Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a rich and creamy dish that combines the savory goodness of sharp cheddar cheese with the freshness of broccoli. The velvety texture and rich flavor of the soup make it a comforting choice for any occasion, whether you’re seeking a warm lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a cozy starter. With a combination of butter, olive oil, spices, and cheddar, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The addition of shredded carrots and fresh broccoli brings a touch of sweetness and texture, balancing out the richness of the cheese. Served with a slice of hearty buttered bread or in a bread bowl, this soup is an all-time favorite that will quickly become a go-to recipe for cold days or whenever you’re craving something comforting and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Broccoli Cheddar Soup for many reasons! It’s incredibly creamy and cheesy, offering the perfect blend of flavors with sharp cheddar and the slight smokiness from paprika. The texture is smooth, yet the pieces of broccoli and carrots provide a satisfying bite that adds freshness to the rich base. This soup is hearty enough to enjoy on its own or serve as a side, and it pairs perfectly with a slice of buttered bread or even in a bread bowl. It’s easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients, making it the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings. The balance of spices and seasonings—such as smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and ground mustard—adds layers of warmth without being overpowering. Plus, it can easily be adapted to suit your preferences by adjusting the level of spiciness or the type of cheese used. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing meal or a warming dish to enjoy with loved ones, this soup is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• Unsalted butter (divided)
• Olive oil
• Yellow onion (finely diced)
• Minced garlic
• Paprika (preferably smoked)
• Ground mustard
• Ground cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper
• All-purpose flour
• Low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• Half-and-half
• Bay leaf (optional)
• Fresh broccoli (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
• Shredded carrots
• Extra-sharp cheddar cheese (grated)

For Serving:

• Hearty buttered bread (optional)
• Bread bowls (optional)

Variations

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Add More Vegetables: For added nutrition, toss in other vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach.
2. Spicy Version: If you enjoy heat, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for an extra kick.
3. Vegan Version: Swap the butter for a plant-based butter alternative, use non-dairy milk (such as almond or coconut milk) in place of half-and-half, and choose a dairy-free cheddar cheese.
4. Make it Meaty: For a heartier soup, you can add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham.
5. Low-Carb Version: Skip the flour and use a low-carb thickening agent like xanthan gum, or make a cauliflower-based thickener for a keto-friendly version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large pot, melt 5 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Spices and Flour

Stir in the paprika, ground mustard, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute to let the spices bloom. Then, add the flour and whisk to combine. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a roux (this will help thicken the soup).

Step 3: Add the Broth and Half-and-Half

Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Once the broth is combined with the roux, add the half-and-half and stir. Add the bay leaf (if using) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli and Carrots

Add the chopped broccoli and shredded carrots to the pot. Continue to simmer the soup for 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the grated cheddar cheese, a little at a time, until it’s completely melted and the soup becomes smooth and creamy. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the soup hot with a drizzle of extra cheese on top, if desired. Optionally, serve with hearty buttered bread or in a bread bowl for a more indulgent experience.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Preventing Lumps: Be sure to whisk the flour into the butter and oil mixture thoroughly before adding the liquids. This will ensure a smooth base and prevent clumps from forming.
• Cheese Tip: For the best texture and flavor, use freshly grated cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the soup.
• Thickening Tip: If the soup is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a bit more flour or by simmering it for a longer period to reduce the liquid. You can also blend a small portion of the soup to create a thicker texture.
• Adjusting Consistency: If the soup becomes too thick, simply add more half-and-half or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Freezing Tip: If you plan to freeze the soup, leave out the cheese, and add it when reheating. This will prevent the cheese from separating and becoming grainy after freezing.

How to Serve

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Serve it as a hearty lunch or dinner paired with a slice of toasted, buttered bread or in a bread bowl for the ultimate comforting meal. It also makes a great starter for a larger meal. If you’re serving a crowd, provide additional shredded cheddar cheese and croutons on the side for everyone to add as they wish. For a more substantial meal, serve the soup alongside a fresh salad, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a savory quiche.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If the soup thickens too much while stored, simply add a bit of broth or milk and reheat over low heat, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.

Freezing

To freeze the soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding extra broth or milk as necessary.

Reheating

Reheat leftover soup over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If the soup has thickened too much, you can add more half-and-half, milk, or broth to achieve the desired texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together even more after sitting for a bit.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli in this soup?

Frozen broccoli can be used, though fresh broccoli tends to have a better texture in the soup. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it before adding.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like mild cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor, though the soup will have a different character.

4. Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, you can make this soup vegan by using plant-based butter, non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk), and vegan cheese. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

5. How can I make the soup spicier?

If you like a spicier soup, try adding more cayenne pepper, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or some hot sauce for an extra kick.

6. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or zucchini for more variety and nutrients.

7. How can I thicken the soup?

To thicken the soup, simmer it longer, or blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot. You can also add a bit more flour or cornstarch if needed.

8. Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave out the cheese and add it when reheating to avoid the cheese becoming grainy.

9. Can I serve this soup in a bread bowl?

Yes! Broccoli Cheddar Soup served in a hollowed-out bread bowl makes for a fun and delicious presentation.

10. What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, a crisp salad, or a slice of buttered toast.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the epitome of comfort food. Its creamy texture, rich cheddar flavor, and satisfying vegetables make it a perfect dish to enjoy year-round. Whether you’re serving it in a bread bowl, alongside a sandwich, or simply as a stand-alone meal, this soup is sure to satisfy. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s the perfect addition to your recipe collection.

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