Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

As the chilly winds of winter blow outside, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup to chase those frostbite feelings away. I remember the first time I made this soup; the aroma of melting butter and sautéing onions filled my kitchen, wrapping me in a cozy embrace. With each spoonful, the creamy texture and rich, savory flavors became a comforting hug on a cold day. It’s a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and winter nights spent snuggled on the couch. This soup has become a staple in my home, where it’s not just a meal but a warm reminder of togetherness and comfort. Whether enjoyed on a chilly afternoon or as a hearty side for dinner, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food that warms both the belly and soul.

Ingredients for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

When creating the Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving that comforting flavor and texture. The foundational ingredients, like unsalted butter and yellow onion, kick off the flavor base, while broccoli and carrots bring in nutrition and vibrant colors. The cheddar cheese adds richness, making it feel indulgent while still being wholesome.

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: This creates a rich base for the soup and adds creaminess.
• ½ medium yellow onion, finely minced: Adds aromatic sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the soup and give it that creamy consistency.
• 3 cups low-sodium broth: This is the liquid foundation that brings everything together.
• 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds a natural sweetness and beautiful color.
• 3 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets: The star of the show, packed with nutrients.
• ½ teaspoon seasoned salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
• ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg, optional: A hint of warmth that complements the broccoli.
• 1½ cups half and half: Provides creaminess and richness.
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated: Melts beautifully for that cheesy flavor.
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Adds a nutty flavor that elevates the soup.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.

Cooking Instructions for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Let’s dive into making this delightful soup! It’s all about layering flavors and taking your time to let everything meld perfectly.

1. Begin by heating a heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium heat. Once hot, add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. As it melts, enjoy the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen.
2. Next, add the finely minced ½ medium yellow onion to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent. This step is crucial for developing a sweet base flavor.
3. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour over the softened onions. Whisk them together to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until the flour is lightly toasted. This will thicken our soup later.
4. Slowly pour in 3 cups low-sodium broth, adding it in increments of ½ cup at a time. Whisk continuously to avoid lumps, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Once it starts boiling, add in 1 cup shredded carrots and 3 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets, along with ½ teaspoon seasoned salt and ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
6. Remove the lid and whisk in 1½ cups half and half, 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt fully into the soup, creating a creamy texture. This is where the magic happens!
7. Allow the soup to cook on low heat for an additional 2 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly. This helps the flavors meld beautifully while ensuring everything is heated through.
8. Once everything is combined, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. It’s the finishing touch that makes all the difference.
9. Serve the soup warm, either in bowls or in a bread bowl for a fun touch. It’s the perfect dish for chilly days!

Make It Your Own

There are so many fun ways to put your own spin on this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity!

• Swap the cheese: Use different types of cheese like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
• Try different veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or even cauliflower to boost the nutritional value and alter textures.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.
• Serve differently: Pour the soup over cooked pasta for a hearty meal, or stuff it into baked potatoes.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce for a little kick.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Pairing: Serve with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even grilled cheese for a complete meal.

How to Serve Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ideas for enjoying this dish:

• Serve warm: This soup is best served warm, allowing the flavors to shine.
• Pair with bread: A crusty baguette or garlic bread makes the perfect companion for dipping!
• Add toppings: A sprinkle of croutons or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the presentation.
• Enjoy as a main dish: It’s hearty enough to be a main course, paired with a side salad for balance.
• Perfect for gatherings: This soup is great for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends, making it a crowd-pleaser.
• Seasonal serving: Pair with seasonal salads during summer or serve alongside roasted vegetables in fall.
• Comfort food heaven: Serve it as a comforting option during winter months, perfect for chilly evenings.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is truly a comforting and satisfying dish that combines creamy richness with a burst of freshness from the broccoli. It’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day or as a wholesome side at dinner. I encourage you to try making it yourself; you’ll be amazed at how simple and delicious it is!

Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, dreamy bowl of goodness. Packed with wholesome ingredients and cheesy richness, it's the perfect easy weeknight dinner that will warm your soul. Make it tonight for a deliciously satisfying meal!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Soups

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• ½ medium Yellow Onion finely minced
• 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
• 3 cups Low-Sodium Broth vegetable or chicken stock
• 1 cup Shredded Carrots
• 3 cups Chopped Fresh Broccoli Florets
• ½ teaspoon Seasoned Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Grated Nutmeg optional
• 1½ cups Half and Half or one 12-ounce can of evaporated milk
• 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese freshly grated
• ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Equipment

• Skillet
• Large Pot
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board

Method

 

1. Over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a heavy-bottomed soup pot. Once the butter has melted, add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion begins to soften and become translucent.
2. Once the onion has softened, sprinkle 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour over the onions and butter and whisk together to form a thick paste or a roux. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the flour to toast lightly.
3. Slowly add the 3 cups low-sodium broth, ½ cup at a time, whisking well to incorporate. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil, whisking often.
4. Once lightly boiling, add in 1 cup shredded carrots, 3 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets, ½ teaspoon seasoned salt, and ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and let cook for about 10 minutes, or until broccoli is cooked through.
5. Once the broccoli is tender, remove the lid, and whisk in 1½ cups half and half, 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese. Allow the soup to cook over low heat for an additional 2-5 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted, whisking constantly.
6. Remove the soup from the heat, taste, and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm.

Notes

• Evaporated Milk: This will keep the soup lower in fat and calories but still deliver a decadent taste and creamy texture unlike regular milk.
• For Frozen Broccoli Florets: Steam the broccoli florets according to package directions and stir into the soup right before serving.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 Gluten-Free Flour Blend in place of traditional flour and ensure your broth is gluten-free as well.
• Cheese: Be sure to freshly grate the cheese yourself for this soup instead of using pre-grated cheese.
• Storage: Store leftover Broccoli Cheese Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator and warm in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until warmed through.

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Meet Delilah Moon

We eat with our eyes first, and I strive to capture the energy of our food through photography. I am deeply involved in the cooking process, styling our dishes to show you exactly how appetizing they can be. I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative and confident in your own kitchen.