Broccoli Cheddar Soup is one of my favorite comfort foods, especially when the days start to get chilly.
I can’t wait to share this cozy dinner recipe with you!
It’s a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for warming up after a long day. 🥦🧀
To whip up this delicious soup, here’s what you’ll need:
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Dinner Recipe
Equipment
- Large Pot: It’s essential for cooking soup evenly.
- Whisk: Helps in blending ingredients smoothly.
- Ladle: Makes serving the soup easy and mess-free.
- Knife: For chopping broccoli and other veggies.
- Cutting Board: Protects your countertop during prep.
- Bowls: Perfect for serving your delicious soup.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure the right ingredient ratios.
- Having these items ready will make the cooking process smooth and fun! 😊
Ingredients
- 4 cups of chopped broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups milk
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- Optional: Croutons and fresh parsley for garnish
Gathering your ingredients is crucial to start the cooking adventure!
Instructions
- Prep the Veggies: Chop broccoli and onions, and mince the garlic.
- Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add Broth: Stir in broccoli and broth, then bring to a simmer.
- Make It Creamy: In a small bowl, whisk flour with milk, then add to the pot.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season and Serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve with croutons and parsley.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a wonderful soup to enjoy! 😋
Notes
For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth.
This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove for best results.
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg.
These tips ensure your Broccoli Cheddar Soup is always delightful! 🥦🍜
Presentation & Serving
When my Broccoli Cheddar Soup is ready, I love to make it look as good as it tastes! 🍲
I start by serving it in a beautiful bowl. This makes the soup feel warm and inviting.
I often use a deep white bowl so the green of the broccoli and the cheesy color really pop.
To add a little touch, I sprinkle some chopped chives or parsley on top. This gives it a fresh look.
You can also use some extra grated cheddar cheese for a gooey finish. 🧀
If I’m having friends over, I like to serve it with crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for dipping. Sometimes, I even add a few crackers for some crunch.
Here’s a quick look at my serving tools and garnishes:
- Equipment:
- Deep white bowls
- Soup ladle
- Serving tray
- Garnishes:
- Chopped chives 🌿
- Grated cheddar cheese
- Crusty bread or crackers
This way, my soup is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.
😋 Share it with someone special and enjoy the cozy comfort it brings!
Storage Tips
Storing leftover broccoli cheddar soup is simple and keeps it delicious for later! 🥦🧀
Equipment Needed:
- Airtight containers
- Freezer bags
Instructions:
- Cool it Down: Let my soup cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and keeps it fresh.
- Refrigeration: For short-term storage, I spoon the soup into an airtight container. It lasts up to three days in the fridge.
- Freezing: For longer storage, I use freezer bags. I lay them flat to save space. The soup is good for up to three months in the freezer. ❄️
- Reheating: When I’m ready to enjoy, I thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight.I heat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm. I add a splash of milk if it gets too thick.
🥣 Pro Tip: Store soup before adding extra toppings.
I keep cheese and broccoli separate, if I’ve got lots left over. It stays fresh and tasty for longer!
I love having soup ready whenever I crave it! ❤️
Recipe Variation
I love tweaking my Broccoli Cheddar Soup! It’s so easy to play around with the flavors and ingredients. Here are some of my favorite variations to try. 🥦🧀
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
- Ladle
Ingredients
- Broccoli: Swap regular broccoli for broccolini for a more tender texture.
- Cheese: Use sharp cheddar or mix it with gruyère for a bold taste.
- Milk: Substitute with coconut milk for a creamier and nuttier soup.
- Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne for a spicy kick. 🌶️
Instructions
- Broccoli: Steam broccolini until tender, then blend for a smooth consistency.
- Cheese: Stir in your choice of cheese until melted and creamy.
- Milk: Pour in coconut milk and simmer on low heat.
- Spices: Mix in nutmeg or cayenne for extra flavor pop.
Mixing things up brings new life to my favorite soup. Share your own twists! 😄
Pairing
I just love making Broccoli Cheddar Soup for dinner! 🥦🧀 It’s so warm and cozy. To make it even better, I like to pair it with some delicious sides.
Bread
I always grab a crusty loaf of bread. Freshly baked sourdough or a baguette is my favorite.
The crunchy texture pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
Salad
A crisp green salad is a great choice.
I often mix some spinach and arugula, topped with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette. 🍅🥗 It adds a refreshing touch.
Drinks
As for drinks, I usually pour myself a glass of iced tea. It’s light and refreshing.
If I feel like something warmer, a cup of green tea works well too.
Cheese
For a little extra, I sprinkle some extra cheese on top.
Crumbled feta or parmesan adds a nice flavor boost. 🧀
These pairings make my broccoli cheddar soup night even more delightful.
Try them out to elevate your dinner too!
Tips & Tricks
I love making Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Equip Yourself:
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Ladle
- Essential Ingredients:
- Fresh broccoli
- Sharp cheddar cheese
- Vegetable broth
- Heavy cream
- Onion
- Instructions in a Pinch:
- Sauté onion until soft.
- Mix in broccoli and sauté for a few minutes.
- Add broth and cook until broccoli is tender.
- Stir in cheese and cream. Mix until smooth.
Tip: Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor. It really brings out the cheesy goodness!
Trick: If you like a smooth soup, blend it until creamy. For a chunkier feel, lightly mash the broccoli with a fork.
Here’s a secret: Add a pinch of nutmeg for a unique, tasty twist. It really elevates the soup!
Use day-old bread to make some crunchy croutons. Just toast, cube, and sprinkle on top for an extra crunch.
This soup’s even better the next day, so storing leftovers is a great idea. Plus, the flavors get even more amazing!
So often I find myself making a double batch.
Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious soup!
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m super excited to share these helpful tips and tricks for making Broccoli Cheddar Soup the best it can be! From the secrets to creamy perfection to avoiding gassiness, let’s dive right in! 🥦🧀
What’s the secret to making the creamiest broccoli cheddar soup ever?
To achieve that amazing creamy texture, I use fresh broccoli and quality cheddar cheese. Blending part of the soup gives it smoothness.
A splash of heavy cream at the end ties it all together, making it extra rich and creamy!
Can you suggest some amazing sides to serve with broccoli cheddar soup?
Pairing this soup with a crusty bread is a classic choice!
Garlic breadsticks or cheesy biscuits complement the flavors perfectly. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add freshness and balance.
What are the steps to easily thicken broccoli cheddar soup for that perfect texture?
If the soup is too thin, I mix a tablespoon of flour with a bit of milk to make a slurry, then stir it in.
Simmering for a few minutes will help it thicken. Alternatively, mashed potatoes can also lend a creamy texture without altering the flavor.
How can you modify classic broccoli cheddar soup to be vegetarian-friendly?
Most broccoli cheddar soups are already vegetarian. Just ensure the broth you use is vegetable-based.
Some recipes call for chicken broth, so remember to swap that for a veggie alternative to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Could you share some tips for avoiding gassiness after enjoying broccoli cheddar soup?
I find that using fresh broccoli helps, as older broccoli might cause more gas.
Chewing slowly and drinking ginger tea after helps too. A sprinkle of cumin while cooking can also reduce bloating.
What ingredients make the Pioneer Woman’s broccoli cheddar soup dinner recipe a must-try?
The Pioneer Woman’s recipe stands out with its use of sharp cheddar cheese and half-and-half for that rich taste.
The addition of nutmeg gives a unique warmth that sets it apart.
Don’t forget butter and chicken broth to enhance the depth of flavor!
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