Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Creamy, Comforting, and Perfect for Any Day 🥦🧀

The following items are required to prepare this tasty soup:

Four cups of chopped broccoli—fresh is ideal, but frozen can do if you're short on time.

Shredded cheddar cheese, 2 cups: For the most flavorful result, use sharp cheddar.

Four tablespoons of butter: Makes the soup base richer.

The addition of one tiny chopped onion deepens the savory flavor of the soup.

Two carrots, chopped or shredded: for color and sweetness.

Adds a burst of flavor with two minced cloves of garlic.

A quarter cup of all-purpose flour will thicken the soup to the ideal consistency.

The savory base of the soup: 4 cups of broth, made from chicken or vegetables.

Two cups of whole milk: for a velvety texture.

Add salt and pepper according to your preference.

Toss in a sprinkle of nutmeg for an optional touch of mild warmth.

Extras You Can Add:

Bits of bacon

Shredded cheese that is extra

Black pepper, just cracked, implements What You'll Owe

Dutch oven or large saucepan: For the soup's cooking.

Use a whisk to make a creamy, silky mixture.

Optional: For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender.

Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe

1. Saute the Celery and Onions

Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. For about 5 minutes, or until softened and aromatic, sauté the onion, garlic, and carrots.

2. Develop the Roux

To make a paste, slowly add the flour to the sautéed veggies while stirring continuously. Let it cook for a minute or two to get rid of the raw flour flavor.

3. Mix in the Fluids

Be careful not to leave any lumps in the roux as you slowly whisk in the milk and broth. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Saute the Broccoli

Simmer the chopped broccoli for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until it reaches tenderness.

5. Combine, if desired

Puree some or all of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier consistency. Leave this part out if you want a chunkier consistency.

Sixth, Top with Cheese

Take the saucepan off the heat and slowly incorporate the crumbled cheddar cheese until it melts and becomes smooth. To keep the soup from curdling, do not boil it after adding the cheese.

Serve after seasoning.

Season to taste with salt, pepper, and, if desired, a touch of nutmeg. Top with anything you choose and enjoy while it's hot!

Some Recommended Side Dishes with Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Perfect accompaniments for this soup include:

Sourdough or a warm baguette, two types of crusty bread, are ideal for dipping.

To add a garlicky touch, try these garlic breadsticks.

As a refreshing counterpoint to the rich soup, a crisp green salad is the perfect accompaniment.

Advice on Making the Finest Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Make Cheese Shreds at Home: It's not uncommon for pre-shredded cheese to include chemicals that make it less melt-y.

Keep the heat low and consistent; otherwise, the milk and cheese may separate due to the high heat.

Use Fresh Broccoli: Although frozen broccoli may do, the taste and texture will be much improved with fresh broccoli.

Get the Texture You Want: Puree the soup to a silky consistency or add texture by leaving some broccoli bits in.

Heat and Storage

For up to four days in the fridge, seal in an airtight container.

Storage in the freezer: up to three months. Reheating may cause a little texture change, so keep that in mind.

Reheat by heating in a microwave on a low setting while stirring periodically or by heating on a stovetop over low heat.

Answers to Common Questions

Would other kinds of cheese work?

Of course! Although cheddar is the most traditional, other cheeses such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a combination of the two may provide a special touch.

Am I able to cook this soup without gluten?

Sure thing. For a thickening agent, try cornstarch