Creamy soups can bring warmth and comfort on chilly days. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Packed with fresh broccoli and melty cheddar cheese, it’s a delightful dish you’ll enjoy making again and again.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This broccoli cheddar soup is easy to make and tastes wonderful. It is creamy, filling, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend lunch. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up this healthy delight in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to get in your veggies!
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Delight Soup
Making this soup is simple and fun. You will start by sautéing some aromatic onions and garlic. Then, you’ll add broccoli and broth, letting everything simmer until soft. Blending the soup creates a smooth and creamy base, and adding cheese makes it rich and comforting.
What You Need
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (or cream for a richer soup)
- 1 cup cooked chicken or white beans (for protein)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme (optional)
Step-by-Step
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Add cooked chicken or white beans for protein.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth (or blend in batches in a regular blender).
- Return the soup to heat and stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Delight Soup
This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or fresh salad. You can sprinkle extra cheese on top for added richness. It’s a great dish for family gatherings or when entertaining friends. Perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner!
How to Store Broccoli Cheddar Delight Soup
To keep your soup fresh, let it cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to three months. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it needs to be creamy again.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor.
- Do not overblend the soup; a little texture adds character.
- Feel free to swap cheddar for other types of cheese like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
- Thicken the soup with more beans or chicken if desired.
- Taste before serving and adjust the seasoning as you like.
Variations & Swaps
- Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version; skip the chicken.
- Make it chunky by leaving some broccoli florets whole before blending.
- Try different seasonings like cayenne for a bit of heat or lemon for a fresh twist.
- Creamy alternative: Use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup stores well in the fridge for a few days. It’s even tastier the next day!
Is it okay to freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Just let it cool and pack it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months.
How do I reheat the leftover soup?
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally and add more milk if needed.
What can I use instead of chicken?
You can use white beans for a vegetarian option or easily skip it all together.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If it’s too thick, just stir in a little broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
Broccoli Cheddar Delight Soup
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh is best for flavor.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded Can substitute with other cheese like Gruyère.
- 1 medium onion, chopped For the base flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the flavor.
- 4 cups vegetable broth Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
- 1 cup milk Or cream for a richer soup.
- 1 cup cooked chicken or white beans For added protein.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust seasoning as needed.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
- 1 teaspoon thyme (optional) Add for extra flavor.
Instructions
Cooking the Soup
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Add cooked chicken or white beans for protein.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth (or blend in batches in a regular blender).
- Return the soup to heat and stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
