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How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by prepping the vegetables for the soup.
- If you’re using fresh broccoli, chop the broccoli into small florets. You can also use the stalks (peeled and chopped) to minimize waste.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. These will form the aromatic base of the soup.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
To start building the flavor base, sauté the onion and garlic.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
3. Cook the Broccoli
Now it’s time to cook the broccoli, which will give the soup its vibrant green color and nutritious boost.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
4. Blend the Soup (Optional)
For a creamier texture, you can blend part or all of the soup.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Alternatively, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot. For a chunkier soup, skip this step.
5. Add the Creaminess
To make the soup rich and velvety, add the dairy.
- Stir in the whole milk (or half-and-half) and let it heat through.
- Add the salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg, stirring to combine. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
6. Melt the Cheese
Now for the best part—adding the cheese!
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Stir constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
- If the soup is too thick, you can add a little extra broth or milk to thin it to your preferred consistency.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup is fully blended and cheesy, it’s time to serve!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, croutons, or freshly ground black pepper, if desired.
- For an extra touch, top the soup with chopped fresh parsley or chives for added color and freshness.
Tips for Making the Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Use Fresh Cheese: For the best meltability and flavor, always use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
- Customize with Add-ins: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon for extra protein and flavor. You can also throw in other vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or bell peppers.
- Make It Dairy-Free: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or a plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Blend for Texture: If you like a creamy, smooth soup, blend all or part of the soup. For a chunkier version, skip the blending step and leave the broccoli as-is.
- Control the Spice: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the soup or add a dash of cayenne pepper to give it a kick.
Why Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a Favorite
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a timeless dish that combines comfort and nutrition in a single bowl. The creamy base, paired with the sharp cheddar flavor and tender broccoli, is a perfect balance of savory richness and fresh vegetables. Whether you enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or as a standalone meal, this soup has everything you need for a comforting dining experience.
It’s a great option for families, easy enough to prepare on a busy weeknight, but impressive enough to serve at a gathering. The fact that it’s full of healthy broccoli makes it a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a cozy meal while sneaking in some veggies.
Next time you need a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing, turn to Broccoli Cheddar Soup—you won’t regret it!
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