This Broccoli Cheese Soup is a warm and cheesy hug in a bowl! Packed with fresh broccoli and gooey cheese, it’s comfort food at its best.
I love making this soup on chilly days. It’s super easy to whip up, and who can resist dunking a crusty bread in that cheesy goodness? Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and texture. Frozen broccoli works too; just reduce cooking time by a few minutes. I prefer using organic when possible for better taste!
Onion: A medium onion adds depth. If you’re onion-averse, you can use leeks or shallots for a milder flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a powerhouse of flavor! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but the taste won’t be quite the same.
Broth: I usually opt for vegetable broth for a lighter taste, but chicken broth can add a nice richness. Homemade broth is fantastic if you have it on hand.
Cream: For a lighter version, use milk or unsweetened almond milk. Just keep in mind it might be less creamy.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar shines in this recipe! You can swap in Gruyère or Monterey Jack if you want something different. Vegan cheese can work if you’re going dairy-free.
How do I create a really great roux?
The roux is essential for thickening the soup and adding richness. Here’s how to nail it:
- Melt butter in the pot over medium heat. You want it melted but not browned.
- Add the chopped onions and cook them until they’re soft and translucent—about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the flour evenly over the mixture, stirring constantly. Keep cooking for about 2-3 minutes until it’s a light golden color.
- This step takes time but it’s crucial—don’t rush! It helps get rid of the raw flour taste and gives a nice base for your soup.
By following these tips, you’ll have a deliciously creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup that warms the heart! Enjoy each cozy spoonful!
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes before you can dig into this creamy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent and soft, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it’s fragrant—you’ll love the smell!
2. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes to form a roux. You want the mixture to turn a light golden color and lose that raw flour taste.
3. Add the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth. Be careful to avoid any lumps! Bring this to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, which should take about 5 minutes. It’s getting exciting!
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot. Cover and let everything cook for about 10-12 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still a lovely bright green color.
5. Stir in the Cream:
Reduce the heat to low, and now it’s time to stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Heat this gently—don’t let it boil!
6. Add the Cheese:
Slowly add in the shredded cheddar cheese in batches, stirring constantly until it’s completely melted and the soup is smooth. Cheesy goodness awaits!
7. Season & Adjust:
Now, season your soup with salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg if you’re using it. Taste your soup and adjust the seasonings as needed—get it just how you like it.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
If you’d like, leave some broccoli florets whole to garnish your serving bowls. Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar cheese or a few broccoli florets on top. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crackers!
Enjoy every spoonful of your cozy Broccoli Cheese Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen broccoli, just reduce the cooking time to about 5-7 minutes, as it will cook faster than fresh broccoli. You’ll still get all that delicious flavor!
How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
For a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with a can of full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Use a dairy-free cheese blend to maintain the cheesy flavor. Just make sure to check the consistency as you go.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the soup up to the cheese addition, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently over medium heat and add the cheese just before serving to keep it creamy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
