Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of broccoli cheese soup! It’s creamy, comforting, and absolutely packed with flavor that will warm your soul. Seriously, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a steaming bowl of this deliciousness. I love how the vibrant green broccoli florets peek out from the luscious, cheesy base—it’s not just a feast for the taste buds, but for the eyes too! This broccoli cheese soup is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or even a delightful starter for a gathering. The rich, velvety texture combined with the sharpness of cheddar cheese makes every spoonful a little moment of joy. Plus, it’s vegetarian, so it’s a fantastic option for everyone at the table. Trust me, once you give this recipe a try, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making a fantastic broccoli cheese soup! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy delight:
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh is best! Cut them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and fit nicely on your spoon.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Go for sharp cheddar for that extra punch of flavor. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
- 1 cup vegetable broth – This will form the base of your soup, so pick a good quality broth that you love.
- 1 cup milk – Whole milk gives a richer texture, but feel free to use low-fat milk if you prefer a lighter version.
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped – A sweet onion works great here, bringing a lovely aroma to your soup as it cooks.
- 1/4 cup butter – This will add a nice richness to the soup and help sauté the onions beautifully.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – This will help thicken the soup, giving it that luscious, creamy consistency we all crave.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Just a little sprinkle to elevate the flavor profile without overshadowing the broccoli.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always taste as you go! Seasoning will bring all the flavors together perfectly.
Once you have everything ready, you’re all set to create this comforting bowl of goodness. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Broccoli Cheese Soup
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s get this creamy broccoli cheese soup cooking! I promise the process is super simple and oh-so-rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious pot of soup in no time!
Step 1: Melt Butter
First things first, grab a medium pot and place it over medium heat. Add your 1/4 cup of butter and let it melt down. Keep an eye on it, and don’t let it brown too much—just a gentle melt is what we’re aiming for. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s all bubbly and inviting!
Step 2: Sauté Onion
Once the butter is melted, toss in your 1/2 cup of chopped onion. Sauté those bad boys for about 3–5 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. You’re looking for that lovely soft texture and a sweet aroma that fills your kitchen. It’s the perfect start to this soup!
Step 3: Add Flour
Now, sprinkle in the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions. Stir it all together until the flour is well combined with the onions. You want to cook this mixture for about a minute, which helps eliminate that raw flour taste. It should turn into a paste-like consistency, thickening slightly as you mix.
Step 4: Incorporate Liquid
Next, it’s time to bring in the liquids! Slowly pour in your 1 cup of vegetable broth and 1 cup of milk, all while stirring constantly. This is super important, as constant stirring prevents lumps from forming. You want a smooth and creamy base here. Keep stirring until everything is nicely combined and begins to thicken a bit.
Step 5: Add Broccoli and Garlic Powder
Now for the star of the show! Add in your 2 cups of broccoli florets and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir them in until they’re well coated with the creamy mixture. Allow this to cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until the broccoli becomes tender. You’ll want to keep checking it—the vibrant green color is just so inviting!
Step 6: Simmer
Once your broccoli is tender, reduce the heat slightly and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. This is the perfect time for all those flavors to meld together. Give it a taste and see how those flavors are developing. You’re almost there!
Step 7: Melt Cheese
Now comes the moment we’ve all been waiting for—adding the cheese! Stir in your 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and keep stirring until it melts into that creamy goodness. The texture will change to this velvety richness that makes you want to dive right in. Wow, it smells amazing!
Step 8: Season
Finally, it’s time to season your soup! Add salt and pepper to taste, making sure to adjust it to your liking. I always recommend tasting as you go—this is your soup, after all! Stir it well, and once you’re satisfied with the flavor, ladle it into bowls. Enjoy that comforting bowl of broccoli cheese soup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This broccoli cheese soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry, so it’s an easy recipe to whip up on a whim.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of cheddar cheese and milk creates a luxurious texture that’s hard to resist.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: With no meat in sight, this soup is a delicious option for vegetarian diets, yet it’s hearty enough to satisfy everyone.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for a personal twist, or even throw in some extra veggies!
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting bowl of goodness, making it a hit at any table!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food, this broccoli cheese soup not only satisfies your cravings but also offers some decent nutrition! Here’s an estimated breakdown of what you’re getting in each serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Sugar: 2g
Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always good to be aware of what’s in your food, but remember, this soup is all about enjoying that creamy, cheesy goodness!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your broccoli cheese soup turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to elevate your soup game:
- Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a velvety texture, consider blending the soup before adding the cheese. Just let it cool a bit, then use an immersion blender or carefully transfer it to a regular blender. It makes for an ultra-creamy experience!
- Cheese Choices: While I love sharp cheddar, don’t hesitate to mix it up! Try adding a bit of Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Just remember to keep it shredded for easy melting!
- Vegetable Boost: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Chop up some carrots or add a handful of spinach along with the broccoli. They’ll blend in beautifully and add vibrant color!
- Seasoning Game: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A pinch of cayenne or nutmeg can also add a delightful kick!
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, they can thicken as they sit. Just add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to get back to that creamy consistency.
With these little tips in your back pocket, you’re bound to impress everyone at the table with your delicious broccoli cheese soup!
FAQ About Broccoli Cheese Soup
I know you might have a few questions about making this delicious broccoli cheese soup, so let’s dive into some of the most common ones!
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine and can actually save you some prep time. Just make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup. It’ll still turn out delightful!
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Great question! To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with a little cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the soup to thicken it up.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Of course! If you want to add some protein, consider including cooked chicken or ham. Just toss it in after the cheese has melted, and let it warm through for a hearty twist!
What can I serve with broccoli cheese soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. You could even serve it in a bread bowl for a fun presentation! Trust me, dipping that bread into the creamy soup is pure bliss!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a good stir and add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring back that creamy texture!
With these FAQs in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to tackle any broccoli cheese soup adventure with confidence!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious broccoli cheese soup is super easy! Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend labeling it with the date, so you know when to enjoy that creamy goodness again!
When it comes to reheating, you have a couple of options. For the best results, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking. You might need to add a splash of milk or vegetable broth to bring back that luscious texture as it can thicken up a bit in the fridge. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave—just make sure to heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through. Enjoy every comforting spoonful again!
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Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup: A Cozy 30-Minute Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and delicious broccoli cheese soup that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter in a pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Sprinkle flour over onions and stir to combine.
- Slowly add vegetable broth and milk, stirring constantly.
- Add broccoli florets and garlic powder.
- Simmer until broccoli is tender.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, blend the soup before adding cheese.
- Use low-fat milk for a lighter option.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: broccoli cheese soup, creamy soup, vegetarian soup