why make this recipe
Broccoli and Cheese Soup is a comforting and warm dish perfect for any time of the year. It combines the goodness of fresh broccoli with the deliciousness of rich cheeses, making it a favorite for many. This soup is not just tasty; it’s also nutritious, as broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s a great choice for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, and it caters to both kids and adults alike!
how to make Broccoli and Cheese Soup
Ingredients:
- 8 tablespoons salted sweet cream butter
- 1 cup finely chopped sweet yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 1/2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 1/2 cups fresh shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese, plus 1/4 cup for optional garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
Directions:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the flour, cooking for a couple of minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens.
- Add the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring until combined.
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and add in the broccoli florets. Cook until the broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the cheddar and parmesan cheeses until they melt smoothly into the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with extra cheese on top if desired.
how to serve Broccoli and Cheese Soup
Serve the soup hot, ideally in a bowl with some crusty bread or crackers on the side. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional cheddar cheese on top right before serving. This adds a lovely visual appeal and enhances the cheesy flavor!
how to store Broccoli and Cheese Soup
To store leftover broccoli and cheese soup, let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Broccoli and Cheese Soup
- Make sure to chop the broccoli florets into small, even pieces for quick cooking.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the soup after adding the broccoli.
- For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
- You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
variation
You can add other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for a twist. For a protein boost, cooked chicken or bacon bits can be mixed in too.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the soup.
2. Is this soup gluten-free?
No, this recipe contains flour. You can use gluten-free flour as a substitute to make it gluten-free.
3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
You can substitute the milk and cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese.