Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A Simple, Crowd-Pleasing Recipe
Are you looking for a comforting and flavorful soup recipe that's perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch? Look no further! This creamy broccoli cheddar soup recipe is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum deliciousness. It's sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields about 6 servings of creamy goodness. Adjust the quantities as needed depending on the size of your crowd.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a healthy base for sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds depth of flavor to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory notes.
- 4 cups broccoli florets: The star of the show! Choose fresh, vibrant broccoli for the best taste.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Provides the liquid base for the soup. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1 cup milk (or cream for extra richness): Adds creaminess and richness to the soup. Heavy cream works particularly well.
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The key ingredient for that irresistible cheddar flavor! A good quality cheese makes a big difference.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Optional garnishes: A sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese, chopped chives, or a dollop of sour cream elevates the presentation.
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these easy steps to create your perfect bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender-crisp.
Step 3: Simmer and Blend
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is very tender.
- Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Caution: Be mindful of hot liquids when blending.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Season
- Return the blended soup to the pot.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's melted and completely incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish as desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Bowl
- For a thicker soup: Use less broth or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken the soup.
- Add some spice: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce adds a nice kick.
- Boost the flavor: Add a bay leaf while simmering for a deeper, richer flavor. Remove before blending.
- Make it cheesy: Don't be shy with the cheese! Use a blend of cheddar cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
- Add protein: Cooked chicken, bacon bits, or roasted sausage add protein and extra flavor.
This creamy broccoli cheddar soup recipe is incredibly versatile and adaptable to your preferences. Experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create your own unique version. Enjoy!
