Ah, Broccoli Cheese Soup! It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. This delightful soup brings together the fresh flavors of tender broccoli and the rich, creamy texture of cheese, making it an irresistible choice on a chilly day. The combination of ingredients creates a comforting meal that is both hearty and healthy. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a cozy afternoon snack.
Making this soup from scratch is an exciting culinary adventure! You will enjoy the process of cooking, as you sauté onions and garlic to create a flavorful base. Watching the broccoli transform into tender morsels while mingling with the cheese is simply satisfying. Plus, your kitchen will be filled with the tantalizing aroma of melted cheese and buttery vegetables, drawing family and friends to the table.
Lastly, this Broccoli Cheese Soup is not only delicious, but it’s also adaptable. You can use leftover vegetables or different types of cheese based on your preference. Whether you prefer a sharp cheddar or a creamy Gruyere, there is room for creativity. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe and make something wonderful together!
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients:
4 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups milk
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Directions:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. The aroma will start to fill the air nicely!
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to the soup.
Now, sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir it to form a roux, cooking it for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually add the broth while stirring constantly. This will help to create a smooth mixture.
Next, toss in the broccoli florets and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender and vibrant.
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the milk, stirring to blend everything beautifully.
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg for that extra touch.
If you prefer a silky texture, you can use an immersion blender to achieve your desired consistency.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Soup
Serving Broccoli Cheese Soup is an absolute joy! Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. Imagine the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they dig into their cozy bowls of soup!
Pair this delightful soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. The combination of creamy soup and a crunchy baguette or a fresh garden salad creates a wonderful dining experience, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Don’t forget to share! This soup is best enjoyed with family and friends. Encourage everyone to share their thoughts as they savor each spoonful. Create lovely memories around the table, as connections are often strengthened over a homemade meal.
Additional Tips:
- To save time, you can prepare the soup in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a bit of heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.
Nutrition Facts:
(Provide the nutrition facts that are appropriate for this recipe if available.)
FAQ Section
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze Broccoli Cheese Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months.
Is there a way to make it lighter?
You can use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese to make a lighter version of this soup!
Broccoli Cheese Soup
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful soup, and relish in the happiness it brings to your table!
Print Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients
4 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups milk
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. The aroma will start to fill the air nicely!
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to the soup.
Now, sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir it to form a roux, cooking it for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually add the broth while stirring constantly. This will help to create a smooth mixture.
Next, toss in the broccoli florets and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender and vibrant.
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the milk, stirring to blend everything beautifully.
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg for that extra touch.
If you prefer a silky texture, you can use an immersion blender to achieve your desired consistency.
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