Name: Broccoli Cheddar Soup: 30-Minute Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 large heads); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1½ cups whole milk; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg; ½ teaspoon paprika; Extra shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh chives or green onions; Crispy bacon bits; Crusty bread for dipping

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Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy and delicious dish that warms the soul in just 30 minutes. This comforting soup blends fresh broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese into a velvety concoction, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights. As I stir the pot, the aroma fills the kitchen, and I can already tell this recipe will become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This broccoli cheddar soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Here are six reasons to love it:

Quick and easy to prepare, taking only 30 minutes.
Rich in nutrients, thanks to fresh broccoli, a cruciferous vegetable.
Perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Versatile recipe that can be customized with different ingredients.
Deliciously creamy without being overly heavy.
Great for meal prep; it stores well for later enjoyment.

This soup not only delivers on flavor but also on the nutritional benefits of broccoli, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Gather these items:

4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 large heads)
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1½ cups whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon paprika
Extra shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh chives or green onions
Crispy bacon bits
Crusty bread for dipping

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the broccoli by cutting it into bite-sized florets.
Step 2: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
Step 3: Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds. Sprinkle flour and whisk for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking. Add milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Add broccoli florets and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender.
Step 6: Remove from heat and gradually stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted.
Step 7: Pour in heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and paprika. Adjust seasonings as needed.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Keep these in mind:

Serve with extra cheddar cheese on top.
Garnish with fresh chives or green onions for added flavor.
Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
Pair with crusty bread for dipping, making it a complete meal.

Best Ways to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are some ideas:

Serve as a starter before a hearty main dish.
Pair it with a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
Enjoy it with a side of garlic bread for the ultimate comfort.

How to Store and Reheat Broccoli Cheddar Soup

After enjoying this delicious soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a little milk if it thickens too much. This makes it perfect for meal prep or quick weekday lunches!

Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Cheddar Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

The secret lies in gradually adding the cheddar cheese off the heat, preventing it from becoming grainy. Using freshly grated cheese ensures a smooth texture.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can make this soup ahead of time and reheat it when needed. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t boil the soup after adding the cheese. This can cause it to become gritty. Cook the broccoli just until tender for perfect texture.

Variations of Broccoli Cheddar Soup You Can Try

If you want to switch things up, consider these variations:

Add different vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for added nutrition.
Use different types of cheese for varied flavor profiles, such as Gouda or Monterey Jack.
Make it vegan by substituting dairy with almond milk and vegan cheese.
Incorporate spices like cumin or cayenne for a kick.

Every variation can offer a new twist on this classic American vegetarian dish, ensuring it remains a staple in your kitchen.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Potato Soup and Last Recipes.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup: 30-Minute Comfort Food Delight - ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=broccoli - additional detail

For more information on the health benefits of broccoli, visit Healthline.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup: 30-Minute Comfort Food Delight

Author: basmer
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy and delicious broccoli cheddar soup made in 30 minutes.

Instructions

Prepare the broccoli by cutting it into bite-sized florets.
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds. Sprinkle flour and whisk for 2 minutes.
Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking. Add milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add broccoli florets and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender.
Remove from heat and gradually stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted.
Pour in heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and paprika. Adjust seasonings as needed.