Broccoli Cheddar Soup Sharp Cheddar
Highlighted under: Family Favorite Comfort Food
A creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup made with sharp cheddar for an extra kick of flavor.
This delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect for chilly evenings. The sharp cheddar adds a delightful tang that elevates the dish, making it a favorite among cheese lovers.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms the soul
- Sharp cheddar adds depth and complexity to the flavor
- Easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
A Classic Comfort Food
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a beloved classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its creamy consistency and rich flavors, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly evening. The combination of vibrant broccoli and sharp cheddar creates a delightful balance that is both satisfying and nutritious. This soup not only comforts the soul but also provides a hearty dose of vegetables, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in under an hour. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to encourage your family to enjoy their greens, especially for picky eaters.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the many advantages of Broccoli Cheddar Soup is how well it holds up for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch, portion it out, and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. This is perfect for those who want to save time during the week while still enjoying a wholesome, homemade meal. Simply reheat and enjoy this comforting dish on demand.
When stored properly, this soup can last up to three days in the fridge or up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to leave out the cream and cheese if you plan to freeze it; add those ingredients back in when reheating to maintain the soup's rich texture and flavor.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about Broccoli Cheddar Soup is its versatility. While the recipe calls for sharp cheddar cheese, you can easily experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. A blend of cheeses such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack can add unique flavors and creaminess. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes for an extra nutritional boost.
For those looking to make this soup lighter, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, or use a plant-based milk alternative. This recipe can even be made vegan by omitting cheese and cream or using cashew cream as a replacement. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the soup to fit any dietary preference.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for a delicious soup:
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir for another 2-3 minutes. Then pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, only blend part of it.
Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Cook on low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup!
Serving Suggestions
Broccoli Cheddar Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, enhancing your meal experience. Consider serving it with warm, crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete and satisfying dinner. A simple grilled cheese sandwich also makes a delightful pairing, adding another layer of comfort to your meal.
For a touch of elegance, you can garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley. A drizzle of olive oil or a dash of hot sauce can also elevate the flavors, giving your soup a gourmet twist. These finishing touches not only enhance the visual appeal but also add an extra layer of flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To store your Broccoli Cheddar Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps prevent condensation from forming, which can affect the texture of the soup. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up.
If you plan to freeze the soup, make sure to portion it into smaller containers for quick and easy meals later on. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and always remember to adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors can sometimes mellow during storage.
Nutritional Benefits
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just delicious; it also packs a nutritional punch. Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and a host of antioxidants that support overall health. When combined with sharp cheddar cheese, you also get a good source of calcium and protein, making this soup a well-rounded option for any meal.
Moreover, the heavy cream adds a satisfying richness that helps to keep you feeling full. Enjoying a bowl of this soup can be a great way to meet your daily vegetable intake while indulging in a creamy, comforting dish. It's a win-win for both taste and nutrition!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ How can I make this soup healthier?
You can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Sharp Cheddar
A creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup made with sharp cheddar for an extra kick of flavor.
Created by: Lena
Recipe Type: Family Favorite Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir for another 2-3 minutes. Then pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, only blend part of it.
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Cook on low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g