Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up with this delightful Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup, perfect for chilly days. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with nutritious broccoli, it's a bowl of pure comfort.
This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl. The combination of fresh broccoli, rich cheddar cheese, and a creamy base makes it a family favorite.
Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup is a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a hearty dish. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that warms the soul
- Loaded with nutrients from fresh broccoli
- Cheesy goodness that kids and adults adore
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade soup on a chilly day. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as you sauté onions and garlic creates an inviting atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home. This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup not only warms your body but also nurtures your soul. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it is the perfect remedy for a dreary day.
Making soup from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you’re serving your family wholesome and nutritious meals. The star of this dish, broccoli, is packed with vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health, making this soup not just delicious but also beneficial.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup fits the bill. It’s easy to prepare and can be made in under an hour, making it a fantastic choice for busy schedules. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your family.
This soup is also versatile; you can easily customize the cheese or add additional veggies to suit your taste. Consider adding carrots or spinach for an extra boost of nutrition. It's a dish that brings people together, making it a staple in your home.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to three months. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing. If you prefer a creamier consistency, consider adding a splash of cream when reheating.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious soup:
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to make your comforting soup!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add Broccoli and Broth
Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Stir in Cream and Cheese
Return the blended soup to the pot, then stir in the heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and enjoy your Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup!
Your delicious soup is now ready to be enjoyed!
Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli
Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrition, loaded with vitamins C, K, and A, as well as fiber and antioxidants. These nutrients play a crucial role in boosting your immune system and promoting overall health. Incorporating broccoli into your diet can help reduce inflammation and support heart health, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal.
In this Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup, the broccoli not only adds nutrition but also contributes a vibrant color and texture that enhances the overall experience. It’s a delicious way to ensure you’re getting your daily dose of vegetables.
Cheese Variations You Can Try
While sharp cheddar cheese is the star of this recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment with other cheeses to create new flavor profiles. A combination of Gruyère and Parmesan can add a nutty depth, or you might choose a milder cheese like Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. Each cheese brings its own unique twist, allowing you to tailor the soup to your preferences.
For a spicy kick, consider adding pepper jack cheese or mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility, encouraging you to get creative in the kitchen.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made a day in advance. Just reheat it on the stove before serving.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad.
→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but the texture may differ slightly compared to fresh.
Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Warm up with this delightful Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup, perfect for chilly days. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with nutritious broccoli, it's a bowl of pure comfort.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Return the blended soup to the pot, then stir in the heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and enjoy your Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 10g