Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something warm and cheesy. This version incorporates a spicy twist with Flamin’ Jack 5 Alarm Cheese, which adds a unique kick to the classic soup. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this soup is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 4 tablespoons minced garlic
- 3 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 cups Flamin’ Jack 5 Alarm Cheese (bought at Sam’s Club)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Cook the Garlic:
- In a large pot, sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Add the Broth and Broccoli:
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the broccoli florets.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Blend the Soup:
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only a portion of the soup and leave some broccoli pieces whole.
- Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Add the Cream:
- Stir in the heavy whipping cream and bring the soup back to a simmer.
- Add the Cheese:
- Gradually add the Flamin’ Jack 5 Alarm Cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with additional cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick, if desired.
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Substitution: If you can’t find Flamin’ Jack 5 Alarm Cheese, you can use a combination of regular cheddar cheese and a spicy cheese like pepper jack.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian.
- Thicker Soup: For a thicker soup, add a tablespoon of flour to the garlic after sautéing and before adding the broth. Cook the flour for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Add-Ins: Enhance the flavor by adding diced onions or carrots along with the garlic. Sauté them until soft before adding the broth and broccoli.
- Crouton Topping: Serve the soup with homemade croutons for added texture and crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw it slightly before adding to the soup and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
Q: What can I serve with broccoli cheddar soup? A: This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Q: How can I make the soup less spicy? A: Reduce the amount of Flamin’ Jack 5 Alarm Cheese and replace it with mild cheddar or add more cream to mellow the spiciness.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? A: Yes, you can use whole milk for a lighter version, but the soup will be less rich and creamy.
Q: What if I don’t have an immersion blender? A: You can use a regular blender. Blend the soup in batches, being careful not to overfill the blender to avoid splattering.
Q: Can I add meat to this soup? A: Yes, you can add cooked, shredded chicken or crispy bacon bits for extra protein and flavor.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup with a spicy twist is a delicious and comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a starter, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with every spoonful!
