Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting, rich, and velvety dish that brings together tender broccoli, sweet carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese in a creamy, flavorful broth. With its perfect balance of creaminess, vegetables, and cheese, it’s a dish that can satisfy your cravings and nourish you all at once. This soup is ideal for chilly days when you’re looking for something warm and filling, yet it’s easy enough to prepare for a weeknight dinner. The creamy texture and savory flavors are sure to please everyone at the table. Perfectly paired with crusty bread or served as a stand-alone meal, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup offers the ultimate combination of richness and nutrition, with broccoli and carrots adding not only a delightful texture but also a boost of vitamins and fiber. The soup’s creaminess comes from a simple base of butter, half and half, and cheddar cheese, giving it a luscious, satisfying quality. The addition of garlic powder, paprika, and dry mustard infuses the soup with subtle layers of flavor. This recipe is quick to make, requiring minimal prep and cooking time, which makes it a perfect option for a busy dinner. The comforting texture and irresistible flavor make it a go-to recipe, whether you’re in need of a warming bowl of soup on a cold day or a delicious side for a larger meal.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• Butter
• Yellow onion (finely chopped)
• Salted butter
• All-purpose flour
• Chicken broth
• Half and half
• Fresh broccoli (roughly chopped)
• Carrots (peeled and chopped)
• Kosher salt
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Dry mustard (or regular mustard)
• Black pepper
• Cheddar cheese (shredded)

Variations

You can easily adjust this soup to your preferences or dietary needs with the following variations:

1. Vegan Version: To make it vegan, substitute the half and half with coconut milk or another non-dairy milk. Use dairy-free butter and cheese to complete the transformation.
2. Gluten-Free Version: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
3. Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to give the soup a bit of heat.
4. Add Protein: For a heartier version, add shredded chicken or even some crumbled bacon to the soup.
5. Different Vegetables: If you want to add more vegetables, feel free to include cauliflower, spinach, or leeks to complement the broccoli.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, until softened. Add the carrots and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Add the salted butter and let it melt. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux. This will thicken the soup base.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Half and Half

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and half and half, making sure to prevent any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli and Seasonings

Add the chopped broccoli to the soup and season with salt, paprika, garlic powder, dry mustard, and black pepper. Simmer the soup for about 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 5: Add the Cheddar Cheese

Once the broccoli is tender, reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy.

Step 6: Blend (Optional)

For a smoother texture, you can blend part or all of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender. This is optional, depending on whether you prefer a chunky or creamy consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Once the soup reaches your desired consistency and is fully combined, serve it hot. Garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese or some fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Prevent Lumps: When making the roux, ensure the flour is fully incorporated with the butter to prevent lumps. Gradually whisk in the broth and half and half to keep the mixture smooth.
• Adjust the Thickness: If the soup becomes too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little extra chicken broth or milk.
• Cheese Tip: For the best flavor and smooth melt, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
• Broccoli Texture: If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the soup to your desired consistency after the broccoli is tender.
• Make Ahead: This soup stores well, so you can make it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

How to Serve

This creamy soup can be served in a variety of ways. For a classic pairing, serve it with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for a comforting meal. You could also pair it with a simple salad or a sandwich for a more complete meal. If you enjoy extra cheese, sprinkle more shredded cheddar on top before serving, or garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to brighten the flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat the soup over low heat on the stove, adding a little more broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge and then heat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.

Reheating

Reheat on low heat on the stove. If the soup has thickened after storage, simply add more chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. The flavors will improve with time.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh is unavailable. Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli before adding it to the soup.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

While cheddar cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorites.

4. How do I make the soup thicker?

If the soup is too thin, you can simmer it longer to reduce it or add more flour (or cornstarch) to thicken it.

5. Is this soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

6. Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

7. Can I use other vegetables in this soup?

You can add other vegetables such as cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.

8. Is it possible to make this soup spicy?

To add heat, you can stir in red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños.

9. How can I reduce the fat content of the soup?

For a lighter version, use half the amount of butter, substitute half-and-half with low-fat milk, and use a reduced-fat cheese.

10. Can I blend the soup for a smoother texture?

Yes, you can blend part or all of the soup to achieve a smoother, creamier texture if you prefer.

Conclusion

This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is an incredibly satisfying and comforting dish, packed with the savory flavors of cheddar cheese, tender vegetables, and a creamy base. It’s easy to make, customizable to your tastes, and can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner or serving it as a starter, this soup will quickly become a household favorite. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s the perfect balance of indulgence and nourishment in every spoonful.

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