Are you craving a soul-warming, creamy soup that combines the hearty goodness of broccoli with the irresistible richness of cheddar cheese? Look no further! This incredible Broccoli Cheddar Soup is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a velvety, cheesy delight that's not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will have everyone at your dinner table begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a soup enthusiast, this recipe is your ticket to comfort food paradise!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat, ensuring it coats the bottom of the pan evenly.
- Add chopped onions to the melted butter and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Introduce minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add broccoli florets to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Pour chicken broth into the pot, ensuring the broccoli is mostly covered by the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Using an immersion blender or standard blender, partially puree the soup, leaving some broccoli chunks for texture.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in milk, being careful not to let the mixture boil.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until cheese is completely melted and incorporated.
- Season with salt and black pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs.
Tips
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and nutrition. Frozen can work in a pinch, but fresh florets make a significant difference.
- Grate your own cheddar cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties. Fresh-grated cheese melts more smoothly and provides a superior taste.
- Control the soup's consistency by adjusting the blending. For a chunkier soup, blend less; for a smoother texture, blend more.
- Don't let the soup boil after adding milk and cheese to prevent curdling. Low and slow is the key to a silky-smooth soup.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or using sharp cheddar for a more intense cheese profile.
- Garnish with crispy bacon bits, croutons, or additional cheese to elevate the presentation and add exciting texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 55mg
