Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness? Look no further than homemade broccoli cheddar soup! This classic recipe is surprisingly easy to make and offers a fantastic way to sneak in your veggies. This guide will walk you through creating a creamy, dreamy broccoli cheddar soup that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients You'll Need:
To make this amazing soup, you'll need these simple ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for a savory kick.
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets: The star of the show!
- 4 cups chicken broth: Provides the soup's base. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess): Adds richness and creaminess.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The key to that classic cheddar flavor. Experiment with different types of cheddar for varied taste profiles!
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors. Adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice. Again, adjust to your preference.
- Optional additions: Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg for warmth, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist! Crispy bacon bits or croutons make fantastic toppings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to achieve broccoli cheddar soup perfection:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender-crisp.
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Simmer in broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
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Blend for creaminess (optional): For a super-smooth soup, carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
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Stir in cheese and milk: Return the soup to the pot (if you blended it). Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like bacon bits, croutons, or a swirl of cream.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
- Don't overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli becomes mushy. Aim for tender-crisp florets.
- Use good quality cheese: The quality of your cheese significantly impacts the flavor of your soup.
- Adjust the seasonings: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
- Make it your own: Experiment with different cheeses, spices, or toppings to create your signature broccoli cheddar soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Q: What can I use as a substitute for chicken broth?
A: Vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian option.
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy your delicious homemade broccoli cheddar soup! Remember to share your culinary creations with us!
