This comforting and creamy broccoli cheddar soup recipe is a hearty dish that you can whip up in no time. Packed with nutritious broccoli and a blend of cheeses, it's the perfect blend of health and indulgence.
The ingredients for this recipe are mostly common kitchen staples. However, light cream and cream cheese, which are essential for the soup's rich consistency, are something you may need to pick up from the supermarket. Also, note that the recipe calls for sharp cheddar, which has a more intense flavor compared to mild or medium cheddar.
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Butter: Adds flavor and helps saute the onion and garlic.
Onion: Gives the soup an aromatic base.
Garlic: Adds depth to the flavor profile.
Broccoli: The key ingredient that is rich in nutrients.
Chicken broth: Provides the liquid base of the soup.
Thyme: Enhances the soup with a subtle, earthy flavor.
Salt and pepper: Season to taste.
Light cream: Gives the soup a creamy, rich texture.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the soup.
Cream cheese: Adds creaminess and a slight tang.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Gives the soup a bold, cheesy flavor.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
One reader, Christiane Aguayo says:
This broccoli cheddar soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the texture is velvety smooth. It's the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and wholesome broccoli. I highly recommend trying it - it's a definite crowd-pleaser!
Key Techniques for Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup
How to sauté onions and garlic: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until tender, stirring occasionally.
How to blend the soup: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, ensuring there are no large chunks of broccoli left.
How to thicken the soup: Combine the light cream and cornstarch, then whisk the mixture into the soup. Simmer until the soup thickens, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
How to melt the cheese: Remove the soup from the heat, then stir in the cheddar and parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
How to serve: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve immediately, optionally garnishing with additional shredded cheddar cheese or a sprinkle of fresh thyme.
How To Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Enjoy a hearty bowl of cheddar soup for the cold winter nights! It’s loaded with tasteful broccoli and three kinds of cheeses.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tbspbutter
- 1onion,small, diced
- 1garlic clove
- 4cupsfresh broccoli,or frozen
- 2cupschicken broth
- ½tspthyme
- salt and pepper ,to taste
- 12ozlight cream,or evaporated milk
- 1tbspcornstarch
- 4ozcream cheese
- 1½cupssharp cheddar cheese,divided
- ⅓cupfresh parmesan cheese
Instructions
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In a saucepan, cook the onion and garlic in butter over medium heat until tender.
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Add the broccoli, chicken broth, thyme and salt, pepper.
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Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until broccoli is tender, for 8 minutes.
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Remove 1 cup of broccoli from the saucepan, coarsely chop them, then set aside.
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Using an immersion blender, blend the remaining soup.
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Combine cream and cornstarch.
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Bring the soup to a boil and whisk in the cream mixture and cream cheese. Simmer until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
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Remove from the heat, then stir in cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese and the reserved chopped broccoli.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 479.31kcal
- Fat: 40.45g
- Saturated Fat: 23.87g
- Trans Fat: 0.47g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.17g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.57g
- Carbohydrates: 13.89g
- Fiber: 2.18g
- Sugar: 5.63g
- Protein: 17.34g
- Cholesterol: 130.49mg
- Sodium: 659.21mg
- Calcium: 419.51mg
- Potassium: 434.19mg
- Iron: 0.97mg
- Vitamin A: 367.44µg
- Vitamin C: 56.42mg
Expert Tip for Perfecting Broccoli Cheddar Soup
When blending the soup with an immersion blender, be sure to leave some texture. This will give your broccoli cheddar soup a more satisfying, chunky consistency. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender, but be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid steam build-up. After blending, return the soup to the heat and continue with the recipe.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Soup
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Opt for a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.
Quick cook: Use a pressure cooker or instant pot for faster cooking times.
Frozen convenience: Utilize frozen broccoli to skip the prep work and save time.
Blender magic: Use a high-speed blender for a quicker and smoother puree.
Substitute Ingredients For Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a rich flavor and can be a healthier alternative to butter.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle taste to the soup.
garlic clove - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for chopping or mincing.
fresh broccoli - Substitute with frozen broccoli: Frozen broccoli can be a convenient alternative and works well in soups, maintaining its nutritional value.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian-friendly alternative and still provides a flavorful base for the soup.
thyme - Substitute with rosemary: Rosemary can add a slightly different herbaceous flavor, complementing the soup with its aromatic notes.
light cream - Substitute with whole milk: Whole milk can be used as a lighter alternative to light cream, providing a creamy texture to the soup.
cornstarch - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a thickening agent, similar to cornstarch, to achieve the desired consistency in the soup.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can add creaminess and a tangy flavor, serving as a healthier alternative to cream cheese.
sharp cheddar cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese can provide a rich and nutty flavor, similar to cheddar, enhancing the taste of the soup.
fresh parmesan cheese - Substitute with Pecorino Romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese offers a similar salty and tangy flavor, making it a suitable substitute for Parmesan in the soup.
Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Elevate the plating: When presenting the broccoli cheddar soup, focus on creating a visually appealing dish. Use a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the soup. Ensure that the soup is garnished with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of elegance.
Incorporate texture: Add a crunchy element to the dish by serving the soup with a side of artisanal sourdough bread. Toasted and thinly sliced, the bread can be arranged in a fan shape alongside the bowl, providing a delightful contrast in texture to the creamy soup.
Highlight the cheese: As the star ingredient of the dish, the cheddar cheese should be showcased. Grate a small amount of extra sharp cheddar and sprinkle it over the soup just before serving. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Artful drizzling: Use a squeeze bottle to create an artistic drizzle of cream on the surface of the soup. This technique adds a professional touch and elevates the visual appeal of the dish, demonstrating attention to detail.
Garnish with fresh herbs: A final flourish of finely chopped chives or parsley on top of the soup will provide a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor, enhancing the overall presentation and signaling the use of high-quality, fresh ingredients.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Saucepan: A saucepan is a versatile kitchen tool used for cooking, boiling, and simmering various ingredients. It typically has a handle and a lid, making it ideal for preparing soups, sauces, and stews.
Immersion blender: An immersion blender, also known as a hand blender, is a convenient tool for blending and pureeing ingredients directly in the cooking pot or container. It's perfect for creating smooth and creamy soups without the need to transfer hot liquids to a traditional blender.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for blending, whipping, and incorporating ingredients. It's essential for achieving a smooth and uniform texture in the soup and for combining the cream mixture with the soup base.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a staple in any kitchen and is used for combining ingredients, marinating, and mixing various components of a recipe. It's essential for preparing the cream and cornstarch mixture in this broccoli cheddar soup recipe.
Cheese grater: A cheese grater is a tool used to grate or shred cheese, and it's essential for obtaining the fresh parmesan and sharp cheddar cheese required for this recipe.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing ingredients, such as chopping the fresh broccoli before adding it to the soup.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurement is crucial in cooking, and using measuring cups and spoons ensures the precise amounts of ingredients are added to the recipe.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Let the broccoli cheddar soup cool down to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to spoilage.
Store the cooled soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date of preparation so you can keep track of its freshness.
If you want to freeze the soup for later consumption, pour it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the containers or bags with the date of freezing and the name of the soup. This will help you identify the contents easily when you want to thaw and reheat the soup.
When freezing, consider portioning the soup into individual servings. This way, you can thaw and reheat only the amount you need, without having to defrost the entire batch.
To thaw the frozen broccoli cheddar soup, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw the soup in the microwave using the defrost setting.
Once thawed, reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. You may need to add a little water or chicken broth to adjust the consistency if the soup has thickened during freezing.
Do not refreeze the soup once it has been thawed. Refreezing can affect the texture and quality of the soup, and it may also increase the risk of bacterial growth.
Properly stored, the broccoli cheddar soup can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. However, for the best flavor and texture, it is recommended to consume the soup within 1 month of freezing.
Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup for Best Results
- The best way to reheat leftover broccoli cheddar soup is to use a saucepan on the stovetop over low to medium heat. This method allows you to control the temperature and stir the soup frequently, ensuring even heating and preventing scorching.
- If you're short on time, you can also reheat the soup in the microwave. Transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cream and cheese to separate.
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth when reheating the soup. This will help to loosen the consistency and restore its original creaminess.
- If you find that the soup has thickened too much during storage, gradually whisk in some additional chicken broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.
- To enhance the flavor of the reheated soup, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated cheddar cheese, a dash of black pepper, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick of heat.
- If you have any leftover broccoli florets, you can add them to the soup during the last few minutes of reheating for added texture and freshness.
- When reheating, be sure to stir the soup frequently and heat it until it's just steaming and heated through. Avoid boiling the soup, as this can cause the ingredients to break down and affect the overall texture.
Interesting Trivia About Broccoli Cheddar Soup
The broccoli cheddar soup recipe is a popular comfort food that originated in the United States. It is often enjoyed during the colder months and is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. This soup is a great source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and calcium, thanks to the broccoli and cheese. It's a delicious way to incorporate these nutrients into your diet, especially during the winter season.
Budget-Friendly: Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup at Home
The broccoli cheddar soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Broccoli and cheddar are affordable and readily available ingredients. The addition of chicken broth and cream may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense is still reasonable. The recipe yields a hearty and satisfying soup, making it a worthwhile investment. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Is Broccoli Cheddar Soup Healthy?
The broccoli cheddar soup recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It's also low in calories and contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation and protect against certain cancers. The recipe also includes onion and garlic, which offer additional health benefits.
However, the recipe's main drawbacks are the high amounts of dairy products, including light cream, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese. These ingredients are high in saturated fat and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and increased risk of heart disease if consumed in excess. The recipe also lacks lean protein sources and additional vegetables that could enhance its nutritional value.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace the light cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative like almond milk to reduce the saturated fat content
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar cheese to lower the calorie and fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture
- Increase the amount of broccoli and add other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower to boost the fiber and nutrient content
- Include a lean protein source, such as diced chicken breast or white beans, to make the soup more filling and balanced
- Reduce the amount of cheese used overall, and opt for more flavorful varieties like sharp cheddar or aged parmesan to maintain taste while using less
Editor's Opinion on This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
The broccoli cheddar soup recipe you provided is a classic and comforting dish. The combination of fresh broccoli, creamy cheddar cheese, and aromatic thyme creates a rich and flavorful soup. The addition of cream cheese and parmesan adds a delightful creaminess and depth of flavor. However, to enhance the dish, consider adding a hint of nutmeg or a splash of white wine for complexity. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a cozy and satisfying meal.
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Why trust this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful broccoli cheddar soup experience. The use of fresh broccoli and chicken broth ensures a rich and authentic flavor. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese provides a creamy and indulgent texture. The incorporation of thyme and garlic infuses aromatic depth. The method of blending the soup and adding a mixture of light cream and cream cheese results in a velvety consistency. These carefully selected ingredients and meticulous steps promise a trustworthy and satisfying soup that will undoubtedly impress.
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