This creamy broccoli cheese soup is a hug in a bowl! Full of tender broccoli and melted cheese, it’s both warming and yummy. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a little comfort.
You can’t go wrong with cheese, right? I love pairing it with crusty bread for dipping. It really makes every spoonful even better. Who else enjoys a cheesy masterpiece like this? 🥦🧀
Making this soup is super easy! Just throw everything in a pot, let it simmer, and enjoy. It’s a quick way to warm up your tummy and your heart!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are essential for flavor and texture. If you’re short on fresh broccoli, frozen florets work just as well! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a robust flavor. For a twist, you can use Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of your favorites. Just shred them fresh for the best melt.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt in the soup. If you need a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or a vegan butter substitute.
Broth: Chicken broth adds great depth, but vegetable broth is a perfect substitute for a vegetarian option. Homemade broth can also enhance the flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Soup Without Clumps?
Creating a smooth and creamy texture is key! Start by making a roux: melt butter, then stir in flour until it’s lightly golden. This step helps thicken your soup without any clumps.
- Cook the roux for a few minutes to develop flavor.
- Gradually add the chicken broth while whisking continuously.
- Make sure the broth is heated to prevent lumps from forming.
Finally, when adding cheese, remove the pot from the heat to keep it from becoming grainy. Stir until fully melted for that perfect creamy consistency!
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg
For Serving:
- Optional: crusty bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious soup takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and an additional 25 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes. You’ll spend a little time chopping and cooking, but the delicious aroma in your kitchen will be worth every second!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
2. Creating the Roux:
Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes. This will help thicken the soup and give it a lovely creamy texture. Be sure to cook the roux until it’s a light golden color to enhance the flavor.
3. Adding the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while making sure to dissolve any lumps from the flour. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking for about 5 minutes until it slightly thickens. Keep stirring to avoid any sticking!
4. Cooking the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets to the pot and let them simmer until they are tender but still bright green, about 8-10 minutes. This softens the broccoli perfectly while keeping some vibrant color.
5. Creamy Base:
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the milk and heavy cream. Heat the soup gently without bringing it to a boil—this will make it beautifully creamy!
6. Melting the Cheese:
Remove the pot from heat, and slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until it’s fully melted and smooth. This is where the magic happens!
7. Seasoning:
Season your soup with salt, pepper, and if you like, a pinch of nutmeg for an extra depth of flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
8. Serving:
Serve your broccoli cheese soup warm in bowls, garnished with extra cheese or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy broccoli soup—a perfect comfort food for any day!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just thaw it beforehand, and you may need to adjust the cooking time. It will typically simmer quicker than fresh broccoli, so keep an eye on it!
How Can I Adjust the Thickness of the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mash some of the broccoli with a potato masher or immersion blender to thicken while keeping some chunks. If it’s too thick, simply add more milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk or a similar non-dairy alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese for a creamy texture. Just be aware that the flavor and consistency may vary slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up, as it may thicken while sitting.
