Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Name: Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 3 carrots, scrubbed and cut into 1/2 to 3/4-inch pieces; 8 cups broccoli florets (about 2 heads); 3 cups cauliflower florets (about 12 ounces or 1 small head); 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons); 4 cups low sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth; ½ cup 2% milk, whole milk, or half-and-half; 1 to 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (to taste); ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional); 4 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan or 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

March 9, 2025

Updated:

March 9, 2025

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Broccoli cheddar soup is one of those cozy dishes that brings a smile to your face, doesn’t it? Imagine curling up on a chilly night with a warm bowl of velvety soup, rich in cheesy goodness and packed with healthy veggies. It’s like a hug in a bowl! This soup is not just easy to make; it’s a delightful experience that makes your kitchen smell amazing. The combination of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a few simple ingredients transforms into something incredibly satisfying.

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You don’t need a culinary degree to whip this up; it’s perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Plus, it’s easy to customize to your taste! Whether you enjoy it chunky or smooth, this recipe delivers a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out. Ready to make your own irresistible batch of broccoli cheddar soup? Let’s get started!

Why This Recipe Works

This broccoli cheddar soup recipe achieves the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor, reminiscent of your favorite café version. By using fresh ingredients and a careful cooking process, the natural sweetness of the vegetables shines through, complemented by the rich, sharp notes of cheddar. The step of coating the cheese in cornstarch ensures that it melts seamlessly, resulting in a silky texture that begs for more.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup

You’ll fall in love with this comforting bowl of broccoli cheddar soup for its warmth, richness, and delightful cheesiness. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that not only nourishes the body but also the soul. Perfect for chilly nights, this recipe highlights the delightful flavors of broccoli and cheddar, making it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or a soothing choice on busy weeknights.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
3 carrots, scrubbed and cut into 1/2 to 3/4-inch pieces
8 cups broccoli florets (about 2 heads)
3 cups cauliflower florets (about 12 ounces or 1 small head)
2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
4 cups low sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
½ cup 2% milk, whole milk, or half-and-half
1 to 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (to taste)
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
4 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
¼ cup finely grated Parmesan or 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast

Cooking the Base of the Soup

Sauté Onion and Carrots

In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and tender, which takes about 5 to 8 minutes. You’ll notice a lovely aroma filling your kitchen.

Add Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Garlic

Mix in the chopped carrots, broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, and minced garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender. This step retains the vibrant color and fresh taste, making the soup even more inviting.

Incorporate the Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce to a gentle simmer and cook until all the vegetables are completely tender, which takes about 15 minutes. The broth absorbs the flavors wonderfully, creating a comforting base.

Blending the Soup

Puree to Desired Consistency

Using either a blender in batches or an immersion blender directly in the pot, puree the soup until you achieve your preferred texture—smooth or slightly chunky, depending on your preference. Remember, blending it smoother makes for a richer mouthfeel, while a chunkier version offers more texture.

Finishing Touches

Stir in Dairy and Seasonings

Return the pot to low heat, then stir in the milk (or half-and-half), Dijon mustard, ground nutmeg, and cayenne pepper if desired. These ingredients add layers of flavor that elevate the soup to a whole new level.

Add Cheese for Creaminess

In a bowl, combine the shredded cheddar with cornstarch and toss to coat. Slowly add small handfuls of this cheese to the soup, stirring continuously until fully melted before adding more. Finish by incorporating the grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast. This step ensures that your soup is extra creamy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with crusty bread, topped with extra cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a delightful touch. The contrast of flavors and textures makes each bite a delight!

Tips for Success

Cheese Quality: Always use block cheese and shred it yourself to ensure a smoother melt.
Texture Preference: Control the blending stage to achieve your desired soup consistency—smooth or chunky.
Broth Choice: Choose low sodium broth to manage the soup’s flavorful balance while keeping it comforting.

Variations

Add Protein: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier meal. It’s a delicious way to make the soup even more filling!
Vegan Option: Substitute dairy with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese. This keeps the soup creamy without any animal products.

Storage Tips

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much. This makes it easy to enjoy your delicious soup later!

Pairing Ideas

This broccoli cheddar soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or a ham and cheese sandwich, making it a complete cozy meal. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a cozy dinner, this combination is sure to satisfy.

FAQs

1. Can I make broccoli cheddar soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

2. How can I thicken my broccoli cheddar soup?

You can add more cornstarch mixed with a little cold water or use additional cheese to create a thicker consistency.

3. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat ingredients.

4. Can I freeze leftover soup?

Yes, broccoli cheddar soup freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the dairy when freezing, and add it when reheating.

5. What other vegetables can I add to the soup?

Feel free to toss in veggies like potatoes, spinach, or celery for added texture and flavor.

This broccoli cheddar soup is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and satisfaction. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal, this recipe is designed to warm your soul and delight your taste buds.

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Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Ingredients