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Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

This Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for chilly days. Made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich creamy base, it blends wholesome flavors and smooth textures into a hearty, quick-to-make soup ideal for weeknight dinners or hearty lunches.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Fats

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Liquids and Seasonings

  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and cut the fresh broccoli into small florets. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic to release their fragrant flavors when cooked.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Broccoli: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking gently until translucent to create a flavorful base. Add the broccoli florets and stir frequently to soften them without becoming mushy.
  3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the pot and stir thoroughly to combine it with the butter-vegetable mixture. Cook the flour for 2 minutes to avoid any raw taste and to help thicken the soup.
  4. Add Liquids and Simmer: Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Then add the milk and heavy cream. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to fully soften the broccoli and allow the flavors to blend.
  5. Blend and Add Cheese: Optionally, use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup to achieve a creamy texture while retaining some broccoli chunks for texture. Gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese off the heat to allow it to melt smoothly without curdling.
  6. Season and Serve: Finish the soup by seasoning with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning before ladling into bowls and serving warm.

Notes

  • Use fresh broccoli and quality cheese for vibrant color and rich flavor.
  • Do not overcook the broccoli; soften it just enough to maintain bright color and texture.
  • Add cheese gradually off the heat to prevent clumping or separation.
  • Cook the flour properly before adding liquids to avoid a raw flour taste.
  • Partial blending provides a perfect balance of smooth and chunky textures.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheese soup, creamy soup, comfort food, quick soup recipe, vegetarian soup