Broccoli Cheese Soup is one of those timeless, comforting dishes that warms the soul on a chilly day. Combining the freshness of broccoli, the sweetness of carrots, and the richness of sharp cheddar cheese, this hearty soup is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a satisfying solo meal. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this Broccoli Cheese Soup at home.
Ingredients
Let’s start by gathering the necessary ingredients. You may already have most of these staples in your kitchen, making this a quick and easy recipe to prepare.
- Broccoli florets: The star of the soup, fresh or frozen broccoli works great. The florets provide texture and earthy flavor to balance the richness of the cheese.
- Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the soup. Opt for shredded carrots for easier cooking.
- Onion: A diced onion brings out a lovely, subtle sweetness when sautéed, forming the soup’s flavorful base.
- Chicken broth: The base liquid of the soup. It adds depth of flavor and makes the soup hearty. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Milk: Creates a creamy texture. Whole milk is preferred, but you can use a lower-fat option if needed.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: The key ingredient that gives this soup its signature cheesy taste. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.
- Butter: Used to sauté the onion and create a roux with the flour to thicken the soup.
- All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup to the perfect consistency.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory flavor that enhances the other ingredients.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the soup to taste.
Ingredients with Quantities
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions and Preparation Method
Now that we’ve assembled the ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process for preparing this delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Dice the onion finely and shred the carrots if not already shredded. Having everything prepped and ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent. This will form the flavor base for the soup.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Next, stir in the all-purpose flour, cooking it with the onions and butter. The flour will absorb the fat from the butter, forming a paste called a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning, until it starts to turn a pale golden color. This step is essential to thicken the soup later on.
Step 4: Add the Chicken Broth
Slowly add the chicken broth to the roux while whisking continuously. This will ensure a smooth mixture without any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes. The soup will begin to thicken slightly during this time.
Step 5: Add Broccoli and Carrots
Once the broth is simmering, add the broccoli florets and shredded carrots. Stir them into the broth, making sure they’re evenly distributed. Let the vegetables cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but not mushy. If you prefer a bit more texture in your soup, you can reduce the cooking time slightly.
Step 6: Stir in Milk and Seasoning
After the vegetables have cooked, stir in the milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture back to a simmer and let it cook for another 5 minutes. The milk will make the soup creamy, while the garlic powder adds a subtle depth of flavor.
Step 7: Add Cheddar Cheese
Now comes the cheesy goodness! Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has fully melted into the soup. Be careful not to let the soup come to a boil once the cheese is added, as this can cause the cheese to separate and result in a grainy texture.
Step 8: Blend or Keep Chunky
At this point, you can choose to leave the soup chunky with visible broccoli pieces or blend a portion of it for a smoother texture. If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, process until smooth, and return it to the pot. Either way, you’ll have a rich, creamy soup with a hint of texture.
Step 9: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even an extra pinch of garlic powder to suit your taste preferences.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot Broccoli Cheese Soup into bowls, and enjoy immediately. This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of bread, homemade croutons, or a light green salad on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative to fresh, and it works just as well in this soup. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen broccoli tends to cook faster. Simply add the frozen florets directly to the soup during Step 5 and cook until heated through.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of Broccoli Cheese Soup by substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth. The flavor will still be delicious and rich, thanks to the cheddar cheese and vegetables.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for this soup because of its bold flavor and smooth melting properties. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Gruyere, or even a combination of cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftover Broccoli Cheese Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid curdling the cheese.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: While you can freeze Broccoli Cheese Soup, keep in mind that dairy-based soups can sometimes separate when frozen and reheated. If you do decide to freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months, and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can either use less chicken broth or increase the amount of flour when making the roux. Another option is to blend more of the soup to create a smoother, creamier texture.
Q: What can I serve with Broccoli Cheese Soup?
A: Broccoli Cheese Soup pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a light salad, or even a sandwich for a more substantial meal. It’s also delicious on its own as a simple, comforting bowl of goodness.
Conclusion
Broccoli Cheese Soup is the epitome of comfort food—warm, cheesy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter night or serving it as a starter for a dinner party, this soup is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and offers a delightful balance of creamy cheese and fresh vegetables.