Indulge in a warm, hearty bowl of broccoli cheddar soup that’s perfect for chilly days. This recipe combines the creaminess of cheddar cheese with the nutritious goodness of broccoli, all brought together with a flavorful blend of spices and half-and-half. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Some ingredients you may not commonly find at home include vegetable stock powder and mustard powder. These can typically be found in the spice or soup aisle of your supermarket. Ensure you also have half-and-half, which is a mixture of milk and cream, providing a rich texture to the soup.
Ingredients for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic.
yellow onion: Provides a base flavor for the soup.
garlic cloves: Infuses the soup with aromatic, savory notes.
all-purpose flour: Thickens the soup to a creamy consistency.
chicken stock: Adds depth and a savory backbone to the soup.
half-and-half: A blend of milk and cream that adds richness and smoothness.
salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
cracked black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.
vegetable stock powder: Intensifies the flavor of the soup.
mustard powder: Adds a subtle tang and depth.
garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor without overpowering.
broccoli florets: The star ingredient, providing texture and nutrition.
carrots: Adds sweetness and color to the soup.
cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup to create a creamy, cheesy finish.
One reader, Damaris Hong says:
This easy broccoli cheddar soup recipe is fantastic! The flavors blend perfectly, and it's so creamy and comforting. My family loved it, and it was a breeze to make. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Techniques Required for Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Yes.
How to melt butter: Place butter in a pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it is fully melted. How to fry onions: Cook chopped onions in melted butter until they become fragrant and slightly translucent. How to whisk in flour: Gradually add flour to the pot while continuously whisking to avoid lumps and cook until the mixture turns golden brown. How to pour and stir liquids: Slowly add chicken stock and half-and-half to the pot while stirring to combine and dissolve the flour. How to simmer: Cook the mixture at a low temperature, allowing it to gently bubble without boiling, until the broccoli is tender. How to mix in cheese: Add cheese to the hot soup and stir until it is fully melted and combined.
How To Make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Have a warm bowl of broccoli cheddar soup with this easy recipe! In just 30 minutes, you have flavorful soup with tender broccoli and tasty cheddar cheese.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ⅓cupbutter
- 1yellow onion,chopped
- 4garlic cloves,finely chopped or minced
- ⅓cupall-purpose flour,or plain flour
- 2cupschicken stock,good-quality low sodium
- 3cupshalf-and-half,or evaporated milk or regular milk
- ¾tspsalt,or more to taste
- ½tspcracked black pepper,or more to taste
- 1tspvegetable stock powder,or chicken bouillon powder
- 1tspmustard powder
- 1tspgarlic powder
- 1lbbroccoli florets,cut into small pieces
- 2large carrots,peeled and grated
- 2cupscheddar cheese,low-fat, sharp
Instructions
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Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
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Fry the onion for about 2 minutes, or until fragrant. Add in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Whisk in the flour and cook for a few minutes or until golden brown.
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Reduce heat to medium-low and slowly pour in the chicken stock and half-and-half, stirring well to combine and dissolve the flour into the liquid.
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Season with salt and pepper, stock powder, mustard powder, and garlic powder. Give it a good mix and allow to cook and thicken for about 5 minutes, while stirring occasionally.
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Add in the broccoli and carrots and gently simmer for another 20 minutes, until broccoli is completely tender.
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Mix in cheese and stir until just combined. Taste test and add in extra salt and/or pepper if desired.
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Serve with bread rolls! Enjoy.
Recipe Notes
For an even thicker consistency, mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water or milk, and add to the soup when it’s simmering. Mix through well and allow to thicken.
Nutrition
- Calories: 395.08kcal
- Fat: 30.40g
- Saturated Fat: 18.00g
- Trans Fat: 0.70g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.21g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.45g
- Carbohydrates: 17.56g
- Fiber: 1.05g
- Sugar: 6.52g
- Protein: 15.02g
- Cholesterol: 89.37mg
- Sodium: 583.69mg
- Calcium: 364.29mg
- Potassium: 493.55mg
- Iron: 1.16mg
- Vitamin A: 475.54µg
- Vitamin C: 56.49mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting This Soup Recipe
To achieve a smoother texture in your broccoli cheddar soup, consider using an immersion blender to partially blend the broccoli and carrots after they have simmered. This will create a creamier consistency while still leaving some chunks for added texture.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Soup Recipe
Pre-chop vegetables: Chop the broccoli and carrots in advance or buy pre-cut versions to save time.
Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to skip the grating step.
Microwave the broccoli: Partially cook the broccoli florets in the microwave for a few minutes before adding them to the soup to reduce simmering time.
Instant pot option: Use an Instant Pot to speed up the cooking process, especially for softening the vegetables.
Frozen vegetables: Use frozen broccoli and carrots to cut down on prep time.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar fat content and can add a slightly different but pleasant flavor.
yellow onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter taste, which can add a subtle complexity to the soup.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken the soup similarly and is gluten-free.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock is a great vegetarian alternative and provides a similar depth of flavor.
half-and-half - Substitute with whole milk: Whole milk can be used for a lighter version of the soup, though it will be less creamy.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a different layer of umami and saltiness to the soup.
cracked black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and won't add black specks to the soup.
vegetable stock powder - Substitute with miso paste: Miso paste can add a rich umami flavor and depth to the soup.
mustard powder - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can provide a similar tangy flavor, though it will add a bit more moisture.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can add a different but complementary flavor to the soup.
broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower has a similar texture and can be used to create a different but equally delicious soup.
carrots - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a different sweetness and a slightly different texture to the soup.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese melts well and adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor to the soup.
Best Way to Present This Comforting Soup
Serve in a bread bowl: Hollow out a round bread roll and ladle the broccoli cheddar soup into the center. The bread will soak up the flavors, adding an extra layer of deliciousness.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley or chives on top of the soup for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
Add a cheese crisp: Create a cheddar cheese crisp by baking shredded cheddar until golden and crispy. Place the crisp on top of the soup for an elegant touch and added texture.
Drizzle with cream: Use a small spoon to drizzle a swirl of half-and-half or heavy cream on the surface of the soup. This adds a creamy visual appeal and enhances the richness.
Serve with a side salad: Pair the soup with a small, well-dressed green salad to balance the richness of the cheddar cheese and broccoli.
Use a soup tureen: Present the soup in a beautiful soup tureen with a ladle, allowing guests to serve themselves. This adds a touch of elegance and communal dining experience.
Top with microgreens: Add a small handful of microgreens on top of the soup just before serving. They provide a delicate crunch and a sophisticated look.
Serve with artisanal bread: Accompany the soup with slices of artisanal bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta, to enhance the dining experience with high-quality, flavorful bread.
Use a contrasting bowl: Serve the soup in a dark-colored bowl to make the vibrant broccoli and cheddar cheese colors pop, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Add a touch of spice: Sprinkle a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper on top of the soup for a hint of heat and a pop of color.
Essential Tools for Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Large pot or Dutch oven: This is essential for cooking the soup as it provides ample space for all the ingredients to simmer and blend together.
Whisk: Useful for combining the flour with the butter and ensuring a smooth mixture when adding the liquids.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the soup and ensuring that the ingredients are well mixed without scratching the pot.
Chef's knife: Necessary for chopping the onion, garlic, broccoli, and carrots into the appropriate sizes.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping all the vegetables.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the butter, flour, chicken stock, and half-and-half.
Measuring spoons: Needed for measuring the salt, pepper, stock powder, mustard powder, and garlic powder.
Grater: Used for grating the cheddar cheese if it is not pre-shredded.
Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup into bowls.
Garlic press: Optional but useful for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Peeler: Handy for peeling the carrots before chopping them.
Soup bowls: For serving the finished soup.
Bread knife: If you are serving the soup with bread rolls, this will be useful for slicing the bread.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Once the broccoli cheddar soup has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion if you plan to freeze the soup.
If using a container, seal it tightly with a lid. If using a freezer bag, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification later on.
To store the soup in the refrigerator, place the sealed container or bag in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The soup will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little chicken stock or water when reheating to thin it out to your desired consistency.
To freeze the soup, place the sealed container or bag in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the broccoli cheddar soup in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken stock or water to adjust the consistency if it's too thick.
Note: The soup may have a slightly grainy texture after freezing and reheating due to the cheese and half-and-half. To minimize this, avoid bringing the soup to a boil when reheating and stir gently to redistribute the ingredients.
How To Reheat Leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup
The best way to reheat leftover broccoli cheddar soup is to use a saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat. Pour the desired amount of soup into the pan and stir occasionally until it reaches your preferred temperature. This method allows for even heating and prevents the soup from becoming too thick or clumpy.
If you're in a hurry, 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 it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat the soup, as this can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy.
For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of half-and-half or milk to the soup while reheating. This will help to loosen up the consistency and make it more enjoyable to eat.
If you find that your reheated soup is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a small amount of chicken stock or water until you reach your desired consistency.
To enhance the flavor of your leftover soup, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh black pepper, a dash of garlic powder, or some shredded cheddar cheese on top just before serving.
Interesting Fact About Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A random fact about this broccoli cheddar soup recipe is that it combines the nutritional benefits of broccoli and carrots, both rich in vitamins and fiber, with the comforting and creamy texture of cheddar cheese.
Is Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup at Home Cost-Effective?
This broccoli cheddar soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With basic ingredients like butter, onion, garlic, flour, chicken stock, half-and-half, broccoli, carrots, and cheddar cheese, the total cost is approximately $15-$20 USD for a household of 4 people. Given its simplicity and the use of common pantry items, it scores a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.
Is This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?
This broccoli cheddar soup recipe, while comforting and delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe uses a significant amount of butter and half-and-half, which are high in saturated fat and calories.
- Cheddar cheese is also high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess.
- The recipe lacks a variety of vegetables, focusing mainly on broccoli and carrots, which limits the range of nutrients.
- The use of all-purpose flour and chicken stock may add unnecessary calories and sodium to the dish.
To make this soup healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the butter with olive oil, which is a healthier fat option.
- Use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative instead of half-and-half to reduce the saturated fat content.
- Incorporate a variety of vegetables, such as cauliflower, zucchini, or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density of the soup.
- Opt for whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to add more fiber to the recipe.
- Use low-sodium chicken stock or vegetable stock to reduce the overall sodium content.
- Reduce the amount of cheddar cheese used, or choose a lower-fat cheese option, such as reduced-fat cheddar or parmesan.
- Add herbs and spices, like thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika, to enhance the flavor without relying on excess salt or fat.
Editor's Opinion on This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
This broccoli cheddar soup recipe is a comforting classic with a rich, creamy base and a delightful balance of flavors. The use of both chicken stock and half-and-half ensures a velvety texture, while the combination of mustard and garlic powders adds depth. The inclusion of fresh broccoli and carrots provides a nutritious element, and the cheddar cheese brings a satisfying sharpness. Overall, it's a well-rounded, easy-to-follow recipe that promises a delicious, hearty meal. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Enhance Your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe:
This broccoli cheddar soup recipe is a must-try for its simplicity and rich flavor. The combination of butter, onion, and garlic creates a fragrant base, while the chicken stock and half-and-half ensure a creamy texture. The addition of broccoli and carrots not only adds nutritional value but also a delightful crunch. Finally, the cheddar cheese brings everything together with its melty goodness. Perfect for a cozy meal, this recipe is both easy to follow and incredibly satisfying.
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