![- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Broccoli is the star of this dish. Fresh broccoli florets add color and nutrition. I love using a medium onion for sweetness. Minced garlic gives the soup a nice kick. Unsalted butter adds richness, while all-purpose flour helps thicken the soup. - 4 cups vegetable broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder - 1/2 teaspoon paprika Vegetable broth forms the base of the soup. Heavy cream creates that velvety texture we all crave. I use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor. Mustard powder and paprika add depth and warmth to each bite. - Crusty bread - Additional cheese for garnish Crusty bread makes a great side for dipping. You can also sprinkle more cheese on top for an extra treat. For the full recipe, check out the details above and enjoy this comforting delight! 1. Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. This should take about a minute. 2. Add the diced onion. Sauté it for about five minutes until it turns translucent. This step builds a great base for your soup. 3. Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for one to two minutes. You want to release that lovely garlic aroma. 4. Now, sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mix. Stir continuously for about one minute to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup. 1. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while whisking. This helps prevent lumps. 2. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens. This should take around five minutes. 3. Add the fresh broccoli florets, mustard powder, and paprika. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. 4. Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. 1. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until it is smooth. If you don’t have one, you can carefully transfer it in batches to a traditional blender. 2. Return the soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. 3. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. 4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. For the full recipe and detailed information, check [Full Recipe]. To make your broccoli cheddar soup taste great, focus on how you cook your veggies. Start by sautéing the onion in butter. This adds a sweet, rich base. Cook it until it turns soft and clear. Add garlic next for a burst of flavor. Be sure to chop fresh broccoli. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in taste and texture. One mistake is overcooking the broccoli. This makes it mushy and dull. Cook it just until it’s tender for the best flavor. Another common error is skipping the blending step. Blending gives the soup a smooth and creamy texture. If you don’t blend, the soup will be chunky and less enjoyable. When you serve the soup, cheese is a must. Try using sharp cheddar, as it melts well and adds richness. You can also top it with a sprinkle of herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Croutons are another great option; they add a nice crunch. These small touches can elevate your soup from ordinary to extraordinary. For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_2}} You can easily make broccoli cheddar soup gluten-free. Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. This keeps the soup thick and creamy without any gluten. For a vegan option, you can substitute dairy ingredients. Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cream. Nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor. You can also replace cheddar with a vegan cheese alternative. Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg for warmth. These spices bring a nice kick and depth to the soup. You can also change up the veggies. Carrots add sweetness, while potatoes make it heartier. Just chop them small and add them with the broccoli. They will blend nicely into the soup. Make this soup a full meal by adding proteins. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans work great. Add them right before serving to keep them warm. Try serving the soup in bread bowls for a fun twist. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or a side of roasted veggies. These sides add balance and flavor to your meal. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to create this comforting delight. After making your creamy broccoli cheddar soup, allow it to cool. Once cool, transfer the leftover soup into an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pour the soup into a pot. Heat it over medium-low heat, stirring often. This will help keep the texture smooth. You can also microwave it in a bowl, stirring every minute until hot. Yes, you can freeze broccoli cheddar soup! To do this, let it cool completely. Then, fill freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top. The soup expands when frozen. It can last for about three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well to mix in any separation that may occur. In the fridge, your soup will stay good for about three days. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see any mold or it smells off, it’s best to toss it. Freshness matters! If the soup looks grainy or separates a lot, it may be past its prime. For best quality, enjoy your broccoli cheddar soup fresh or freeze it for later. Don't forget to try the Full Recipe for more deliciousness! The best cheese for Broccoli Cheddar Soup is sharp cheddar. It gives a strong flavor that blends well. You can also mix in some gouda or gruyere for a gourmet touch. These cheeses melt smoothly and add depth to your soup. For a fun twist, try a blend of cheeses. This mix can enhance the taste and make it even more special. Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in your soup. Frozen broccoli is pre-blanched, which means it cooks faster. However, fresh broccoli has a better texture and taste. Frozen broccoli may turn softer when cooked. If you choose frozen, make sure to adjust your cooking time. You want the broccoli to be just tender but not mushy. To make Broccoli Cheddar Soup dairy-free, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. These options add creaminess without dairy. For cheese, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese. These alternatives give you the rich flavor you want while keeping it plant-based. Don't forget to season well to balance the flavors. Pairing is key! Crusty bread is a classic choice. It soaks up the soup well. You can also serve a fresh salad on the side. A light, citrusy salad complements the richness of the soup. For a heartier meal, add a protein like grilled chicken or tofu. These additions make your meal more filling and satisfying. Broccoli cheddar soup is simple and delightful. You learned about key ingredients and steps to make it perfect. Remember to avoid common mistakes like overcooking the broccoli. Adding fresh herbs and spices can really boost the taste. You can adapt the recipe for dietary needs, too. Enjoy your delicious soup with crusty bread or extra cheese on top. Now, you’re ready to make a bowl that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds. So grab your ingredients and get cooking; a tasty meal awaits!](https://goodsouppot.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/47b5a381-9d33-45a0-9720-a3e104180c04-768x768.webp)
Warm your heart and fill your belly with this rich and comforting broccoli cheddar soup! Packed with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and creamy goodness, it’s the perfect treat for chilly days. I’ll guide you through simple steps and handy tips to create this delightful dish at home. So grab your apron and let’s make a bowl of bliss that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Broccoli is the star of this dish. Fresh broccoli florets add color and nutrition. I love using a medium onion for sweetness. Minced garlic gives the soup a nice kick. Unsalted butter adds richness, while all-purpose flour helps thicken the soup.
Dairy and Seasoning Components
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Vegetable broth forms the base of the soup. Heavy cream creates that velvety texture we all crave. I use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor. Mustard powder and paprika add depth and warmth to each bite.
Optional Serving Suggestions
– Crusty bread
– Additional cheese for garnish
Crusty bread makes a great side for dipping. You can also sprinkle more cheese on top for an extra treat. For the full recipe, check out the details above and enjoy this comforting delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. This should take about a minute.
2. Add the diced onion. Sauté it for about five minutes until it turns translucent. This step builds a great base for your soup.
3. Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for one to two minutes. You want to release that lovely garlic aroma.
4. Now, sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mix. Stir continuously for about one minute to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
Cooking the Soup
1. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while whisking. This helps prevent lumps.
2. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens. This should take around five minutes.
3. Add the fresh broccoli florets, mustard powder, and paprika. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Blending and Finishing Touches
1. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until it is smooth. If you don’t have one, you can carefully transfer it in batches to a traditional blender.
2. Return the soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
For the full recipe and detailed information, check [Full Recipe].
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor and Texture
To make your broccoli cheddar soup taste great, focus on how you cook your veggies. Start by sautéing the onion in butter. This adds a sweet, rich base. Cook it until it turns soft and clear. Add garlic next for a burst of flavor. Be sure to chop fresh broccoli. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in taste and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake is overcooking the broccoli. This makes it mushy and dull. Cook it just until it’s tender for the best flavor. Another common error is skipping the blending step. Blending gives the soup a smooth and creamy texture. If you don’t blend, the soup will be chunky and less enjoyable.
Garnishing Ideas
When you serve the soup, cheese is a must. Try using sharp cheddar, as it melts well and adds richness. You can also top it with a sprinkle of herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Croutons are another great option; they add a nice crunch. These small touches can elevate your soup from ordinary to extraordinary. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Variations
Dietary Adaptations
You can easily make broccoli cheddar soup gluten-free. Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. This keeps the soup thick and creamy without any gluten.
For a vegan option, you can substitute dairy ingredients. Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cream. Nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor. You can also replace cheddar with a vegan cheese alternative.
Flavor Variations
Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg for warmth. These spices bring a nice kick and depth to the soup.
You can also change up the veggies. Carrots add sweetness, while potatoes make it heartier. Just chop them small and add them with the broccoli. They will blend nicely into the soup.
Serving Alternatives
Make this soup a full meal by adding proteins. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans work great. Add them right before serving to keep them warm.
Try serving the soup in bread bowls for a fun twist. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or a side of roasted veggies. These sides add balance and flavor to your meal.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to create this comforting delight.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
After making your creamy broccoli cheddar soup, allow it to cool. Once cool, transfer the leftover soup into an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pour the soup into a pot. Heat it over medium-low heat, stirring often. This will help keep the texture smooth. You can also microwave it in a bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze broccoli cheddar soup! To do this, let it cool completely. Then, fill freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top. The soup expands when frozen. It can last for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well to mix in any separation that may occur.
Shelf Life Information
In the fridge, your soup will stay good for about three days. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see any mold or it smells off, it’s best to toss it. Freshness matters! If the soup looks grainy or separates a lot, it may be past its prime. For best quality, enjoy your broccoli cheddar soup fresh or freeze it for later. Don’t forget to try the Full Recipe for more deliciousness!
FAQs
What is the best cheese for Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
The best cheese for Broccoli Cheddar Soup is sharp cheddar. It gives a strong flavor that blends well. You can also mix in some gouda or gruyere for a gourmet touch. These cheeses melt smoothly and add depth to your soup. For a fun twist, try a blend of cheeses. This mix can enhance the taste and make it even more special.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in your soup. Frozen broccoli is pre-blanched, which means it cooks faster. However, fresh broccoli has a better texture and taste. Frozen broccoli may turn softer when cooked. If you choose frozen, make sure to adjust your cooking time. You want the broccoli to be just tender but not mushy.
How can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup dairy-free?
To make Broccoli Cheddar Soup dairy-free, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. These options add creaminess without dairy. For cheese, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese. These alternatives give you the rich flavor you want while keeping it plant-based. Don’t forget to season well to balance the flavors.
What to serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Pairing is key! Crusty bread is a classic choice. It soaks up the soup well. You can also serve a fresh salad on the side. A light, citrusy salad complements the richness of the soup. For a heartier meal, add a protein like grilled chicken or tofu. These additions make your meal more filling and satisfying.
Broccoli cheddar soup is simple and delightful. You learned about key ingredients and steps to make it perfect. Remember to avoid common mistakes like overcooking the broccoli. Adding fresh herbs and spices can really boost the taste. You can adapt the recipe for dietary needs, too. Enjoy your delicious soup with crusty bread or extra cheese on top. Now, you’re ready to make a bowl that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds. So grab your ingredients and get cooking; a tasty meal awaits!
![- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Broccoli is the star of this dish. Fresh broccoli florets add color and nutrition. I love using a medium onion for sweetness. Minced garlic gives the soup a nice kick. Unsalted butter adds richness, while all-purpose flour helps thicken the soup. - 4 cups vegetable broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder - 1/2 teaspoon paprika Vegetable broth forms the base of the soup. Heavy cream creates that velvety texture we all crave. I use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor. Mustard powder and paprika add depth and warmth to each bite. - Crusty bread - Additional cheese for garnish Crusty bread makes a great side for dipping. You can also sprinkle more cheese on top for an extra treat. For the full recipe, check out the details above and enjoy this comforting delight! 1. Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. This should take about a minute. 2. Add the diced onion. Sauté it for about five minutes until it turns translucent. This step builds a great base for your soup. 3. Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for one to two minutes. You want to release that lovely garlic aroma. 4. Now, sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mix. Stir continuously for about one minute to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup. 1. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while whisking. This helps prevent lumps. 2. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens. This should take around five minutes. 3. Add the fresh broccoli florets, mustard powder, and paprika. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. 4. Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. 1. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until it is smooth. If you don’t have one, you can carefully transfer it in batches to a traditional blender. 2. Return the soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. 3. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. 4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. For the full recipe and detailed information, check [Full Recipe]. To make your broccoli cheddar soup taste great, focus on how you cook your veggies. Start by sautéing the onion in butter. This adds a sweet, rich base. Cook it until it turns soft and clear. Add garlic next for a burst of flavor. Be sure to chop fresh broccoli. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in taste and texture. One mistake is overcooking the broccoli. This makes it mushy and dull. Cook it just until it’s tender for the best flavor. Another common error is skipping the blending step. Blending gives the soup a smooth and creamy texture. If you don’t blend, the soup will be chunky and less enjoyable. When you serve the soup, cheese is a must. Try using sharp cheddar, as it melts well and adds richness. You can also top it with a sprinkle of herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Croutons are another great option; they add a nice crunch. These small touches can elevate your soup from ordinary to extraordinary. For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_2}} You can easily make broccoli cheddar soup gluten-free. Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. This keeps the soup thick and creamy without any gluten. For a vegan option, you can substitute dairy ingredients. Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cream. Nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor. You can also replace cheddar with a vegan cheese alternative. Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg for warmth. These spices bring a nice kick and depth to the soup. You can also change up the veggies. Carrots add sweetness, while potatoes make it heartier. Just chop them small and add them with the broccoli. They will blend nicely into the soup. Make this soup a full meal by adding proteins. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans work great. Add them right before serving to keep them warm. Try serving the soup in bread bowls for a fun twist. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or a side of roasted veggies. These sides add balance and flavor to your meal. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to create this comforting delight. After making your creamy broccoli cheddar soup, allow it to cool. Once cool, transfer the leftover soup into an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pour the soup into a pot. Heat it over medium-low heat, stirring often. This will help keep the texture smooth. You can also microwave it in a bowl, stirring every minute until hot. Yes, you can freeze broccoli cheddar soup! To do this, let it cool completely. Then, fill freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top. The soup expands when frozen. It can last for about three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well to mix in any separation that may occur. In the fridge, your soup will stay good for about three days. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see any mold or it smells off, it’s best to toss it. Freshness matters! If the soup looks grainy or separates a lot, it may be past its prime. For best quality, enjoy your broccoli cheddar soup fresh or freeze it for later. Don't forget to try the Full Recipe for more deliciousness! The best cheese for Broccoli Cheddar Soup is sharp cheddar. It gives a strong flavor that blends well. You can also mix in some gouda or gruyere for a gourmet touch. These cheeses melt smoothly and add depth to your soup. For a fun twist, try a blend of cheeses. This mix can enhance the taste and make it even more special. Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in your soup. Frozen broccoli is pre-blanched, which means it cooks faster. However, fresh broccoli has a better texture and taste. Frozen broccoli may turn softer when cooked. If you choose frozen, make sure to adjust your cooking time. You want the broccoli to be just tender but not mushy. To make Broccoli Cheddar Soup dairy-free, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. These options add creaminess without dairy. For cheese, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese. These alternatives give you the rich flavor you want while keeping it plant-based. Don't forget to season well to balance the flavors. Pairing is key! Crusty bread is a classic choice. It soaks up the soup well. You can also serve a fresh salad on the side. A light, citrusy salad complements the richness of the soup. For a heartier meal, add a protein like grilled chicken or tofu. These additions make your meal more filling and satisfying. Broccoli cheddar soup is simple and delightful. You learned about key ingredients and steps to make it perfect. Remember to avoid common mistakes like overcooking the broccoli. Adding fresh herbs and spices can really boost the taste. You can adapt the recipe for dietary needs, too. Enjoy your delicious soup with crusty bread or extra cheese on top. Now, you’re ready to make a bowl that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds. So grab your ingredients and get cooking; a tasty meal awaits!](https://goodsouppot.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/47b5a381-9d33-45a0-9720-a3e104180c04-250x250.webp)
