Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Truly the BEST Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe! It’s perfectly cheesy, hearty, rich, and creamy. This soup is super easy to make and is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Pair it with fresh bread for a delightful meal that everyone will love. Enjoy this comforting dish any time of year!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup comes together in just 25 minutes.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as a main dish or alongside your favorite bread for dunking.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh broccoli and low-fat milk, this recipe provides nutrients while satisfying your cravings.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a chilly day, this soup fits perfectly into any event.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Whisk
• Ladle
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all the ingredients together without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate milk and broth smoothly, preventing lumps from forming.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving your delicious soup without making a mess.

Ingredients

To create the best Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe, you’ll need the following 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
• 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
• salt and freshly ground black pepper, (to taste)

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter

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, cooking for about 1 minute while stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 3: Incorporate Milk and Broth

While whisking continuously, slowly pour in milk followed by chicken broth. Stir in the chopped broccoli.

Step 4: Thicken the Mixture

Cook while stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken. Then reduce heat to low. Allow it to cook while stirring very frequently until the broccoli is tender, about 6 – 8 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream, then add cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted through.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with additional cheddar on top if desired. Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

This creamy and cheesy broccoli cheese soup is not only delicious but also versatile. It pairs beautifully with various sides or garnishes, enhancing your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the soup. The bread soaks up the rich flavors perfectly.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Add a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese on top before serving. It melts into the hot soup, creating an even cheesier delight.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Finely chop fresh herbs like parsley or chives and sprinkle them on top. This adds a pop of color and a fresh taste to each bowl.

With a Dollop of Sour Cream

• A teaspoon of sour cream can add a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.

Served in Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive presentation and adds to the flavor.

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How to Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

To achieve the best broccoli cheese soup, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets provide better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones.

• Shred Your Own Cheese: Grating cheese from a block melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties, giving you a creamier soup.

• Control Thickness: If you desire a thicker consistency, let the soup simmer longer or add more flour gradually until you reach your preferred thickness.

• Balance Flavors: Adjust salt and pepper according to taste. A pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the broccoli; it should be tender yet vibrant green for maximum nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your broccoli cheese soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy soup perfectly and adds a savory crunch.

2. Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.

3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic grilled cheese is always a hit; it’s perfect for dipping into your warm soup.

4. Quinoa Salad: A healthy quinoa salad adds texture and nutrients while balancing out the meal’s richness.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring sweetness and depth that pairs well with cheesy broccoli goodness.

6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast, making for a comforting addition to your dinner table.

7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are an excellent crunchy option that complements every spoonful of soup.

8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse your palate between bites, offering a sweet finish to your meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the final taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Using cheap cheese can lead to a bland taste. Always opt for high-quality sharp cheddar for the best flavor.
• Not Cooking the Broccoli Properly: Overcooking or undercooking broccoli can affect its texture. Cook it just until tender for the best result.
• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season adequately will leave your soup flat. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout cooking.
• Rushing the Thickening Process: If you rush this step, your soup may end up too runny. Allow the mixture to thicken gradually on low heat.
• Not Whisking Enough: Not whisking while adding liquids can create lumps. Whisk continuously to ensure a smooth consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; allow it to cool completely before freezing.

Reheating Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe:

What makes this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe so special?

This recipe combines rich cheeses with fresh broccoli, creating a comforting and flavorful soup that’s easy to make at home.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just add it during the cooking process, but adjust cooking time as needed.

How can I customize my Broccoli Cheese Soup?

Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or cauliflower, or different cheeses such as gouda for a unique twist.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with various ingredients, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy its creamy richness paired with your favorite bread!