Name: Broccoli Cheddar Comfort Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 3 cups vegetable broth; 4 cups frozen broccoli; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

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Broccoli Cheddar Comfort Soup is the perfect hug in a bowl—a classic dish that combines the earthy flavors of broccoli with the creamy goodness of cheddar cheese. This soup is not only easy to make but also brings a sense of warmth, making it ideal for chilly days or when you’re in need of some cozy comfort food. With its rich, velvety texture and scrumptious taste, it’s sure to please everyone in the family. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 396
Protein: 14g per serving
Carbohydrates: 25g per serving
Fat: 30g per serving
Fiber: 3g per serving
Sugar: 4g per serving
Sodium: 710mg per serving

Why Make This Broccoli Cheddar Comfort Soup

There are plenty of reasons to whip up a batch of Broccoli Cheddar Comfort Soup. Not only does it come together in just 30 minutes, but it also makes use of simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. This soup is wonderfully creamy with a hint of nuttiness from the cheddar and a vibrant green color from the broccoli, making it visually appealing as well. Whether you are planning a family dinner, a dinner party, or just a cozy night in, this soup is a stellar choice that never fails to impress.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Comfort Soup

Step 1: Preparation

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, approximately 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and continue cooking for 1 minute.

Step 2: Mixing

Sprinkle the flour over the butter and vegetables, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to form a roux.

Step 3: Cooking

Slowly whisk in the whole milk and vegetable broth until the mixture is smooth. Add frozen broccoli, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Finishing

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to the desired consistency, or blend in batches in a countertop blender and return to the pot. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until smooth and fully melted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese or cracked black pepper if preferred.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Comfort Soup

Serve this delightful soup in bowls, and consider offering crusty bread or homemade croutons on the side for a satisfying crunch. Fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley also add a lovely touch. This soup makes a perfect starter for any meal or stands beautifully on its own for a light lunch or dinner.

How to Store Broccoli Cheddar Comfort Soup

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.

Expert Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Comfort Soup

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for whole milk or use low-fat cheese options.
Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.
If you want more texture, add in some chopped carrots or potatoes along with the broccoli during the cooking process.
Be sure to add the cheese off the heat to avoid clumping.
Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste; a little more nutmeg can add a lovely depth.

Delicious Variations

Add Protein: Include shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked bacon for extra substance.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your soup a kick.
Vegetarian Version: Opt for vegetable broth and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a dairy-free alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli works well! You’ll need about 4 cups, and you may want to cook it a bit longer until tender.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for the roux.
How can I thicken the soup more?
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can puree more of the soup until smooth or add a bit more flour in the roux step, making sure to cook it well.
Does it freeze well?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just remember to cool it completely before placing it in airtight containers in the freezer.
What can I serve with this soup?
Grilled cheese sandwiches, a fresh garden salad, or some light crackers all pair wonderfully with Broccoli Cheddar Comfort Soup.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about Broccoli Cheddar Comfort Soup that warms both the belly and the heart. It’s a delightful meal that celebrates simple ingredients while providing comfort and satisfaction. With quick prep and straightforward cooking, this is a recipe you’ll want to make time and again. We hope you give it a try and enjoy every bite of this cozy, cheesy goodness!