A cozy bowl of Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual lunch with friends. This delightful recipe stands out for its creamy texture and rich flavor, making it the ultimate comfort food. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious soup that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or even in a sourdough bread bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This soup can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and broccoli creates a comforting taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even as a side dish; it fits any meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein from cheese, this soup is not only tasty but also nutritious.
- Easily Customizable: Feel free to add extra veggies or spices to suit your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having these essentials will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Chopping board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without splattering.
- Whisk: Helps mix the flour smoothly into the butter without clumps.
Ingredients
For this comforting Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather the following ingredients:
For the Soup Base
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ onion (chopped)
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 celery stalk (finely diced)
- 2½ cups broccoli (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups whole milk
For Cheese & Seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheddar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients together. Chop the onions, celery, and broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Measure out your flour and cheese as well.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Sauté Onions
Place a large pot over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter. Add in the chopped onion, sautéing until soft—about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Create a Roux
Whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking for about 2 minutes until lightly golden. This will help thicken your soup later.
Step 4: Add Chicken Stock and Vegetables
Stir in the chicken stock, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Then add the finely diced celery and chopped broccoli. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to medium-low. Let simmer until vegetables are tender, approximately 15 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate Milk
Stir in the whole milk, continuing to simmer until the soup thickens enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon—about 2 to 3 minutes. It should still have a soupy texture.
Step 6: Add Cheddar Cheese
Remove the pot from heat. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, adding small handfuls at a time. Wait for each addition to melt before adding more cheese.
Step 7: Final Seasoning and Serve
Season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Top with more shredded cheddar if desired. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your deliciously cozy Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup!
How to Serve Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serving Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish.
In a Sourdough Bread Bowl
- A sourdough bread bowl adds a rustic charm. The crusty exterior holds the soup perfectly and offers a delicious way to soak up every bite.
With Crusty Bread
- Pairing the soup with thick slices of crusty bread is ideal for dipping. It adds texture and makes each spoonful even more satisfying.
Topped with Extra Cheese
- Sprinkling more shredded cheddar on top before serving creates a melty, gooey finish that cheese lovers will adore.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives brightens the dish and adds a fresh flavor contrast to the creamy soup.
Accompanied by a Simple Salad
- A light salad, such as mixed greens or Caesar, can balance the richness of the soup and add a refreshing crunch.
Served with Crackers
- Adding some crunchy crackers on the side provides an enjoyable texture and is perfect for scooping up that cheesy goodness.
How to Perfect Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Perfecting your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.
- Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the soup vibrant color and better flavor compared to frozen varieties.
- Gradually add cheese: Stir in cheese a little at a time, allowing it to melt fully before adding more. This helps prevent clumping.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. Don’t hesitate to add more salt or pepper according to your preference.
- Simmer longer for depth: Letting the soup simmer for an extra few minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Blend for creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, use an immersion blender briefly after adding milk. This creates a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Add spices for warmth: Consider incorporating spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for an extra layer of warmth and depth.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Pairing your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup with tasty side dishes can make for a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up every drop of soup while adding rich flavor.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing complements the soup’s richness beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color and nutrients, making your meal healthier.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs make a delightful accompaniment.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges give a satisfying crunch and pair well with creamy soups.
- Quiche: A slice of quiche offers protein and makes for an elegant pairing alongside your soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a unique twist and enhance the comfort food experience.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, tomatoes, and basil on skewers add brightness and freshness to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup turns out perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking broccoli and celery for too long can make them mushy. Avoid this by simmering just until they’re tender, about 15 minutes.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Stick with a good quality cheddar to achieve that creamy texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as they often contain anti-caking agents.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland soup. Be sure to generously season with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for maximum flavor.
- Skipping the Flour Step: Neglecting to cook the flour can result in a grainy texture. Ensure you whisk it in and cook for at least two minutes before adding liquid.
- Not Stirring in Cheese Gradually: Adding all the cheese at once can lead to clumping. Stir in small handfuls and wait for each batch to melt before adding more.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
- Use within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make my Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?
You can easily convert this recipe by using plant-based butter, vegetable stock, and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
What can I serve with Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with sourdough bread bowls or crusty bread for dipping. You could also serve it alongside a fresh salad.
Can I add more vegetables to my Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in carrots or cauliflower for added flavor and nutrition.
How do I thicken my Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, consider adding more flour at the beginning or using a cornstarch slurry during cooking.
Is Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthy?
While this soup is creamy and delicious, it also contains nutrients from broccoli and protein from cheese. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet!
Final Thoughts
Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!
Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Indulge in a warm bowl of Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, the ultimate comfort food that is perfect for cozy evenings or casual lunches. This creamy, flavorful soup combines fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese to create a delightful dish everyone will love. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can savor this delicious soup paired with crusty bread or served in a sourdough bowl. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying appetizer, this soup is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Elevate your cooking experience with easy-to-follow instructions and tips for customization, making it your own.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Ingredients
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ onion (chopped)
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 celery stalk (finely diced)
- 2½ cups broccoli (chopped)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups for soup, 1 cup for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping the onions, celery, and broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and sauté the chopped onion until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Stir in chicken stock, season with salt and pepper, then add diced celery and broccoli. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to medium-low; simmer until vegetables are tender (approximately 15 minutes).
- Incorporate whole milk and simmer until the soup thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 2-3 minutes).
- Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Adjust seasoning if needed, serve hot garnished with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Use fresh broccoli for better flavor. Gradually add cheese to prevent clumping. Consider blending the soup for an ultra-smooth texture.
