Description
This creamy and delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup is comfort food at its finest! With tender broccoli, rich heavy cream, and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup will warm you from the inside out. Perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Croutons for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour into the pot and stir. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add the Broth: Slowly pour in the broth while stirring continuously. Increase the heat to bring it to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Broccoli: Once boiling, toss in the broccoli florets. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot and garnish with croutons, if desired.
Notes
- Frozen Broccoli: You can substitute fresh broccoli with frozen, but be sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.
- Substitute for Heavy Cream: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute with half and half, whole milk, or a combination of milk and melted butter.
- Storing Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
- Other Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or spinach to the soup along with the broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American