Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe – Cooking Classy

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of broccoli cheese soup to brighten your day, and this recipe delivers all the creamy, cheesy goodness you could ever want. With its velvety texture, rich flavor, and perfect balance of broccoli and cheese, this soup is a family favorite that’s both satisfying and easy to make. The combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates a depth of flavor that makes every spoonful irresistible. Whether served as a main course or as an appetizer, this broccoli cheese soup is perfect for a cozy night in or entertaining guests.

This recipe is not only flavorful, but it’s also versatile. The fresh broccoli adds a nutritious touch to this hearty soup, making it a great way to sneak in some vegetables without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, so you can enjoy this comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory with a delightful crunch from the fresh broccoli.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Texture

The combination of butter, cream, and milk creates a wonderfully smooth and rich base, while the broccoli maintains its fresh crunch.

2. Cheesy Delight

With both sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese, this soup has a perfect balance of rich, tangy cheese flavor in every bite.

3. Easy to Make

This soup comes together in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or comforting weekend meal.

4. Healthy and Nutritious

Packed with fresh broccoli, this soup provides essential vitamins and nutrients while still satisfying your cravings for something rich and creamy.

5. Comfort Food

It’s the perfect meal for cold weather, offering a warm, hearty, and comforting bowl of soup that feels like a hug in a mug.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

For the Soup

• Butter (cut into pieces)
• Yellow onion (finely chopped)
• Garlic (finely minced)
• All-purpose flour
• Low-fat milk (plus extra for thinning)
• Low-sodium chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Fresh broccoli florets (finely chopped)
• Sharp cheddar cheese (or extra sharp cheddar)
• Parmesan cheese (finely shredded)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Variations

• Add Protein: For a heartier soup, add cooked chicken, turkey, or even crumbled sausage to the soup for a protein-packed meal.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño to give the soup a little heat.
• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and use dairy-free cheese.
• Vegan Version: You can use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk), and vegan cheese to make this soup completely vegan-friendly.
• Thicken It: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of milk, or add more flour to the roux to create a thicker base.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Add the flour to the pot and whisk it into the butter and onion mixture. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour forms a light golden color.

Step 3: Add Liquids

Slowly pour in the low-fat milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Once the liquid is fully incorporated, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add the Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a simmer. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the soup is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Add the Broccoli

Add the finely chopped broccoli florets to the soup, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Remove the soup from the heat and gradually stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, and sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top for extra cheesy goodness. Serve with crusty bread for dipping or enjoy as is!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: To maintain the broccoli’s bright color and fresh flavor, don’t overcook it. Simmer just until it’s tender.
• Use Fresh Broccoli: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh broccoli instead of frozen broccoli.
• Whisk Constantly: When adding the flour and liquids, whisk constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth base for the soup.
• Customize the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite flavor combination. Gruyère or mozzarella can be a great addition for a unique twist.

How to Serve

Serve this creamy broccoli cheese soup with crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping. You can also pair it with a light side salad to balance out the richness of the soup. For extra flavor, top each bowl with a sprinkle of additional cheddar cheese, fresh herbs like parsley, or even a drizzle of olive oil.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover broccoli cheese soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit more milk to thin it out if necessary.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen, though it’s important to note that the cheese may change in texture after freezing. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop, adding milk as needed.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if the soup is too thick, and adjust the seasoning if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but fresh broccoli will provide the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the soup.

2. Can I make this soup without heavy cream?

Yes, you can omit the heavy cream and use additional milk or a non-dairy milk alternative for a lighter version of the soup.

3. How do I make the soup thicker?

To make the soup thicker, increase the amount of flour when making the roux or simmer the soup longer to reduce the liquid.

4. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or finely chopped jalapeños to the soup to give it some heat.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Gouda for a unique flavor.

6. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.

7. Can I freeze broccoli cheese soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup, but keep in mind the cheese may alter in texture after freezing. Thaw and reheat gently.

8. Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon to make the soup heartier.

9. Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and vegan cheese to make this soup vegan-friendly.

10. How do I make the soup smoother?

For an ultra-smooth soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheese Soup is the ultimate comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh broccoli. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for cozy dinners or sharing with loved ones. With its rich flavor and comforting texture, this soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen, whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack.

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