Truly the BEST Broccoli Cheese Soup! This Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is perfectly cheesy, hearty, rich, and creamy. It’s super easy to make, making it a perfect choice for cozy dinners or gatherings. Pair it with fresh bread for an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: This recipe can be made in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates a rich flavor that will satisfy your cheese cravings.
- Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or as a side dish, this soup fits well into any meal plan.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh broccoli, this soup is a great way to add nutrition to your diet without sacrificing taste.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this creamy delight, making it a hit for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into our delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having the right equipment ensures your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Whisk: This tool helps blend the ingredients smoothly while preventing lumps in your soup.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
Ingredients
To make this delightful Broccoli Cheese Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
Base Ingredients
- 6 Tbsp butter, (cut into 1 Tbsp pieces)
- 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 large clove garlic, (finely minced)
- 1/4 cup + 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 1/4 cups low-fat milk, (then more to thin if desired)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups (packed) finely chopped fresh broccoli florets
- 10 oz (2 1/2 cups) sharp cheddar cheese (or extra sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for serving)
- 1 oz (1/3 cup) finely shredded Parmesan cheese
Seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, (to taste)
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in onions and cook, stirring frequently until nearly soft, about 4 – 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Flour
Add in garlic and flour. Cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 3: Incorporate Milk and Broth
While whisking continuously, slowly pour in milk followed by the chicken broth. Stir in the broccoli florets.
Step 4: Thicken the Mixture
Cook while stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken. Reduce heat to low, cooking until broccoli is tender, about 6 – 8 minutes.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheeses
Remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream followed by cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with additional cheddar on top if desired. Enjoy your delicious bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup!
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Serving Broccoli Cheese Soup is a delightful experience that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you want a cozy dinner or a simple lunch, this soup pairs beautifully with various accompaniments.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Garlic Bread – The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the cheesy richness of the soup.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft and fluffy rolls are ideal for soaking up every drop of this delicious soup.
Topped with Extra Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar – Adding more sharp cheddar cheese on top enhances the cheesy flavor.
- Parmesan Sprinkles – A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a nutty touch that balances the dish.
With a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast.
- Garden Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette can brighten up the meal.
How to Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Perfecting your Broccoli Cheese Soup is easy with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish to restaurant quality.
- Use Fresh Broccoli – Freshly chopped broccoli florets contribute to better texture and flavor compared to frozen.
- Choose Quality Cheese – Go for high-quality sharp cheddar for the best taste; it melts beautifully and adds richness.
- Adjust Thickness – If you prefer thinner soup, add more milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season Well – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Pairing sides with your Broccoli Cheese Soup can turn it into a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich – The classic pairing of gooey grilled cheese makes for a comforting combo.
- Quiche Lorraine – This savory pie brings eggs and cheese together, making it a delightful match.
- Stuffed Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with rice and beans add nutrition and flavor balance.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies make for a healthy and tasty side.
- Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy soup.
- Pasta Salad – Cold pasta salad with fresh veggies provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
- Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins complement the savory flavors of the soup nicely.
- Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness, balancing out the rich soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Broccoli Cheese Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can impact the final dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the onion and garlic: These ingredients add depth and flavor. Always sauté them until soft to enhance the soup’s richness.
- Not whisking in the flour properly: This can cause lumps. Make sure to stir constantly when adding flour to create a smooth base.
- Using low-quality cheese: The type of cheese matters. Opt for sharp or extra sharp cheddar for a more flavorful soup.
- Overcooking the broccoli: This leads to mushy florets. Cook just until tender to maintain some texture and bright color.
- Neglecting seasoning: Proper seasoning elevates the dish. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
- Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.
How can I make this soup healthier?
You can use low-fat milk and reduce cheese quantities while increasing broccoli content for a lighter version.
What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
Feel free to experiment with Gruyere, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for added flavor!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator and flavors often improve after a day.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is both comforting and delicious, perfect for chilly evenings. It offers great versatility; feel free to customize by adding spices or using different types of cheese. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Broccoli Cheese Soup
Indulge in the ultimate comfort of Broccoli Cheese Soup, a dish that’s as rich and creamy as it is nourishing. This delicious recipe combines fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheese to create a delightful symphony of flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a quiet night at home, this easy-to-follow recipe ensures you can whip up a bowl of velvety goodness in just 25 minutes. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal that the whole family will adore.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 Tbsp butter
- 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 large clove garlic, minced
- 3 1/4 cups low-fat milk
- 1 (14.5 oz) can low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 cups finely chopped fresh broccoli florets
- 10 oz sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 oz finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and sauté onions until soft (about 4-5 minutes). Add garlic and flour; cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk followed by chicken broth and chopped broccoli. Cook until thickened and broccoli is tender (6-8 minutes).
- Remove from heat, stir in heavy cream, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm with additional cheese on top if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
