Creamy Dreamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ready in Under an Hour

Recipe Introduction

Fancy a bowl of comfort? I know I always do. Have you ever wondered how to make broccoli cheddar soup that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because you're about to learn! This recipe gives you a rich, cheesy, and totally satisfying bowl of goodness.

Quick Hook

Honestly, Quick And Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup is my go-to on a chilly day. This recipe combines creamy cheddar with tender broccoli. It's simple yet delivers maximum flavour.

Brief Overview

This soup has its roots in classic American comfort food. It's a hug in a bowl. It's also super straightforward to make.

It takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 hungry souls.

Main Benefits

Broccoli is packed with vitamins. I love it. This Simple Broccoli Cheese Soup is not only delicious but also sneaks in some goodness.

Serve it for a cozy family dinner or a potluck. It's guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser. What makes this recipe special is the perfect balance of cheesy richness and fresh broccoli flavour.

You can also make home-made Broccoli Cheese Soup .

Okay, so before we dive into the good stuff, here's a little story. The first time I tried making this, I totally scorched the milk.

The lesson? Low and slow is the way to go! Now, let's gather our bits and bobs for the Best Broccoli Cheese Soup you will ever have.

Okay, mate! Let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this best broccoli cheese soup . Trust me, it's easier than understanding cricket! My grandma use to make that, so I learned how to make broccoli cheddar when i was just a little man.

Ingredients & Equipment: Your Toolkit for Quick And Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup

Right, before we get our aprons on, let's gather the troops, shall we? Having everything ready makes how to make broccoli cheddar super simple.

Honestly, there's nothing worse than realising you're missing something halfway through!

Main Ingredients: The Stars of Our Show

• Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . Good quality butter just tastes better.
• Yellow onion: 1 medium , diced (about 1 cup / 150g ). Don't skimp; onions are the foundation!
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (roughly 2 teaspoons / 5g ). Fresh is best, but jarred works in a pinch.
• All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup (30g) . This thickens things up.
• Vegetable broth: 4 cups (950 ml) . You can use chicken broth for a richer home-made broccoli cheese soup , but veggie keeps it lighter.
• Whole milk: 2 cups (475 ml) . Full fat is key for that creamy texture!
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g) . Adjust to taste, everyone's different!
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) . Freshly ground is always a bit better.
• Nutmeg: Pinch (optional). Adds a little something special, you know?
• Broccoli florets: 4 cups (approx. 400g) , cut into bite sized bits. Fresh is great, but frozen works well for simple broccoli cheese soup , especially for one pot broccoli cheddar soup .
• Sharp cheddar cheese: 2 cups (approx. 200g) , shredded. Seriously, go sharp! It makes all the difference. Pre-shredded is fine, but grating your own melts better.

Seasoning Notes: Adding That Extra Oomph

A touch of nutmeg elevates it, honestly! Salt and pepper are your best mates, so don't be shy.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

You don't need fancy stuff!

• Large pot or Dutch oven. This is where the magic happens!
• Whisk. Goodbye lumps!
• Measuring cups and spoons. Precise baking is a must!
• Cutting board and knife. Chop, chop!

If you don't have a whisk, a fork works fine. Honestly, it doesn't need to be perfect to learn how to make broccoli cheddar !

Alright, let's get started, mate! Fancy learning how to make broccoli cheddar soup? It's easier than you think! Honestly, this recipe is a proper hug in a bowl.

Perfect for those chilly evenings. Trust me, even if you can barely boil an egg, you can nail this. We'll make the Best Broccoli Cheese Soup you've ever tasted.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic

First things first, gather your troops! Chop 1 medium yellow onion (about 1 cup). Mince 2 cloves of garlic . Measure out ¼ cup of flour , 4 cups of broth , 2 cups of milk , and of course 4 cups of broccoli florets .

Grate 2 cups of cheddar cheese . Having everything ready saves time and stress. This is the essential mise en place.

Time saving tip: Pre-chopped veggies are your friend. But fresh is best!

step-by-step: From Zero to Hero

Alright, here's the easy bit. This is the Simple Broccoli Cheese Soup part of the story.

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot. Add the onion. Cook until soft. That's about 5 minutes . Chuck in the garlic and cook until you can smell it. About 1 minute .
2. Whisk in ¼ cup of flour . Cook for 1- 2 minutes This makes a roux. A roux gives it that lovely creamy texture.
3. Gradually whisk in 4 cups of vegetable broth . Then 2 cups of milk . Keep whisking to avoid lumps! No one likes a lumpy soup!
4. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper . A pinch of nutmeg is optional. But trust me, it elevates it.
5. Simmer for about 15 minutes , stirring now and then. The soup should thicken slightly. Don't boil it!
6. Add 4 cups of broccoli florets . Simmer until tender. About 5 minutes . Bright green and easily pierced with a fork!
7. Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in 2 cups of cheddar cheese . Stir until smooth. Do NOT boil after adding the cheese.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning. More salt? More pepper? You're the boss!

And there you have it. A proper Quick And Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup !

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Soup Game

Want to take it up a notch? I know you do!

• Don't overcook the broccoli! Mushy broccoli is a crime against soup.
• Gradually add the cheese. It prevents clumping.
• For a Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup , use full fat milk.
• For home-made Broccoli Cheese Soup , toast the flour for a richer flavor!
• You can even use Broccoli Cheddar Soup With Velveeta , but sharp cheddar is a proper must.

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Easy to make is a real crowd pleaser. If you have leftover soup, it keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days.

It is perfect for a One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup . Get cooking and enjoy!

Right then, let's talk shop about this seriously lush Creamy Dreamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. You know, the kind that warms you right down to your toes? This ain’t just any cheese soup recipe .

It's got secrets! So, before you even think about grabbing your wooden spoon, have a butcher's at these notes.

Recipe Notes for the Best Broccoli Cheese Soup

Honestly, the difference between a good soup and a fantastic soup is often in the details. And trust me, how to make broccoli cheddar soup that’s mind blowing isn’t rocket science.

Let's dive in:

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

Right, presentation matters, doesn't it? Think about swirling a bit of cream on top. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese is always a winner.

Fancy some crunch? Croutons or a swirl of pesto does the trick. I sometimes chuck a few extra, slightly steamed broccoli florets on top.

As for drinks, a crisp white wine or even a pint of your favourite brew goes down a treat.

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Leftovers? You lucky thing! This simple broccoli cheese soup keeps well. Just bung it in the fridge in an airtight container.

It'll be good for about three days. Freezing is a shout too, but the texture might change a bit. When reheating, low and slow is the way to go.

Avoid the microwave if you can, as it can make the creamy broccoli cheddar soup a bit...split.

Variations: Making it Your Own

Want to mix it up? Easy peasy. For a veggie option, swap the butter for olive oil. Use vegetable stock, naturally.

To make it a bit lighter, use semi skimmed milk instead of whole. Seasonal swaps? Try adding some roasted butternut squash in the autumn.

The home-made broccoli cheese soup is yours to adapt! Honestly, you can even turn it into one pot broccoli cheddar soup with a bit of fiddling about.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl

Alright, so let’s be real, this isn't exactly health food. But it's got broccoli in it, which is a win! It provides some vitamins, so every little helps.

The Quick And Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup is comfort food, first and foremost. It has protein from the cheese, so it'll keep you full.

The Best Broccoli Cheese Soup is about balance, isn't it?

So there you have it. A cracking soup, loads of options, and hopefully, a bit of a laugh along the way.

Now, get your apron on and go make some Broccoli cheddar soup recipe easy as pie!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make broccoli cheddar soup extra creamy, like something you'd get at a posh restaurant?

For that extra creamy texture, akin to something you'd find at a fancy bistro, consider using an immersion blender to partially blend the soup after the broccoli is cooked. Just be careful not to over blend it you still want some broccoli florets for texture.

Alternatively, a splash of heavy cream at the end can also do the trick, adding a touch of richness that'll make your soup truly decadent. Just like a Mary Berry bake!

My broccoli cheddar soup sometimes turns out grainy. What am I doing wrong?

Grainy soup is often a sign that the cheese has separated. The key to avoiding this is to add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly over low heat. Do NOT let the soup boil after adding the cheese, as that's a surefire way to cause separation.

Think of it like making a delicate custard patience and low heat are your friends.

Can I use frozen broccoli when I try to figure out how to make broccoli cheddar soup?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a perfectly acceptable substitute for fresh, especially if you're short on time or fresh broccoli isn't looking its best. Just thaw it beforehand to remove excess water, which can dilute the flavour of the soup.

It might not have quite the same vibrant colour as fresh, but the taste will still be delicious.

What are some tasty additions or variations I could try with this broccoli cheddar soup?

Feeling adventurous? Why not add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or some cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavour? A swirl of sour cream or a sprinkle of croutons on top also elevates the dish.

For a vegan twist, you can easily substitute the dairy milk with almond or cashew milk and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour. Get creative, it's your soup!

How long does broccoli cheddar soup last in the fridge, and is it freezer friendly?

Properly stored in an airtight container in the fridge, your broccoli cheddar soup should last for 3-4 days. It's a great make-ahead meal! While you can freeze it, the texture might change slightly, becoming a little less creamy due to the dairy content.

If you do freeze it, consider using it within 1-2 months and thaw it slowly in the refrigerator before reheating, stirring frequently.

I'm watching my weight; is there a lighter version of this broccoli cheddar soup recipe I could try?

You can absolutely lighten up this recipe! Use skim milk instead of whole milk to cut down on the fat content. You can also use less cheese, or opt for a reduced fat cheddar. Bulking up the soup with more broccoli will make it more filling without adding extra calories. Perhaps try cauliflower for half of the broccoli.

It's a great way to enjoy the classic flavour with fewer calories, like a good Weight Watchers recipe!