If you are craving a soul-soothing bowl of warmth that perfectly balances rich flavor and velvety texture, this Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is your new go-to. Bursting with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a luscious cream base, this soup feels like a comforting hug on chilly days or whenever you need a boost of cozy satisfaction. It’s incredibly easy to make, yet each spoonful delivers a symphony of taste and creaminess that’s absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully to make the soup both flavorful and texturally delightful. Each component plays a vital role, whether for depth of flavor, creaminess, or that vibrant green pop from the broccoli.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: The star of the dish, providing nutrition and that fresh green appeal.
- 1 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and a savory base when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a gentle kick that complements the cheddar perfectly.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid that ties everything together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that rich, silky texture that defines “creamy.”
- 2 tablespoons butter: Enhances the richness while sautéing the vegetables.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Used to create a roux, thickening the soup to luscious perfection.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The flavorful cheese that melts into every bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to perfectly balance the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional): Adds a subtle smoky warmth if you want a little extra flair.
- Croutons for garnish (optional): For that delightful crunch on top.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat, allowing it to gently foam and coat the bottom. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it softens and turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Garlic comes next to the party – toss it in and cook just until fragrant, which takes about a minute. This creates a savory, aromatic base that sets the tone for the whole soup.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the softened onion and garlic, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and form a roux – your magic thickening agent that will give the soup its luscious body.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring continuously so the roux blends smoothly into the liquid. Bring everything up to a gentle boil, which activates the thickening process and prepares the pot for the star veggie.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Once boiling, add the fresh broccoli florets to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the florets soften – this usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender enough to pierce easily with a fork, but still vibrant green.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a little more texture, puree only half of the soup, leaving some broccoli pieces to give the soup a satisfying bite. This step is where the soup transforms into that beautifully silky sensation you’re imagining.
Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream followed by the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing gently until the cheese melts into a gooey, cheesy cloud. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and if you like, a touch of paprika for warmth and color. Taste as you go to adjust any seasoning for the perfect balance.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Dish up your soup hot, garnished with crispy croutons if you want a little crunch on top. The melded flavors and textures make every spoonful a pure comfort experience.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While the soup tastes incredible on its own, garnishing it with crunchy croutons or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese adds even more excitement. A pinch of freshly cracked black pepper or a dash of smoked paprika also brightens the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair this rich soup with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. A warm baguette or crusty garlic bread provides the perfect vehicle for soaking up every last drop of deliciousness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls to impress guests and add an edible container to the experience. Or drizzle a little pesto or chili oil on top to introduce a burst of complementary flavor and color contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, giving you quick comforting meals for days to come.
Freezing
This Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months without losing its creamy texture or flavor.
Reheating
Rewarm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Add a splash of broth or cream if it feels too thick. Microwave reheating works too but stir halfway through to ensure even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen florets may take a bit less time to soften.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, swap the butter for olive oil and use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative instead of heavy cream. Choose a dairy-free cheese substitute or omit cheese altogether for a lighter version.
How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?
If you want it thicker, add a bit more flour when making the roux or reduce the amount of broth. To thin it out, simply stir in extra broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Definitely! You can make the entire soup a day ahead and refrigerate it. Flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated.
What type of cheddar cheese is best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor that stands up beautifully to the broccoli and cream. You can experiment with smoked or aged cheddar for a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl, wonderfully easy to make but full of rich, comforting flavors. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this soup promises to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
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Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any meal. Made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich creamy base, it combines fresh vegetables with indulgent flavors to create a warm bowl of comfort. Easy to prepare in about 40 minutes and serves 6, this soup is perfect for chilly days or when you want a satisfying, nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Dairy
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Dry Ingredients
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Garnish
- Croutons for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour into the pot and stir continuously for about 1 to 2 minutes to cook the flour and create a roux which will thicken the soup.
- Add the Broth: Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Broccoli: Once boiling, add the fresh broccoli florets to the pot. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 to 15 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth for a creamy texture. For a chunkier soup, blend only half and leave the other half as is.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the cheese fully melts and the soup becomes creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the soup hot, garnished with croutons if desired, to add a delightful crunch and enhance the flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor, but frozen broccoli florets can be a convenient substitute.
- To make the soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- For a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of broth or cook the soup a few minutes longer to evaporate excess liquid.
- Adjust the cheese type and quantity to your preference for different flavors and textures.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
