Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this soup comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for busy schedules.

• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a hit with both kids and adults, and it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

• Versatile: Easily adaptable to suit dietary preferences or to include additional ingredients like proteins or extra vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 4 cups broccoli florets

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup heavy cream

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent, approximately 5 minutes.

2. Add Broth and Broccoli: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the broccoli is tender, about 15–20 minutes.

3. Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth. If an immersion blender isn’t available, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, blending until smooth.

4. Incorporate Cheese and Cream: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is well combined.

5. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or croutons if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 4 servings

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken or ham to make the soup more filling.

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or milk to reach the desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. There’s no need to thaw it before adding it to the pot; simply adjust the cooking time as needed until the broccoli is tender.

2. What type of cheese works best for this soup?

Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its robust flavor and smooth melting properties.

3. How can I make this soup lighter?

To reduce the fat content, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. Note that this may result in a less creamy texture.

4. Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter, dairy-free cheese, and a non-dairy milk alternative like coconut or almond milk. Be aware that these substitutions will alter the flavor and texture.

5. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

6. How can I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Ensure the soup is not boiling when adding the cheese, as high heat can cause it to separate. Add the cheese gradually, stirring continuously until fully melted.

7. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely. Carrots, celery, or cauliflower can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Sauté them with the onions and garlic at the beginning.

8. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half, whole milk, or non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk can be used, keeping in mind that this will affect the soup’s creaminess.

9. Is it necessary to blend the soup?

Blending creates a smooth, creamy texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step or blend only a portion of the soup.

10. How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

If the soup is thinner than desired, let it simmer uncovered until it reaches the preferred consistency. Alternatively, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the soup and cook until thickened.

Conclusion

This Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy. Its simplicity and versatility make it a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a quick meal or a comforting treat, this soup is bound to become a favorite.

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