Nothing warms the heart like a bowl of homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Perfect for those chilly days, this soup combines the nutritional goodness of broccoli and carrots with the rich, cheesy comfort of cheddar. This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners and sophisticated enough for guests. Let’s make your kitchen the heart of warmth and cheesy delights!
Simple Steps to a Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is not only comforting but also packed with flavors that blend beautifully to create a creamy, satisfying experience with every spoonful. Moreover, it’s an excellent way to include more vegetables in your diet in a delicious way.
Pro Tips for Creamy, Cheesy Goodness
- Vegetable Prep: Chop broccoli and carrots uniformly for even cooking.
- Cheese Choice: Opt for sharp cheddar as it melts well and offers more flavor.
- Roux Mastery: Cook the roux until golden; it’s crucial for a silky, thick base.
- Partial Pureeing: For texture, only partially puree the soup. It provides a lovely contrast between smooth and chunky bites.
- Low Heat Cheese Melting: Add cheese on low heat to avoid oil separation, which ensures a smooth texture.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Serving: 6 servings
- Equipment: Large pot, immersion blender
This soup is perfect for those seeking comfort in a bowl, blending rich flavors with hearty vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Directions:
- Start with Sauté: In a large pot, melt butter. Add onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle flour over the sautéed mixture, stirring constantly, until golden.
- Add Liquids: Gradually pour in broth, stirring well. Bring to a simmer.
- Vegetables In: Mix in broccoli and carrots. Cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Cheese It Up: Lower heat, add heavy cream, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is melted and soup is hot.
- Blend for Texture: Use an immersion blender for partial pureeing, keeping some chunks for texture.
Perfect Anytime Comfort
Serve this Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot, topped with extra cheese if desired, for a meal that satisfies the soul. It’s not just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl! Enjoy this comforting classic on any day that calls for a little extra warmth and cheer.
