This Broccoli Cheese Soup is a warm, cheesy hug in a bowl! Packed with fresh broccoli and creamy cheese, it’s super comforting on a chilly day.
Plus, it’s easy to make. I love how quick it comes together, and my kids can’t resist dipping bread into the cheesy goodness. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: I love using butter for its flavor, but feel free to use olive oil for a healthier option. It changes the flavor slightly but still delivers a delicious soup.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the star here, but if it’s not in season, frozen broccoli works too. Just thaw it before adding to the pot!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack or even a blend of cheeses. Just adjust the amount based on what you prefer!
Milk: Whole milk makes it creamier, but you can swap in 2% or even almond milk for a lighter soup. Just know that the flavor and thickness may vary a bit.
Red Pepper Flakes: If you want a little heat, red pepper flakes are perfect! You can also try fresh jalapeños or leave them out for a milder soup.
How Can I Avoid Lumps When Adding Milk and Flour?
When mixing flour and milk, it’s important to whisk well to avoid lumps. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use a small bowl for whisking together the milk and flour until smooth. This prevents clumps from forming.
- Pour the mixture slowly into the pot while stirring constantly. This helps it blend into the soup smoothly.
- If lumps still form, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup once it’s done cooking.
By following these steps, you’ll have a perfectly creamy broccoli cheese soup ready to enjoy!
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy meal any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with Sautéing the Veggies:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions become translucent. This will help build a lovely flavor base for your soup!
2. Add the Broccoli and Carrot:
Next, toss the diced carrot and broccoli florets into the pot. Stir them occasionally and cook for another 5 minutes. This will soften the veggies and make them ready for the next steps.
3. Bring on the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until your broccoli and carrots are nice and tender. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
4. Thicken the Soup:
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the soup thickens slightly. It’s going to get creamy and delicious!
5. Add the Cheddar Cheese:
Remove the pot from the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it’s melted and fully combined. Don’t forget to season your soup with salt and pepper to taste; add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Broccoli Cheese Soup is now ready! Serve it hot, and if you’d like, enjoy it with some crusty bread on the side. It’s a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just add it to the pot directly, and you may need to simmer for an extra minute or two until it’s heated through and tender.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No problem at all! You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water. If using water, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or additional seasonings to boost the flavor.
How to Store Leftover Broccoli Cheese Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency. You can add a splash of milk if it thickens up too much.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk in place of dairy milk and opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative. Just make sure to check the cheese for melting properties to achieve a creamy texture!
