Creamy, Dreamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup Recipes: 3 Ways to Indulge
Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of cheesy broccoli soup? Look no further! This blog post will guide you through three delicious variations, each packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying weeknight meal. We'll cover everything from classic cheesy broccoli soup to gourmet versions that will impress even the most discerning palate. Get ready to elevate your soup game!
Recipe 1: The Classic Cheesy Broccoli Soup
This recipe focuses on simplicity and that irresistible cheesy broccoli flavor. It's quick, easy, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli and broth: Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Caution: Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid burns.
- Stir in cheese and cream: Return the soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of paprika, or a swirl of cream.
Recipe 2: Gourmet Cheesy Broccoli Soup with Roasted Garlic and Gruyère
This recipe takes the classic to the next level with roasted garlic and the nutty, complex flavor of Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
- 1 head of garlic, top sliced off
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Roast the garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the top of the garlic head with olive oil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and caramelized. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened. Stir in the roasted garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add broccoli and broth: Add the broccoli florets and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, until broccoli is tender.
- Blend the soup: Blend the soup until smooth.
- Stir in cheese and cream: Return the soup to the pot. Stir in heavy cream and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme sprigs (optional).
Recipe 3: Spicy Cheesy Broccoli Soup with a Kick
Add some heat to your cheesy broccoli soup with this spicy variation!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, tortilla chips
Instructions:
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened. Add the garlic and jalapeño and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli and broth: Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, until broccoli is tender.
- Blend the soup: Blend the soup until smooth.
- Stir in cheese and milk: Return the soup to the pot. Stir in milk, Monterey Jack cheese, and pepper jack cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve hot, topped with sour cream and tortilla chips (optional).
No matter which recipe you choose, you're guaranteed a delicious and satisfying bowl of cheesy broccoli soup. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us on social media! Happy cooking!
