Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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Broccoli Cheddar Soup

There’s something special about a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup. Creamy, cheesy, and filled with tender broccoli, this recipe brings warmth to any table. Whether you crave comfort on a chilly day or want to recreate that classic café favorite at home, broccoli cheddar soup delivers in both flavor and nostalgia. With thoughtful preparation and a few key techniques, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.

Why Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup at Home?

Homemade broccoli cheddar soup is fresher, more flavorful, and fully customizable. You have control over everything—from the cheese you choose to the size of your broccoli pieces. You can tailor the level of richness, tweak the seasonings, and even experiment with add-ins like extra vegetables or spices. Plus, by skipping artificial thickeners or preservatives found in some ready-made options, you get pure, wholesome taste.

Key Ingredients

To achieve that signature creamy texture and robust cheesy flavor, it’s important to select the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Step-By-Step Recipe

1. Prep Your Vegetables and Cheese

• Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized florets. Cut long stems into small pieces so they cook evenly.
• Peel and shred carrots or slice them thinly.
• Dice the onion and mince fresh garlic cloves.
• Shred sharp cheddar cheese yourself for the smoothest result. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well due to added anti-caking agents.

2. Sauté Aromatics

Set a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Melt the butter until foamy but not brown. Add onions and cook, stirring often, until they begin to soften and turn translucent (about 4 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Build the Roux

Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic. Stir well to coat everything. Cook the flour-butter mixture for 2 minutes. This crucial step removes any raw flour taste and ensures a velvety soup.

4. Add Broth and Veggies

Gradually pour in your broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once smooth, add the carrots and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the carrots cook for 3–4 minutes to begin softening.

Add broccoli florets and stems. Stir, cover, and simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Season and Add Dairy

Stir in Dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Lower the heat to medium-low.

Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Add cheddar a handful at a time, stirring after each addition until the cheese melts completely. Avoid boiling at this stage; high heat can cause the cheese to separate or become grainy.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

6. Choose Your Texture

For a classic, chunky broccoli cheddar soup, leave the vegetables as is. For a smoother, café-style soup, use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup to your liking. You can also transfer a few cups to a blender, blend carefully, and return it to the pot.

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Use fresh broccoli when possible. It holds its shape and color, delivering the best flavor and appearance.
• Shred your own cheese. Block cheese melts smoothly and imparts a silkier texture.
• Cook flour with butter for exactly 2 minutes. This keeps the soup from tasting starchy.
• Let cheese come to room temperature before stirring it in. Cold cheese doesn’t melt as easily and can clump.
• Don’t boil after adding cheese and cream. Gentle heat keeps the soup creamy and prevents splitting.

Optional Variations

Broccoli cheddar soup adapts well to different tastes. Try these ideas:

• Add diced potatoes for a heartier soup.
• Stir in a handful of cauliflower with the broccoli for extra depth.
• Use white cheddar, Gruyère, or a cheese blend for a twist on flavor.
• Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for gentle heat.
• Top with crispy bacon, homemade croutons, or extra shredded cheese for added crunch and richness.

Serving Suggestions

A rich soup pairs well with contrasting textures on the side. Consider these ideas:

• Thick, crusty artisan bread for dunking.
• Homemade garlic bread or fresh dinner rolls.
• Buttery crackers or sourdough toast.
• A light green salad tossed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted vegetable medley for added nourishment.

For a café-inspired meal, serve the soup in a hollowed boule or bread bowl. Sprinkle extra cheese and a pinch of black pepper on top, or a drizzle of olive oil for shine.

Storage and Reheating

Broccoli cheddar soup keeps well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Cool the soup completely, then transfer to a lidded container.

To reheat:
Warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often to restore smoothness. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much in the fridge. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring after each minute.

Freezer note:
Dairy-based soups often separate after freezing and thawing. For best results, make and enjoy this broccoli cheddar soup fresh, or refrigerate for short-term use only.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cheddar cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar gives you the most flavor. Experiment with extra-sharp for bolder taste, or use mild cheddar for a gentler profile.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The texture should remain creamy.

What are the best toppings?

Some favorites include:
– Chopped chives or scallions
– Crispy bacon bits
– Roasted sunflower seeds
– A swirl of hot sauce or smoked paprika

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Milk (whole or 2%) will make a lighter soup. For best flavor and texture, start with cream and add milk as desired to reach your preferred consistency.

Nutritional Overview

Here’s a general guideline for one serving:

These numbers vary based on exact ingredients and serving size.

Broccoli cheddar soup is a beloved classic for a reason. It blends the earthy green notes of broccoli with sharp, nutty cheese, all cloaked in a silky, creamy broth. This soup fits weeknight quick meals, rainy-day comforts, and family gatherings alike.

Follow this recipe and you’ll have a dish that invites second helpings and cozy memories around the table. Whether dunked with bread or enjoyed with a crisp salad, every spoonful brings satisfaction.