Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

A cozy bowl of Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch, this soup delivers rich flavors and creamy goodness that everyone loves. Plus, it’s simple to make and is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or in a sourdough bread bowl for an extra special touch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for busy schedules.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and broccoli creates a rich, creamy taste that warms the soul.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it in a bread bowl, with croutons, or alongside your favorite sandwich for a complete meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein, this soup makes for a healthy choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious soup, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup efficiently, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing enough space for all ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps to blend in flour smoothly without lumps, ensuring a creamy texture.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface and gives you control over mixing.

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 5 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ onion (chopped)
• ⅓ cups all purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 celery stalk (finely diced)
• 2½ cups broccoli (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 cups shredded cheddar (2 cups plus 1 cup for topping)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter

1. Place a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the unsalted butter, allowing it to melt completely.
3. Once melted, add the chopped onion, sweating it for about 5 minutes until translucent.

Step 2: Create the Roux

1. Whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flavor.

Step 3: Add Chicken Stock

1. Gradually stir in chicken stock, seasoning generously with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables

1. Add the finely diced celery and broccoli pieces, bringing the mixture to a boil.
2. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer until vegetables are tender, around 15 minutes.

Step 5: Thicken the Soup

1. Stir in the whole milk, continuing to simmer until thickened enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon (about 2-3 minutes). The soup should have a ‘soupy’ texture.

Step 6: Add Cheese

1. Remove pot from heat and stir in shredded cheddar, adding small handfuls at a time until melted.

Step 7: Final Seasoning & Serve

1. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as desired.
2. Top with additional cheddar before serving hot.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm and comforting dish that pairs well with various sides. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Sourdough Bread Bowls

• Serve the soup in hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls for a fun and edible presentation. The bread absorbs the flavors, making each bite delightful.

With Crusty Artisan Bread

• Pair the soup with slices of crusty artisan bread. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of the cheesy goodness.

Topped with Croutons

• Add a crunchy texture by topping your soup with homemade or store-bought croutons. They provide a nice contrast to the creamy soup.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Enhance the flavor and presentation by garnishing the soup with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. They add a pop of color and freshness.

With a Side Salad

• Balance the richness of the soup with a light side salad. A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the flavors nicely.

How to Perfect Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To ensure your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips for success.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli not only tastes better but also maintains its texture during cooking, contributing to a delightful bite.

• Shred your cheese: Grating cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese helps it melt more smoothly into the soup.

• Adjust seasonings: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Personalize it to suit your flavor preferences.

• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling once you add milk, as high heat can cause it to curdle. A gentle simmer keeps your soup creamy.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding an aromatic flavor.

2. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing of a Caesar salad offer a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring extra nutrients and flavors to your meal while complementing the soup’s creaminess.

4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides protein and fiber, balancing out the meal nicely.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, or vegetables make for a hearty side that pairs well with this comforting soup.

6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses alongside crackers creates an elegant side that enhances the cheesy flavor of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it’s crucial to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the final dish’s flavor and texture.

• Not chopping broccoli properly: Ensure that broccoli is cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Larger pieces may remain crunchy and disrupt the soup’s smoothness.
• Skipping the onion: The onion adds essential flavor. Skipping it can result in a bland soup. Always sauté the onion until it’s soft and translucent.
• Adding cheese too quickly: Adding all the cheese at once can lead to clumping. Gradually stir in small handfuls, allowing each addition to melt before adding more.
• Using low-quality cheese: For the best flavor, use high-quality cheddar cheese. Cheaper cheeses may not melt well or provide the rich taste you desire.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on simmering time to maintain a pleasant texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Salt and pepper enhance flavors significantly. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Pour soup into a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup so special?

This Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavors from fresh ingredients like broccoli and cheddar cheese.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth.

How do I thicken my Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, whisk in a bit more flour or cornstarch mixed with water during cooking.

What can I serve with Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or served in sourdough bread bowls for an extra treat!

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or cauliflower, or spice it up with some red pepper flakes.

Final Thoughts

Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only quick and simple but also incredibly versatile. This cozy dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be easily customized with your favorite veggies or spices. Try it today and enjoy its comforting flavors!