Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Warm up your kitchen with the comforting aromas of this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup! Perfect for chilly days or when you need a wholesome meal, this soup is packed with tender broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, all enveloped in a creamy broth. It’s an easy recipe that brings the classic flavors of broccoli and cheese together in one delicious bowl.

Nutritional Benefits

• Broccoli: A powerhouse of vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants, broccoli contributes to your overall health.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a good source of calcium and protein, making this soup not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Whole Milk: Adds creaminess while providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients 📋

For the Soup:

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ onion, chopped
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian option)
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 2½ cups broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Additional shredded cheddar cheese
• Toasted sliced baguette or croutons

Instructions 🥣

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Cook the Onion: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sweat for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Base

3. Whisk in the Flour: Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Add the Chicken Stock: Slowly stir in the chicken stock, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

5. Incorporate Celery and Broccoli: Add the finely diced celery and chopped broccoli to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
6. Simmer the Soup: Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Texture

7. Add Milk: Stir in the whole milk and continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. The soup should thicken enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon.

Step 5: Melt the Cheddar

8. Incorporate Cheddar Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, adding it in small handfuls. Wait for each addition to melt before adding more, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
9. Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve

10. Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each serving with more shredded cheddar cheese. Serve alongside toasted slices of baguette or croutons for an added crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Bread: Enjoy this soup with warm, crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Customize Your Bowl: Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or fresh herbs like parsley for a burst of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The combination of tender broccoli and rich, gooey cheddar creates a comforting dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or as a starter, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6-8 bowls

Enjoy the heartwarming flavors of this classic soup that’s perfect for any day of the week!