Delicious Homemade Broccoli and Cheddar Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting dish that can warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds, look no further than this easy Broccoli and cheddar soup recipe. This classic soup combines the vibrant, earthy flavor of fresh broccoli with the creamy, rich taste of cheddar cheese, creating a comforting bowl that’s perfect for chilly evenings or quick weeknight dinners. The origin of broccoli and cheddar soup dates back to the mid-20th century in America, quickly gaining popularity for its creamy texture and hearty flavor. This homemade broccoli and cheddar soup from scratch is not just simple to prepare but also versatile, allowing for variations that cater to different dietary preferences, including a vegan option!

In this guide, you’ll find a thorough recipe that outlines key steps, helpful tips, and insightful variations to create the perfect bowl of soup that everyone will love. Whether you’re kitchen-savvy or just starting, this recipe is tailored for you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Serving Size: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for vegan option)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or vegan cheese for a dairy-free version)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a vegan option)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

• Additional shredded cheese
• Croutons
• Chopped chives or scallions

Equipment List

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender (immersion blender works best, or a standard blender)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping your broccoli into small florets. Dice the onion and peel the potato, cutting it into small, even cubes. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling slightly, add diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Add the Potato and Broccoli: Introduce the diced potato and broccoli florets to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes. This will help to slightly soften the vegetables and enhance their flavors.
4. Pour in the Broth: Add 4 cups of vegetable broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes until the potatoes and broccoli are tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
5. Blend the Soup: Once the vegetables are soft, remove the pot from the heat. If using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender, being cautious of the hot liquid. Blend until creamy and smooth.
6. Add Cream and Cheese: Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream (or coconut milk if you prefer a vegan option) and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (or vegan cheese) until they are fully melted and incorporated. The soup should now have a luscious, creamy texture.
7. Season to Taste: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. If you desire more cheddar flavor, feel free to add an extra handful of cheese at this stage.
8. Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheese, croutons, or chopped chives. This will add a beautiful touch to your presentation.

Special Notes

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the soup over medium heat on the stove until it reaches your desired temperature. Add a splash of broth if the soup seems too thick.
• Make Ahead: Feel free to prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat when ready to serve.
• Troubleshooting: If the soup is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of broth or milk until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow extra liquid to evaporate.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegan Option: For a vegan Broccoli and cheddar soup, simply substitute the cheddar with a vegan cheese and the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free broth. Always double-check ingredients if you have allergies.
• Add Proteins: To make the soup heartier, consider adding cooked shredded chicken about halfway through cooking or enjoying with protein-rich garnishes like chickpeas.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, spinach, or cauliflower to boost nutrition and flavor.

Nutritional Information

While the following values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used, here is a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g

Engaging Visual Details

Imagine the rich green color of the broccoli melding beautifully with the golden-orange hue of melted cheddar cheese, creating a feast for the eyes. As you begin the sautéing process, the kitchen fills with the sweet aroma of onions and garlic, a precursor to the full-bodied flavor about to unfold. The moment you blend the soup into a velvety texture, it becomes irresistible. Serve with crispy croutons scattered atop and perhaps a sprinkle of fresh chives for an inviting finish.

To enhance your presentation, consider capturing images of each major step: the vibrant colors of the vegetables, the creamy texture after blending, and the beautifully garnished final dish. Short videos demonstrating key techniques, such as blending and adding the cheese, can also engage viewers more deeply.

Conclusion

This delightful homemade Broccoli and cheddar soup is not just a dish but an experience that warms both the body and soul. With its creamy texture, robust flavor, and quick preparation time, it’s bound to become a staple in your household. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy this classic comfort food made quickly from scratch. Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe! Additionally, share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish to inspire others in their kitchen adventures!