Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A Comforting Classic

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of broccoli cheddar soup to cozy up with on a chilly day. This rich, velvety soup combines the earthy flavor of broccoli with the smoothness of cheddar cheese, making it a comforting, indulgent meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you serve it with a crusty piece of bread or a side salad, this soup is a classic favorite for all ages.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups half-and-half (or whole milk for a lighter version)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (more for garnish)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and chopped carrot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. You can test it by poking a fork into the broccoli—if it easily pierces, it’s ready.

Step 3: Make the Roux

While the broccoli is cooking, heat the half-and-half in a separate saucepan over low heat, just to warm it up. In a small bowl, mix the flour with a little bit of the warm half-and-half to create a smooth paste, then stir the paste into the soup pot. This will help thicken the soup.

Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional)

If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup right in the pot until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer about half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot. If you like a chunkier soup, simply skip this step.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the soup has reached your desired consistency, gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Add a little at a time, stirring constantly to ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the soup. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is creamy.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Once the soup is seasoned to your liking, serve it hot with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for garnish.

Tips and Variations:

Make It Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup.
Add Protein: For extra protein, try adding cooked chicken or bacon bits. The addition of these will add flavor and texture.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk (like almond milk or coconut milk) to make this soup vegan-friendly.
More Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like cauliflower or zucchini for extra nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic in Step 1.
Spice it Up: For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or more cayenne pepper to the soup.

Why This Recipe Works:

Comfort Food at Its Best: The rich, creamy texture paired with the sharp, tangy cheddar cheese makes this soup a true comfort food.
Quick and Easy: With a prep time of only about 15 minutes and cooking time under 30 minutes, you can make this hearty soup in no time.
Customizable: It’s easy to tweak the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Nutritional Benefits:

Broccoli is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making this soup a nutritious option. The cheese adds protein and calcium, while the carrots contribute beta-carotene. The use of half-and-half gives the soup a rich texture, but you can easily lighten it up by substituting it with milk or a non-dairy alternative.

Conclusion:

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a wholesome, comforting meal that’s perfect for colder months or whenever you need a little cozy indulgence. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s easy to see why this recipe has been a long-time favorite. Whether you enjoy it with bread, crackers, or just by itself, this creamy, cheesy soup will warm your soul and satisfy your hunger.