Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect warm bowl of goodness that combines fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese for a delightful experience.
There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup to make you feel cozy. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of fresh broccoli with the creamy richness of cheddar cheese, creating a soup that's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a chilly night or a family gathering.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy and cheesy texture that warms the soul
- Packed with nutritious broccoli for a healthy twist
- Quick and easy to make for busy weeknights
A Creamy Delight for All Occasions
This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The creamy texture combined with the rich flavor of sharp cheddar cheese creates a warm embrace in a bowl. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this soup is sure to please. It’s not only comforting but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts.
Moreover, the vibrant green of the broccoli not only adds visual appeal but also infuses the soup with essential nutrients. Packed with vitamins C and K, broccoli provides a healthy boost to your immune system. This soup allows you to indulge without the guilt, making it a perfect solution for those looking to enjoy delicious flavors while maintaining a nutritious diet.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best aspects of this Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup is its simplicity. With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in under an hour. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just sauté, simmer, blend, and serve—it's that easy!
Additionally, this soup is perfect for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers in the refrigerator for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week. Reheating is a breeze, and the flavors meld even more beautifully after a day in the fridge, enhancing the overall taste.
Customizable to Your Liking
While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to make it your own! You can add in other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for added texture and flavor. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. The options are endless, allowing you to tailor the soup to suit your taste preferences perfectly.
For those who follow a specific diet, this soup can easily be adapted. Swap out the heavy cream for a non-dairy alternative such as coconut milk, or use low-fat cheese for a lighter version. It’s a flexible recipe that can accommodate various dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all the ingredients before starting to make the soup.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Broccoli and Broth
Add the broccoli florets and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of it.
Stir in Cheese and Cream
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Cook over low heat until the cheese has melted and the soup is heated through, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
To store any leftover soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore its creamy consistency.
When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the cheese from separating. Stir frequently and add a little water or broth if the soup becomes too thick. This way, you can enjoy a bowl of creamy goodness just as if it were freshly made.
Serving Suggestions
This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping, or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a touch of gourmet flair, top the soup with croutons, extra cheese, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a protein element by topping each bowl with crispy bacon bits or shredded chicken. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also make the soup more filling, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner.
Nutritional Benefits
Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrition, offering a wealth of benefits in every serving. It's high in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Additionally, the vitamins and minerals found in broccoli, such as folate and potassium, contribute to overall health and wellness.
Cheddar cheese, while rich and creamy, also provides calcium and protein, making this soup a balanced option to enjoy. Together, these ingredients create a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body, making it a truly comforting choice.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well too. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.
→ How can I make this soup lighter?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, the soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.
→ Is this soup vegetarian?
Yes, if you use vegetable broth, this soup is vegetarian-friendly.
Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect warm bowl of goodness that combines fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese for a delightful experience.
Created by: Ethan
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the broccoli florets and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of it.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Cook over low heat until the cheese has melted and the soup is heated through, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 10g