Growing up in Chicago, my kitchen was the heart of our home, filled with the aroma of hearty meals and the laughter of family. My babcia, with her thick Polish accent and endless love, would often prepare comforting dishes that warmed our souls during the harsh Midwest winters. One of my favorite memories is of her broccoli cheddar soup, a dish that we would eagerly gather around the table to enjoy. This broccoli cheddar soup guide is inspired by those cherished moments, with a modern twist that nods to my family’s Polish roots while embracing the comforting essence of American cuisine.
As a busy mom of two, Ella and Peter, I love recipes that are not only delicious but also simple to prepare. This soup is a family favorite that I’ve adapted over the years to suit our tastes and dietary needs. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with the goodness of fresh broccoli, making it a hit even with the little ones. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this broccoli cheddar soup guide will walk you through creating a bowl of cozy perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This broccoli cheddar soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for a chilly day or when you need a hug in a bowl. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins from broccoli and protein from cheese.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to be gluten-free or vegetarian.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for a pot of delicious broccoli cheddar soup:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the flour, cooking for about a minute to form a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
- Gradually whisk in the broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the broccoli and carrots, cooking until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the milk or cream, followed by the cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste. If desired, use an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for a classic touch.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
- Cheese Choice: Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Thickening: If the soup is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce; if too thick, add more broth.
- Blending: For a creamier texture, blend the soup partially or fully with an immersion blender.
Cooking Tools
When I make this recipe, a few simple tools always make prep faster and cleaner. My go-to tool is the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife for chopping vegetables swiftly and safely. For blending the soup to creamy perfection, the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is a game-changer, allowing me to sauté and simmer all in one pot.
Variations and Substitutions
Here are some creative ways to customize your soup:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free blend.
- Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and add more veggies like cauliflower or potatoes.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your broccoli cheddar soup with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. A crisp white wine or a light beer pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the soup.
FAQs
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How can I make it creamier?
For an extra creamy texture, use heavy cream instead of milk and blend the soup until smooth.
Final Thoughts
I hope this broccoli cheddar soup guide brings warmth and joy to your table, as it has to mine. Cooking is all about love and sharing, and I encourage you to make this recipe your own. Don’t forget to share your results with me—I’d love to hear how it turned out!
👉 I hope you loved making this Broccoli Cheddar Soup—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. If you’re in the mood for more comforting dishes, check out my Chicken Noodle Soup, Creamy Potato Soup, or Tomato Basil Soup. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group—and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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Broccoli Cheddar Soup Guide: 6 Creamy Recipes to Try in 3
A comforting and creamy broccoli cheddar soup inspired by family traditions, perfect for cozy meals.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until onion is translucent.
- Stir in flour to form a roux. Gradually whisk in broth, bring to a simmer.
- Add broccoli and carrots, cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Reduce heat, stir in milk or cream, followed by cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture if desired.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or in a bread bowl.