Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Introduction
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and creamy dish that brings warmth to any meal. Packed with nutritious broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, it’s a perfect choice for chilly days or when you want a quick and satisfying meal. This soup is not only delicious but also simple to make, making it an ideal recipe for anyone looking to add a tasty dish to their repertoire.
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to make Broccoli Cheddar Soup. First, it’s healthy and filled with vitamins from the broccoli and calcium from the cheese. Second, it’s a great way to sneak in veggies, especially for those who are not fond of them. Lastly, this soup is quick to prepare and can be easily customized. You can enjoy it as a main dish or a side, making it versatile for any occasion.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup is quite simple and requires just a few steps.
Ingredients
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until soft.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add the vegetable broth, stirring continuously.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and add the broccoli florets.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Reduce heat and stir in the milk and cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup warm, directly from the pot. It goes well with crusty bread or a light salad on the side. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional cheddar cheese or croutons on top before serving.
How to Store Broccoli Cheddar Soup
If you have leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove until warm.
Tips to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- For a smoother texture, you can blend the soup after cooking.
- Use fresh broccoli for the best taste, but frozen broccoli works well too.
- Feel free to add garlic or your favorite spices to enhance the flavor.
Variation
You can easily change this recipe up by adding other vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or even cooked chicken for extra protein. For a healthier option, substitute the cheddar cheese with a lower-fat cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli is a great substitute and can save time. Just make sure to thaw it before adding to the soup.
Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: To thicken the soup, you can add more flour or blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
Q: Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
A: Absolutely! You can use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and dairy-free cheese to make it vegan-friendly.
Enjoy your warm bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup! It’s a simple and satisfying way to enjoy a healthy meal.
