Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Few things are as comforting as a warm bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup on a chilly day. This creamy, cheesy, and hearty soup is a beloved classic that combines the richness of cheddar with the earthy goodness of broccoli. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this homemade version will surely impress your taste buds while being much fresher than any store-bought option.
Ingredients
To make a delicious batch of Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped)
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added depth)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- Croutons or extra shredded cheese (for garnish)
Directions
1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes. This helps create a thick base for the soup. Slowly pour in the broth while whisking to ensure a smooth consistency.
3: Add Dairy and Broccoli
Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring gently. Add the chopped broccoli florets and season with salt, black pepper, ground mustard, and nutmeg. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli becomes tender.
4: Blend for Creaminess
For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup while leaving some broccoli chunks intact. If you prefer a chunkier consistency, simply mash the broccoli with the back of a spoon.
5: Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with croutons or extra shredded cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on a standard portion size):
- Calories: 320-350 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg (varies based on broth and cheese used)
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home is easier than you might think, and the results are far more satisfying than any canned version. With a creamy texture, rich cheese flavor, and nutritious broccoli, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Give it a try and elevate your soup game with this delicious, homemade recipe!
