with Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sample it! You want the flavors to sing just right.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls. Top with extra shredded cheddar for that cheesy goodness. You can also add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper if you desire. Serve immediately, and watch your friends and family light up with joy.
Notes
Here are some tips to keep in mind when making this delicious soup:
Quality Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for better flavor. The stronger the cheese, the more depth your soup will have.
Stir Constantly: When adding the flour and stock, stirring continuously prevents lumps, leading to that creamy consistency we all love.
Adjust the Thickness: If it turns out thicker than you prefer, simply stir in a bit more chicken stock or milk until you achieve your desired consistency.
Storage: If you’re making it ahead, consider storing the soup without the cheddar added. This helps prevent it from becoming grainy when reheating.
Frozen Broccoli: If you’re short on fresh broccoli, frozen florets can work just fine. Just add them in later as they’re already slightly cooked.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutrition data (for approximately one serving):
Remember, nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
How to Store the Leftovers?
After whipping up your delicious batch of broccoli cheddar soup, you might find yourself with some leftovers. No problems there! Cool the soup to room temperature and transfer it into an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags, laying them flat for easier storage. Just make sure to leave some space in the bags since liquids expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw and reheat on the stove.
Sides for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Pairing your soup with a side can enhance your meal even more. Here are some perfect matches:
Crusty Bread Bowl: There’s nothing quite like dipping crusty bread into your soup. It’s almost a tradition! The bread absorbs flavors while giving you that satisfying chew.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing! The gooey cheese and crispy bread complement the creaminess of the soup perfectly. It’s like a warm embrace on a plate.
Garden Salad: A light, fresh salad balances the richness of the soup well. Opt for ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty dressing to contrast the creamy texture.
Roasted Vegetables: If you want something warm on the side, roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts bring out the earthy flavors of your dish. It’s healthy and packed with nutrients!
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
Sometimes you might find you’re missing an ingredient or two. Here are some possible substitutes:
Chicken Stock Substitute: If you’re out of chicken stock or prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works wonderfully. It will still provide a savory note.
Whole Milk Alternative: Unsweetened almond or oat milk can make a creamy dairy-free substitute. Just note that it might alter the flavor slightly.
Cheddar Variety: If sharp cheddar is unavailable, feel free to use mild cheddar or try gruyere for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind, gruyere has a nuttier taste.
Dijon Mustard Replacement: If you don’t have Dijon mustard, regular yellow mustard can suffice. You’ll lose some complexity, but the dish will still be tasty.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the chopped onion and diced celery. Sauté these until they become soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This step is essential as it builds the base flavor for your soup.
- Once your vegetables are ready, sprinkle the flour over the mixture. Stir the flour in, cooking it for about 1 to 2 minutes. This helps to thicken the soup later. Gradually pour in the chicken stock while stirring continuously. This technique prevents lumps from forming. Bring this to a simmer, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly.
- With your base now thickened, it’s time to add the broccoli florets. Stir them in along with the whole milk. Allow this to simmer for about 10 minutes until the broccoli becomes tender. It’s such a vibrant green at this stage that you’ll be tempted to dive in immediately.
- Turn the heat down to low now, and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar. It’s like watching a masterpiece come together. Make sure to keep stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the soup becomes creamy. At this point, season with Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sample it! You want the flavors to sing just right.
- Finally, ladle the soup into bowls. Top with extra shredded cheddar for that cheesy goodness. You can also add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper if you desire. Serve immediately, and watch your friends and family light up with joy.
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works really well for this recipe. Just add it a little later in the cooking process since it’s already blanched and will cook faster.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If you find your soup is too thin, you can whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in as it simmers. This will create a thicker consistency.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving. It sometimes tastes even better the next day!
Is this soup suitable for kids?
Definitely! Most kids enjoy its creamy texture and cheesy flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your child’s preferences.
Conclusion
Broccoli cheddar soup has a unique way of connecting us to comfort and warmth. It’s about more than just flavor; it’s the stories shared around the dinner table. As you create and enjoy this recipe, think about all the moments it can bring to life. Whether you’re gathering with family or enjoying a quiet evening on your own, this soup stands as a testament to the joy of cooking and nourishment. So, grab your apron, invite a friend, and let’s get cooking. You’ll find it’s not just broccoli cheddar soup—it’s a hug in a bowl!
