Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Truly the BEST Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe! It’s perfectly cheesy, hearty, rich, and creamy. This comforting soup is super easy to make and pairs wonderfully with fresh bread for a delicious cozy dinner. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a special gathering, this recipe suits various occasions and promises to delight your taste buds every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and quick cooking times, this soup can be on your table in just 25 minutes.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese brings a delightful depth of flavor that’s sure to please everyone.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main dish or paired with sandwiches and salads, making it suitable for lunch or dinner.
• Healthful Ingredients: Packed with fresh broccoli, this soup not only satisfies but also provides nutritional benefits.
• Customizable: Feel free to add in your favorite spices or proteins for an extra twist!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather these essential tools that will make your Broccoli Cheese Soup preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A sturdy pot is crucial for even cooking and allows enough space for all ingredients to blend beautifully.
• Whisk: This tool is perfect for preventing lumps when adding flour and liquid together.
• Cutting board: A good cutting board keeps your workspace organized while prepping vegetables.
• Ladle: Using a ladle makes serving the soup clean and easy.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 6 Tbsp butter, (cut into 1 Tbsp pieces)
– 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 1 large clove garlic, (finely minced)
– 1/4 cup + 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 3 1/4 cups low-fat milk, (then more to thin if desired)
– 1 (14.5 oz) can low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 3 cups (packed) finely chopped fresh broccoli florets
– 10 oz (2 1/2 cups) sharp cheddar cheese (or extra sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for serving)
– 1 oz (1/3 cup) finely shredded Parmesan cheese
– salt and freshly ground black pepper, (to taste)

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook, stirring frequently until they are nearly soft, about 4 – 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Flour

Add minced garlic and flour to the pot. Cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly to combine well.

Step 3: Combine Milk and Broth

While whisking continuously, slowly pour in low-fat milk followed by the low-sodium chicken broth. Stir in the finely chopped broccoli florets.

Step 4: Thicken the Mixture

Cook while stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken. Lower the heat to low, allowing it to cook while stirring very frequently until the broccoli is tender, which will take about 6 – 8 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Cheese

Remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream along with both sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, mixing until fully melted.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm with additional cheddar on top if desired. Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Serving Broccoli Cheese Soup can elevate your dining experience. This creamy and cheesy soup pairs well with various accompaniments, making your meal satisfying and enjoyable.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve with crusty baguette or sourdough for a delightful dip.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Add a sprinkle of sharp cheddar or Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy touch.

Garnished with Croutons

• Use homemade or store-bought croutons for added crunch and texture.

A Side Salad

• Pair with a light salad to balance the richness of the soup.

With Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Enjoy alongside a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting combo.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds a flavorful finish.

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How to Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

To make the best Broccoli Cheese Soup, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh florets provide better flavor and texture than frozen.

• Grate your cheese: Shredded cheese melts more evenly into the soup compared to pre-packaged options.

• Adjust creaminess: For a thicker soup, use less milk or add more flour during cooking.

• Season gradually: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly for perfect seasoning.

• Blend if desired: For a smoother consistency, blend part of the soup before adding the cheese.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Complement your Broccoli Cheese Soup with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread provides an aromatic side perfect for dipping.

2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch to balance the creamy soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer a healthy contrast in flavor and texture.

4. Stuffed Baked Potatoes: These hearty potatoes stuffed with cheese and herbs make a filling addition.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings protein and nutty flavors that pair nicely with the soup.

6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich soup.

7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the soup.

8. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance while complementing the flavors of broccoli cheese soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup can be simple, but certain mistakes might ruin your dish. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality cheese or vegetables can compromise flavor. Always choose fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese for the best results.
• Overcooking broccoli: If you cook broccoli too long, it can become mushy. Aim for a tender texture without losing its vibrant color.
• Not whisking properly: Failing to whisk the flour and milk thoroughly can lead to lumps in your soup. Make sure to whisk constantly when adding liquids.
• Skipping seasoning: A bland soup is disappointing. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold milk or broth can affect the cooking process. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before you begin.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Broccoli Cheese Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

• You can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container as the soup may expand when frozen.

Reheating Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the soup in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over low heat. Stir often until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe:

How do I make a healthier version of Broccoli Cheese Soup?

You can use skim or unsweetened almond milk instead of whole milk and reduce the amount of cheese for fewer calories.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the soup.

What types of cheese are best for Broccoli Cheese Soup?

Sharp cheddar is ideal, but you can also experiment with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

How can I thicken my Broccoli Cheese Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it simmer longer or add more flour mixed with a little water.

Can I add other vegetables to my Broccoli Cheese Soup?

Absolutely! Carrots, cauliflower, or even spinach can be great additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is not just comforting; it’s also versatile and easy to customize. You can tweak it by adding spices or extra veggies based on your preferences. Try this rich and creamy delight today!