Truly the BEST Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe! This dish is perfect for cozy evenings, gatherings, or simply when you crave a hearty meal. It blends rich flavors and creamy textures that will warm your soul. The combination of sharp cheddar and fresh broccoli makes this soup a standout choice for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deliciously Cheesy: Indulge in the comforting taste of sharp cheddar cheese that melts beautifully into every bowl.
Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can whip up this creamy soup in no time!
Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or as a delightful side. It’s also an excellent pairing with crusty bread.
Nutritious Option: Packed with fresh broccoli florets, this soup offers vitamins and minerals while satisfying your cheese cravings.
Customizable Recipe: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, like extra veggies or different types of cheese, for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparing this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Whisk
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly, allowing all flavors to meld perfectly.
Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when mixing in liquids like milk and broth.
Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even cooking while keeping your kitchen mess-free.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 6 Tbsp butter, (cut into 1 Tbsp pieces)
– 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 1 large clove garlic, (finely minced)
– 1/4 cup + 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 3 1/4 cups low-fat milk, (then more to thin if desired)
– 1 (14.5 oz) can low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 3 cups (packed) finely chopped fresh broccoli florets
– 10 oz (2 1/2 cups) sharp cheddar cheese (or extra sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for serving)
– 1 oz (1/3 cup) finely shredded Parmesan cheese
– salt and freshly ground black pepper, (to taste)

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in the finely chopped onions and cook them, stirring frequently until they are nearly soft, about 4 – 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Flour

Once the onions are soft, add in the minced garlic along with the flour. Cook for about one minute while stirring constantly to combine.

Step 3: Incorporate Milk and Broth

While whisking continuously, slowly pour in the low-fat milk followed by the low-sodium chicken broth. Stir in the chopped broccoli florets.

Step 4: Thicken the Mixture

Continue cooking while stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken. Then reduce heat to low and let it cook while stirring very frequently until the broccoli is tender, which should take about 6 – 8 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Remove from heat. Stir in the heavy cream followed by both cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until everything is melted together seamlessly.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm with additional cheddar on top if desired. Enjoy your delightful bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Serving your Broccoli Cheese Soup is just as important as making it. The right accompaniments can elevate the experience, making your meal even more enjoyable and cozy.

With Fresh Bread

Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
Garlic Bread: Adds a flavorful twist that complements the cheese.

Topped with Extra Cheese

Shredded Cheddar: Sprinkle some fresh cheddar on top for an extra cheesy bite.
Parmesan Crust: A light dusting of Parmesan creates a delightful texture.

Garnished with Herbs

Chopped Chives: Fresh chives add color and a mild onion flavor.
Parsley Sprigs: A touch of parsley brightens up the dish visually.

Add Protein

Cooked Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that pairs well with the soup.
Diced Chicken: For a heartier option, add chicken for additional protein.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Creating the best Broccoli Cheese Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets retain their vibrant color and flavor better than frozen.
Whisk Constantly: To prevent lumps in your soup, whisk while adding milk and broth.
Adjust Thickness: If your soup is too thick, add more milk gradually until desired consistency is reached.
Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking will deepen its flavors.
Blend for Smoothness: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before adding cheese.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Broccoli Cheese Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement the rich flavors of the soup beautifully.

Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables add texture and nutrients alongside your creamy dish.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with hot soup for dipping.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread adds a lovely contrast to the savory soup.
Stuffed Peppers: Hearty stuffed peppers provide protein and flavor, making for a filling meal.
Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges offer a satisfying crunch that complements each spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheese Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid pitfalls.

Ignoring the onion: Onions add flavor. Make sure to cook them until soft for the best taste.
Overcooking the broccoli: Broccoli should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on it while cooking.
Using low-quality cheese: The cheese is key in this recipe. Opt for sharp cheddar for a rich flavor.
Skipping the seasoning: Salt and pepper enhance the soup’s taste. Don’t forget to season well at the end.
Not stirring enough: Stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. Be attentive during the thickening process.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Allow soup to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Leave space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and heat until warm, stirring occasionally.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, in short increments, stirring between each until hot.
Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe along with their answers.

How can I make my Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe thicker?

You can thicken the soup by adding more flour or by blending a portion of it and returning it back into the pot.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe?

Yes! Frozen broccoli can be used, though you may need to adjust cooking times slightly.

What is the best cheese for Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe?

Sharp cheddar is recommended for its strong flavor, but you can also mix in Gruyère or Monterey Jack for variety.

Is this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe healthy?

While it is creamy and rich, using low-fat milk and fresh vegetables makes it a healthier option compared to many other soups.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is truly heartwarming and comforting. It’s perfect for chilly evenings and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread. Feel free to customize it by adding extra veggies or different cheeses based on your preferences. Enjoy this cozy dish that brings joy with every spoonful!

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Broccoli Cheese Soup

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of our Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe, the ultimate comfort dish perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. This delightful soup features a luscious blend of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli, creating a satisfying meal that warms your soul. With its quick preparation time and customizable ingredients, you can enjoy this hearty soup as a main course or paired with crusty bread for dipping. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious option or simply craving something cheesy, this recipe delivers on all fronts!

Ingredients

Scale

6 Tbsp butter
1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
1 large clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup + 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
3 1/4 cups low-fat milk
1 (14.5 oz) can low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 cups finely chopped fresh broccoli florets
10 oz sharp cheddar cheese
1 oz finely shredded Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until soft (about 4-5 minutes).
Stir in garlic and flour; cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in low-fat milk and chicken broth, then add chopped broccoli.
Cook until thickened, about 6-8 minutes on low heat until broccoli is tender.
Remove from heat, stir in heavy cream and cheeses until melted.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: American