Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe: There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of broccoli cheese soup to soothe your soul on a chilly day. Packed with tender broccoli and rich, gooey cheddar, this comforting classic is beloved by many. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or as part of a weekend meal plan, this recipe will guide you step by step to achieve that perfect blend of creaminess and flavor.
Ready to dive into this bowl of goodness? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Soup
For this recipe, you’ll need some basic pantry staples and fresh produce. Here’s the full list:
Main Ingredients:
- Fresh broccoli (about 4 cups)
- Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded)
- Butter (4 tablespoons)
- Flour (1/4 cup)
- Chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups)
- Onion (1 medium, diced)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Heavy cream (1 cup)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional Add-ins:
- Carrots (for extra sweetness)
- Nutmeg (for a hint of warmth)
- Paprika or cayenne pepper (for spice lovers)
Ingredient Tips:
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli provides the best flavor and texture, but frozen broccoli works in a pinch.
- Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor. Pre-shredded cheese can be convenient but may not melt as smoothly due to added starch.
- Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Before you start cooking, gather the following tools:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Immersion blender (optional for pureeing)
- Ladle for serving
Having everything ready ensures a smoother cooking process. Now, let’s move on to the fun part—cooking!
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup – Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
The foundation of a great soup is in the prep work. Follow these steps to get your ingredients ready:
- Wash and chop the broccoli: Rinse your broccoli thoroughly under running water. Cut the florets into bite-sized pieces, and don’t forget to peel and chop the stalks—they’re full of nutrients and flavor!
- Dice the onion: Peel and finely dice a medium-sized onion. The smaller the pieces, the faster they’ll cook.
- Mince the garlic: Peel and mince two cloves of garlic. Garlic adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
- Grate the cheese: Freshly grate your cheddar cheese. This helps it melt more evenly without clumping.
By prepping everything in advance, you’ll have a smoother time managing the cooking steps.
Step 2: Making the Base of the Soup
A good base is essential for a rich, flavorful soup. Here’s how to create it:
- Melt the butter: In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Be careful not to let it brown.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the diced onions to the melted butter and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until they become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- Make a roux: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour into the pot and stir it continuously for 1-2 minutes. The flour-butter mixture (roux) will help thicken the soup later.
Step 3: Adding Broth and Simmering
Now it’s time to bring everything together with some liquid and simmering action.
- Pour in the broth: Slowly add 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to the roux while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Bring to a boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the broccoli: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the chopped broccoli to the pot. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Blending the Soup (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother soup, this step is for you.
- Blend with an immersion blender: Use an immersion blender to carefully puree the soup directly in the pot. If you don’t have one, you can transfer small batches to a regular blender.
- Leave it chunky: For a more rustic texture, only blend half of the soup or skip this step entirely. It’s all about personal preference!
Step 5: Adding the Cheese
This is where the magic happens!
- Reduce the heat: Lower the heat to prevent the cheese from curdling.
- Add the cheese gradually: Stir in the shredded cheddar a handful at a time. Allow each batch to fully melt before adding more.
- Keep stirring: Stir constantly to create a smooth, velvety texture.
Step 6: Final Touches
Almost done! Time to add the final flourishes.
- Season to taste: Add salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like. A pinch of nutmeg or paprika can elevate the flavor.
- Pour in the cream: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream for a rich, luscious finish. If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk.
Step 7: Serving the Soup
It’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor!
- Garnish: Top your soup with extra shredded cheese, croutons, or freshly chopped herbs.
- Serve: Pair your soup with crusty bread or a light salad for a satisfying meal.
Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup
To make sure your broccoli cheese soup turns out flawless every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli loses its bright green color and can turn mushy. Aim for tender but still vibrant pieces.
- Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese will give you the best texture and flavor.
- Use low heat when adding cheese: High heat can cause cheese to separate, leading to a grainy soup. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer before adding the cheese.
- Balance flavors: If your soup tastes too rich, add a splash of lemon juice or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to brighten the flavors.
Customizing the Recipe
Want to put your own spin on this classic dish? Here are a few ideas to customize the recipe to your taste:
- Make it vegetarian or vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and swap out the cheese and cream for plant-based alternatives like nutritional yeast, vegan cheddar, and coconut milk.
- Add extra veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding chopped carrots, celery, or cauliflower. They blend well with the flavors of broccoli and cheese.
- Incorporate protein: For a more filling meal, add cooked chicken, turkey, or ham. You can also add white beans or chickpeas for a vegetarian protein option.
- Kick up the spice: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce.
Nutritional Information
Broccoli cheese soup is not only delicious but also comes with some great health benefits, thanks to its star ingredient—broccoli.
Nutritional Highlights (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients)
- Protein: 15-20 grams
- Fat: 20-25 grams (from butter, cheese, and cream)
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Fiber: 3-4 grams
Health Benefits:
- Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. It supports immune health, bone health, and digestion.
- Cheddar cheese provides calcium and protein but should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat content.
To lighten the recipe, you can reduce the amount of cheese and cream or use lower-fat dairy options.
Storing and Reheating
Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your broccoli cheese soup without losing its creamy texture.
Storage:
- Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or milk to restore the creamy consistency if needed.
- Microwave: Reheat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.
Tip: If reheating from frozen, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
FAQs about Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
What type of cheese is best for broccoli cheese soup?
For a creamy and flavorful broccoli cheese soup, sharp cheddar is recommended because it melts well and provides a rich taste. However, you can also use other types of cheese like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different flavors and textures.
Can I make broccoli cheese soup without dairy?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of broccoli cheese soup by substituting plant-based milk and cheese. Almond, soy, or oat milk are good alternatives, and there are several vegan cheeses available that melt well and add a creamy texture.
Is broccoli cheese soup gluten-free?
Traditional broccoli cheese soup can be made gluten-free by using cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend as a thickener instead of regular flour. Always ensure all other ingredients, such as broth or stock, are gluten-free.
How can I thicken my broccoli cheese soup?
To thicken broccoli cheese soup, you can use a roux made from butter and flour at the beginning of cooking. Alternatively, adding a potato during cooking and then blending it with the soup can naturally thicken it without altering the flavor significantly.
What can I serve with broccoli cheese soup?
Broccoli cheese soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, croutons, or a light salad. For a heartier meal, you might consider serving it alongside a sandwich or a baked potato.
Can I freeze broccoli cheese soup?
It is possible to freeze broccoli cheese soup, but it may separate or become grainy due to the cheese and milk. If you plan to freeze it, consider adding the cheese after reheating rather than before freezing for better texture.
How do I reheat broccoli cheese soup?
Reheat broccoli cheese soup on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. If the soup is too thick, add a little milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
Broccoli cheese soup is a timeless comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll have a rich, creamy, and flavorful bowl of soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy solo meal or serve it to guests, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
So, grab your pot, fire up the stove, and get ready to create something delicious!
