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Author: SophieBennet
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Broccoli Cheese Soup: A Comforting Classic

Introduction

Did you know that a warm, creamy bowl of broccoli cheese soup can provide nearly 50% of your daily recommended Vitamin C intake? This delightful soup not only warms the soul but is also bursting with nutrition. If you’ve been searching for a satisfying and easy recipe that brings family and friends together, look no further! In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make a delicious broccoli cheese soup that is both comforting and nourishing.

Ingredients List

To create the perfect broccoli cheese soup, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets (feel free to substitute with frozen broccoli if needed)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped (yellow or white for sweetness)
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced (add more if you’re a garlic lover!)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (chicken broth works well too)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for bold flavor)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter if preferred)
  • Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick
Broccoli Cheese Soup upscaled 68afb911e6475

Timing

This broccoli cheese soup is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

  • Preparation time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking time: 30 minutes
  • Total time: 40 minutes (that’s 20% less time than the average soup recipe!)

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broccoli and Broth

Once the aromatics are ready, stir in the fresh broccoli florets. Add the vegetable or chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

Broccoli Cheese Soup upscaled 68afb98a4c334

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth, leaving some texture if desired. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender—just be sure to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid any splatter.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Once blended, slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Then, gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and combined. This step is where the soup gets its creamy, indulgent texture!

Nutritional Information

The broccoli cheese soup is not only delicious but packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a detailed nutritional breakdown per serving:

  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For those looking to lighten up this recipe without sacrificing flavor, consider these alternatives:

  • Use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream.
  • Choose a mix of half cheddar and half a lower-fat cheese.
  • Include other vegetables like carrots and cauliflower for added nutrients.
  • Swap out traditional flour for whole grain or a gluten-free option to thicken the soup if desired.
Broccoli Cheese Soup upscaled 68afba7ab7ef4

Serving Suggestions

To make your broccoli cheese soup truly inviting, consider these serving ideas:

  • Serve with a side of crusty bread or homemade croutons for a delightful crunch.
  • Top with a sprinkle of additional cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
  • For a gourmet touch, drizzle with a bit of truffle oil before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking the Broccoli: Make sure to simmer until just tender to retain that vibrant green color and full flavor.
  • Not Blending Properly: Avoid a gritty texture by ensuring the soup is blended smoothly.
  • Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Incorporating cheese gradually will prevent clumping and ensure a creamy finish.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers, here’s how to preserve your delicious broccoli cheese soup:

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
  • You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just make sure to cool completely before freezing.

Conclusion

In just 40 minutes, you can enjoy a flavor-packed broccoli cheese soup that’s both creamy and nutritious. Try this recipe today and share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious updates and cooking tips.

FAQs

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the recipe vegan-friendly.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar cheese adds a wonderful flavor, but you can mix it with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique taste. Experiment to find your perfect blend!

How can I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold milk or broth and add it to the simmering soup, whisking constantly until it thickens.

Can I add other vegetables?

Sure! Carrots, cauliflower, and even potatoes work well in this soup, adding different textures and flavors. Just chop them to similar sizes as the broccoli for even cooking.

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Broccoli Cheese Soup

Irresistible Broccoli Cheese Soup Creamy Comforting Delight


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  • Author: sophiebennet
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in this creamy comforting delight Broccoli Cheese Soup Perfectly blended flavors make it an irresistible dish for any occasion


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes

  • Instructions

  • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the fresh broccoli florets and add the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce the heat, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
  • Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth, leaving some texture if desired.
  • Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly, then gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and combined.
    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cook Time: 30 minutes
    • Category: Soup
    • Cuisine: American

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 bowl
    • Calories: 350 calories
    • Sugar: 2g
    • Fat: 25g
    • Saturated Fat: 25g
    • Carbohydrates: 17g
    • Fiber: 4g
    • Protein: 15g

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    Sophie Bennett

    I’m the home cook, dessert lover, and heart behind TasteDiary. My love for Korean sweets started in my grandmother’s kitchen—my Halmoni—in Jeonju, South Korea. She wasn’t a professional chef, but to me, every dish she made was filled with magic and meaning.

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