Broccoli cheddar soup is a creamy, cheesy bowl built on broccoli florets simmered in broth with onion and garlic, then finished with shredded sharp cheddar and milk or cream. Blend it smooth or keep it chunky, and top it with croutons.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

To prepare broccoli cheddar soup, you’ll need the following:

4 cups of fresh broccoli florets
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of butter
2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
3 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup of milk or heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional garnish: Croutons or extra shredded cheese

Step-by-Step Recipe

Prepare the Broccoli:
- Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets. Set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Add Broth and Broccoli:
- Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the broccoli florets and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Blend the Soup (Optional):
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup for a smoother texture, or leave it chunky for a heartier feel.
Incorporate the Cheese and Milk:
- Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk or heavy cream. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with croutons or extra shredded cheese for added flavour.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values for one serving of broccoli cheddar soup (based on the above recipe, serving 4):

Calories: 250-300
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 500-700mg (varies based on broth and cheese used)
Sugar: 4g

Tips for Customization

Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter option.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Ensure the broth used is vegetable-based for a vegetarian version.
Boost Protein: Add cooked chicken or tofu for a protein-packed meal.

Try this recipe today and enjoy the wholesome goodness of homemade broccoli cheddar soup!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I simmer the broccoli?

Simmer the florets in the broth for 15 to 20 minutes, until they are tender. Then blend the soup if you want a smoother texture, or leave it chunky.

How do I get the cheese to melt smoothly?

Turn the heat down before you add the cheese and milk. Stir until the cheddar has melted completely and the soup looks creamy, then season with salt and pepper.

Can I make broccoli cheddar soup lighter or vegetarian?

Yes. Low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese give a lighter soup, and vegetable broth in place of chicken broth makes it vegetarian.

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Broccoli Cheddar Soup and Its Nutritional Information