Broccoli cheese soup is a classic comfort food beloved for its creamy texture and rich, cheesy flavor. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or lazy weekends when you crave something warm and satisfying. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up a batch of homemade broccoli cheese soup that’s sure to warm both body and soul.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: extra cheese, croutons, chopped parsley
Instructions:
- Cook Broccoli: In a pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the chopped broccoli florets and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender. Once cooked, remove the broccoli from the pot and set aside, reserving the broth for later use.
- Make Roux: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to lightly brown.
- Add Liquid: Gradually pour in the reserved broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Once the broth has been incorporated, pour in the heavy cream or milk, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-low heat, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the soup.
- Season: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed. Keep in mind that the cheese will add saltiness to the soup, so start with a small amount of salt and adjust accordingly.
- Add Broccoli: Once the soup has reached your desired consistency, stir in the cooked broccoli florets, allowing them to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the creamy broccoli cheese soup into bowls and garnish with extra grated cheese, croutons, or chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Texture Variation: For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup before adding the broccoli florets. This will create a creamier texture while still maintaining some chunks of broccoli for added texture.
- Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup for extra flavor and nutrients. Carrots, cauliflower, or spinach are great additions that complement the broccoli and cheese beautifully.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a subtle kick of heat. This adds another dimension of flavor to the creamy base without overpowering the cheesy goodness.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: To make this soup keto-friendly, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour as a thickening agent. Replace the milk or heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk to reduce the carb content. Additionally, ensure that the chicken or vegetable broth is low in carbs or make your own keto-friendly broth at home.
- Low-Carb: For a lower-carb version of this soup, simply reduce the amount of onion used and omit the flour altogether. The cheese and heavy cream will still provide richness and thickness to the soup without the need for additional thickeners. You can also increase the amount of broccoli to add bulk and fiber to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? A: Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh broccoli in this recipe. Simply thaw the broccoli before adding it to the soup, or cook it according to the package instructions before incorporating it into the soup.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze broccoli cheese soup? A: While this soup can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing due to the dairy content. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with broccoli cheese soup? A: Broccoli cheese soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Creamy broccoli cheese soup is a timeless favorite that never fails to warm the soul. With its velvety texture, rich cheese flavor, and tender broccoli florets, this soup is a true comfort food classic. Whether enjoyed as a cozy weeknight dinner or served at a gathering with friends and family, broccoli cheese soup is sure to delight everyone at the table. Give this recipe a try and savor the comforting goodness with every spoonful!
