Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Simple and Tasty Recipe

Ingredients

List of Key Ingredients

To make creamy broccoli cheddar soup, you need these main ingredients:

- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, washed and trimmed

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 3 cups vegetable broth, low-sodium preferred

- 1 cup heavy cream, at room temperature

- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for garnish

- 2 tablespoons butter

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

- A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional, for depth)

Optional Seasoning and Garnishes

You can add a few extras for more flavor or visual appeal:

- Cracked black pepper for garnish

- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color

- A drizzle of olive oil before serving

Tools and Equipment Needed

You will need some simple tools to prepare this soup:

- A large pot for cooking

- An immersion blender or regular blender for pureeing

- A cutting board and knife for chopping

- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy

- A ladle for serving

With these ingredients and tools, you can create a delicious and comforting bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup. It’s simple and fun to make!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Let them melt together until they bubble. Next, add 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook these for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is soft and clear. Stir occasionally to keep them from browning.

Cooking the Broccoli

Now, add 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets to the pot. Toss them well so they get coated with the oil and butter mix. Cook for another 3 minutes. This helps the broccoli soften just a bit. Next, pour in 3 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth. Turn up the heat to bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to let it simmer. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes. The broccoli should be tender enough to pierce with a fork.

Pureeing the Soup

After your broccoli is cooked, it’s time to blend! Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s as smooth as you like. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Blend until creamy, then return it back to the pot.

Incorporating the Cream and Cheese

Set the pureed soup over low heat. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of room temperature heavy cream. Then add 1 ½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the soup becomes rich and creamy.

Final Seasoning and Serving Suggestions

Now, season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like, add a pinch of ground nutmeg for extra depth. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle it into bowls, topping with extra shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a delightful meal!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture

To get that smooth and creamy soup, blend well. An immersion blender works best. If you use a regular blender, blend in small batches. This makes it easier and safer. Add the cream slowly. Stir as you add it. This helps it mix well with the soup. Always taste before serving. Adjust the cream for your perfect texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overcooking the broccoli. Cook it just until it’s fork-tender. If you cook it too long, it gets mushy. Don’t skip the Dijon mustard; it adds depth. Also, use shredded cheese, not blocks. Shredded cheese melts better and mixes in smoothly. Lastly, taste as you go. Don’t wait until the end to season.

Best Practices for Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter soup. Use plant-based milk for a vegan option. For cheese, try a dairy-free version or nutritional yeast. If you don’t have broccoli, use cauliflower instead. It still gives a nice creamy texture. Always remember to adjust seasonings based on your substitutions.

Variations

Adding Protein Options (Chicken, Bacon, etc.)

You can easily add protein to your creamy broccoli cheddar soup. Chicken is a great choice. Cook chicken breast in the pot before adding onions. Shred it and mix it in with the cheese. Bacon also adds a nice crunch. Cook bacon until crispy, crumble it, and mix it in at the end. You can even use ham or sausage for a savory twist.

Vegetarian or Vegan Alternatives

If you want a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and bacon. Use vegetable broth and add more veggies like carrots or peas. For a vegan soup, swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for that cheesy flavor. There are many ways to make this soup fit your diet.

Flavor Enhancements (Spices, Herbs, etc.)

Boost the flavor of your soup with spices and herbs. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper gives it a kick. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley add freshness. You can also try garlic powder or smoked paprika for depth. A splash of lemon juice brightens the taste. Experiment with your favorite flavors to make the soup your own!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Soup

To store leftover soup, let it cool. Once cooled, ladle it into an airtight container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for the soup to expand when frozen. Label the container with the date. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it in a few days.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze this soup for later use. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers. Be sure to seal them tightly to avoid freezer burn. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips for Best Results

To reheat the soup, pour it into a pot over low heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. Add a splash of vegetable broth or cream if it seems too thick. Heat until warm, but do not let it boil. This keeps the creamy texture just right. For a quick option, you can use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. It holds well in the fridge for up to three days. Just store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, heat it gently on the stove. Stir well to mix the flavors again.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free broth and ensure your cheese is gluten-free. Most cheeses are safe, but it's best to check the label. You can skip the Dijon mustard or find a gluten-free option.

What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

This soup pairs well with several sides. Consider serving it with:

- Crusty bread for dipping

- A fresh green salad

- Grilled cheese sandwiches

- Roasted vegetables

These sides add texture and flavor, making your meal complete.

This blog post outlined how to make a great creamy broccoli cheddar soup. We covered key ingredients, tools, and step-by-step instructions for cooking. I shared useful tips and variations, plus storage info to keep your soup fresh.

Remember, cooking should be fun. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors or ingredients. Enjoy your delicious creation! Your next soup night will be a hit.