Introduction
When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving something comforting and satisfying, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup. This recipe is a family favorite, combining the hearty goodness of broccoli with the creamy richness of cheddar cheese. It’s simple to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup is perfect for anyone who loves a warm, cheesy bowl of comfort food. It’s great for busy families looking for a nutritious meal that can be made quickly and easily. The rich and creamy texture, combined with the fresh flavor of broccoli, makes it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some vegetables for those picky eaters in your life.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Sauté
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Simmer
Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, followed by the broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the broccoli is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Blend
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be sure to blend in small batches and hold the lid down with a kitchen towel to avoid any hot splashes.
Add Cheese and Cream
Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is well combined.
Season
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese or croutons if desired.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or regular blender
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Tips and Variations
Tips
- Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: You can use either fresh or frozen broccoli for this recipe. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw it before adding it to the pot.
- Cheese Selection: For the best flavor, use a good quality cheddar cheese. You can also mix in other cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Healthier: Substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream to reduce the fat content. Keep in mind that this will make the soup less creamy.
Variations
- Add Protein: Stir in some cooked chicken or ham to make the soup even more filling.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup has thickened too much, you can add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some ideas:
- Bread: Serve with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
- Drink: Pair with a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea.
FAQ
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stovetop.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together and it will taste even better the next day.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Just be aware that these substitutes will change the texture and flavor slightly.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While you can use pre-shredded cheese for convenience, freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives the soup a smoother texture.
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Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Sauté
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Simmer
Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, followed by the broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the broccoli is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Blend
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be sure to blend in small batches and hold the lid down with a kitchen towel to avoid any hot splashes.
Add Cheese and Cream
Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is well combined.
Season
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese or croutons if desired.