When the sun goes down on a cold autumn night, my kitchen smells like creamy broccoli cheddar soup. It makes me feel warm and brings back happy memories. My family used to sit together for meals that made us feel close.
Broccoli cheddar soup was always on the menu. It had tender broccoli and melted cheese. It was the best comfort food that made any day better.
Now, I love making this soup because it’s easy and quick. It takes only 35 minutes to prepare and cook. It makes four big servings. Every time I eat it, I remember good times with my family.
This soup is perfect for any meal, big or small. It’s a favorite in my house. It makes everyone feel happy and full.
What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a mix of fresh broccoli and melted cheddar cheese. It’s creamy and rich. It’s made with butter, flour, and milk, and has garlic and onions for flavor.
Some recipes add mustard for a tangy taste. Making this soup is quick, perfect for a cold weeknight.
I use 1 pound of chopped broccoli for this soup. A medium white onion and a small grated carrot add flavor. For creaminess, I use 2 cups of whole milk and 8 ounces of cheddar cheese.
About 1 quart of vegetable stock is used, along with 1/4 cup each of butter and flour. This makes the soup thick and tasty.
Blanching broccoli for 2 to 3 minutes keeps it green and crispy. Cooking onions and carrots for 4 to 5 minutes before adding broccoli makes the soup flavorful. After adding milk, simmering for 10 minutes blends the flavors well.
This soup is popular in restaurants, enjoyed as a starter or main dish. Over one-third of diners pick it for a cozy meal. It keeps in the fridge for 5 days or can be frozen for 3 months, great for busy days.
Health Benefits of Broccoli
Broccoli is a superfood that’s full of good stuff. It’s packed with vitamins C and K. These vitamins help keep your immune system strong and your heart healthy.
Broccoli also has fiber, which is great for your digestion. This means my broccoli cheddar soup is tasty and good for you too.
Broccoli has antioxidants that fight inflammation. This is good for your joints and overall health. Plus, adding cheese makes it taste amazing. This way, you can enjoy veggies without feeling like you’re missing out.
My broccoli cheddar soup is also low in calories. It’s a healthier choice than other soups. Here’s what you get in each serving:
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 242 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Protein | 12.5 g |
| Fat | 12.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 37.5 mg |
| Sodium | 360 mg |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Vitamin A | 2869 IU |
| Vitamin C | 108 mg |
| Calcium | 244 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Adding broccoli to my soup makes it not only delicious but also super healthy. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to eat well.
Best Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To make the best broccoli cheddar soup, you need the right ingredients. Each one is important for a delicious and creamy soup. It’s what makes everyone want more.
Fresh Broccoli
Fresh broccoli florets are key for the best taste and texture. I chop it into small pieces for even cooking. About 1.5 pounds of broccoli adds green color and nutrition.
Cheddar Cheese Choices
Sharp cheddar cheese gives the soup a rich flavor. I grate it myself to avoid grainy texture. About 8 ounces of sharp cheddar makes the soup perfect.
Essential Aromatics: Onion and Garlic
Onions and garlic are the base of the soup’s flavor. I sauté half a medium onion in butter until it’s clear. Then, I add minced garlic for another minute or two. These add a deep, rich taste to the soup.
How to Make Homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Making homemade broccoli cheddar soup is easy and fun. I’ll show you how to do it step by step. This way, you can make a delicious bowl of soup easily.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt the Butter: In a big pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add one chopped medium yellow onion, ½ teaspoon of sea salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until soft. Then, add 3 chopped garlic cloves for a minute.
- Create a Roux: Sprinkle ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes. This removes the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids: Pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking. Then, add 2 cups of vegetable broth.
- Incorporate Broccoli and Carrots: Add 3 cups of chopped broccoli florets and 1 julienned large carrot. Stir well and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Melt the Cheese: Slowly add 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring well after each addition. Season to taste before serving.
This recipe makes about 6 servings. It’s great for sharing or keeping for the week. Each serving has about 551 calories and is full of nutrients. The soup’s bright green color and creamy texture make it irresistible.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 551 kcal |
| Total Fat | 47 g |
| Saturated Fat | 29 g |
| Cholesterol | 152 mg |
| Sodium | 722 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 19 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Total Sugars | 6 g |
| Protein | 17 g |
Tips for Making Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Making the perfect easy broccoli cheddar soup is fun and easy. Just remember these tips.
Always grate your cheese fresh. This is key because fresh cheese melts better. It makes the soup creamy. Pre-shredded cheese might not melt as well because of additives.
When mixing the ingredients, whisk constantly. This stops lumps from forming, which can happen with flour and liquid. Watch the heat when adding cheese to keep it creamy.
Reheating leftovers needs patience. Use medium-low heat and stir now and then. This keeps the soup smooth and tasty.
Here’s a quick guide to the ingredients and their amounts:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh Broccoli | 10 to 12 ounces |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 1 family-sized can |
| Milk | 1 cup (or more to taste) |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups |
Follow these tips, and your easy broccoli cheddar soup will wow everyone.
Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Cheese Soup
Enjoying broccoli cheese soup is a treat. It’s even better with the right sides. These can make your meal more satisfying.
Pairing with Bread and Croutons
Crusty white or sourdough bread is great with this soup. It adds texture and soaks up the creamy soup. A homemade bread bowl is also a great choice.
For a crunch, try homemade croutons. They contrast nicely with the soup’s smoothness. Season leftover bread with olive oil and herbs for extra flavor.
Here are some serving ideas:
- Crusty sourdough bread
- Cheesy garlic bread
- Homemade bread bowl
- Freshly made croutons
- Green salad with a light vinaigrette
These sides not only taste good but also make your meal complete. You can choose based on what you like.
| Accompaniment | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Sourdough Bread | Crisp and tangy |
| Cheesy Garlic Bread | Rich and savory |
| Croutons | Crispy and crunchy |
| Green Salad | Fresh and zesty |
| Homemade Bread Bowl | Soft and chewy |
Variations of Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Exploring broccoli cheddar soup variations is fun and healthy. Simple changes can make big differences. Here are some tasty options:
Healthy Alternatives
For a lighter soup, try low-fat milk. It cuts down on calories. Use half cheese and half nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without fat.
Add more veggies like cauliflower or spinach. They make the soup taste better and healthier. These changes keep the soup yummy and nutritious.
Vegetarian Options
Want a soup that’s good for vegetarians? Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It keeps the flavor rich but fits a vegetarian diet.
This makes a delicious soup that everyone can enjoy. It’s a comforting bowl for all.
Storing and Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Keeping my broccoli soup fresh is key. I put leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for up to 5 days.
Reheating on the stovetop works best. It’s better than microwaving to avoid overcooking. Sometimes, I add water to get the right consistency.
If the soup gets too thin, I use cornstarch. I mix it with warm soup and add it back. This keeps it creamy.
Freezing is possible, but it changes the soup’s texture and taste. I prefer to eat it fresh. If I freeze it, I use airtight containers or bags for up to 3 months. It takes 24-48 hours to thaw in the fridge.
Why This is the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
My broccoli cheddar soup is the best you’ll find. It’s creamy and fresh, with tender broccoli. It’s better than Campbell’s or Panera’s because I use top ingredients.
It’s easy to make in under 30 minutes. Every spoonful brings back happy memories. My soup beats others in taste and feeling.
My soup tastes better and is cheaper than store-bought ones. You can make it many times. So, get your ingredients ready for a warm treat.
