Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Truly the BEST Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe! This delightful dish is a perfect blend of creamy cheese and fresh broccoli, making it a comforting choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this soup stands out with its rich flavors and easy preparation. Pair it with some crusty bread for an even more satisfying experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Creamy Comfort: The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, velvety texture that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a hearty side dish; this soup fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh broccoli, this recipe offers both flavor and health benefits.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the cheese types or add in your favorite spices to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Broccoli Cheese Soup is simple with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious recipe easily.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing for easy stirring.
• Whisk: Helps combine liquids smoothly, preventing lumps when adding flour and broth.
• Cutting board: A stable surface for chopping vegetables ensures safety and efficiency during prep.

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 in finely chopped onions and cook while 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 create a roux.

Step 3: Pour in Liquids

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

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

Cook while stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken. Lower the heat and allow to cook, stirring very frequently, until broccoli is tender, about 6 – 8 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream followed by sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm with additional cheddar if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Broccoli Cheese Soup! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Serving Broccoli Cheese Soup is not just about ladling it into bowls; it’s an opportunity to enhance the meal experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A thick slice of crusty bread makes for perfect dipping, soaking up the creamy broth.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top adds color and a burst of flavor.

Top with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, adding more shredded cheddar on top before serving creates a melty, indulgent experience.

Serve with Crackers

• Crunchy crackers can add texture contrast to the smooth soup, making every spoonful exciting.

Include a Salad

• A light green salad provides freshness and balances the richness of the soup, making for a well-rounded meal.

Garnish with Bacon Bits

• Crispy bacon bits add a savory crunch that complements the creamy broccoli cheese soup beautifully.

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How to Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

To ensure your Broccoli Cheese Soup turns out perfectly creamy and flavorful, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets provide better texture and taste compared to frozen.

• Whisk constantly: While adding milk and broth, whisk continuously to avoid lumps in your soup mixture.

• Adjust thickness: If the soup is too thick, add more milk gradually until reaching your desired consistency.

• Melt cheese properly: Stir in cheeses off the heat to prevent them from becoming grainy or clumping together.

• Season well: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed; sometimes a little extra seasoning can make all the difference.

• Cool properly: If you need to store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Broccoli Cheese Soup can enhance flavors and create a fulfilling meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: This buttery delight pairs perfectly with the creamy soup, providing a crunchy texture.

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds freshness and tanginess that complements the richness of the soup.

3. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs bring an earthy flavor that matches well with broccoli cheese.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide additional nutrients and contrast nicely with the creamy soup’s texture.

5. Cheese Quesadillas: Simple and cheesy, quesadillas offer a satisfying side that pairs wonderfully with every spoonful of soup.

6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges can be enjoyed alongside or dipped in the broth for added yumminess.

7. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter: For a sweet touch, crispy apple slices drizzled with peanut butter balance out the savory flavors of the soup.

8. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for dipping into your warm bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheese Soup can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using too much flour: Adding excess flour can make the soup too thick. Stick to the recommended amount and adjust if needed after cooking.
• Not cooking the broccoli enough: Undercooked broccoli can be tough and chewy. Ensure you simmer it until it’s tender for a smoother texture.
• Skipping the cheese blend: Using only one type of cheese may limit flavor. Mixing sharp cheddar with Parmesan enhances taste and creaminess.
• Not seasoning properly: Forgetting salt and pepper can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go and season accordingly to elevate flavors.
• Rushing the cooking process: Cooking on high heat may lead to uneven thickness. Slow down, stir often, and allow ingredients to meld together.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe.

How can I make my Broccoli Cheese Soup thicker?

To achieve a thicker consistency, increase the amount of flour slightly or let it simmer longer without a lid.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this 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 combining it with Parmesan adds depth. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.

Can I make this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy with plant-based milk, nutritional yeast for cheese flavor, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter.

How do I store leftovers from this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding ingredients like carrots or potatoes for extra texture. Whether enjoyed as a cozy dinner or paired with fresh bread, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings!