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I love this 30-minute cheddar broccoli soup. It’s the best comfort food for cold days. It’s full of tender veggies and cheesy goodness.
My version of this soup is better than Panera’s. It’s rich, smooth, and great for a big meal. Sharp cheddar and tender broccoli make a delicious mix. It makes 4-8 servings.
This soup is easy to make and always hits the spot. Everyone loves it and asks for more!
Exact Ingredients List (+ Possible Substitutes)
I love making this delicious cheddar broccoli soup. It’s easy to make and tastes great. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3-4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1-2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
If you’re missing some ingredients, don’t worry. You can swap them out easily. Use chicken stock instead of vegetable broth. If you can’t find julienned carrots, matchstick-cut ones work well. For a richer taste, try using half-and-half cream instead of milk.
The broccoli florets are the main ingredient. They add crunch and lots of nutrients. The sharp cheddar cheese makes the soup cheesy and delicious. Remember, using fresh ingredients makes the soup the best!
Instructions
Let’s start making the soup! I melt butter in a big pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, I add diced onions and cook until they’re soft.
Then, I add minced garlic and cook for a minute more. Next, I sprinkle flour over the mix and whisk it well. This makes the soup thick.
Next, I slowly pour in milk while whisking. This stops lumps from forming. Then, I add broth, broccoli, carrots, and a bit of mustard for taste.
Now, I simmer the soup for 15-20 minutes, stirring now and then. This makes the veggies tender and blends the flavors.
Finally, I melt cheese in the soup. I add shredded cheddar and stir until it’s all melted. For a smooth soup, I blend some soup and mix it back in.
After 30-45 minutes of cooking, my Cheddar Broccoli Soup is done! I taste it and add salt and pepper as needed. The result is a creamy, cheesy soup that’s perfect for warming up.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
I love sharing my kitchen secrets! For the best cheese grating experience, I always grate my own cheese. It melts beautifully and gives the soup a smooth consistency. When adding flour and milk, I whisk non-stop to avoid those pesky lumps.
Here’s a pro tip: add cheese over low heat. This ensures it incorporates perfectly into your soup. If you’re aiming for a velvety texture, try blending a portion of the soup.
Got leftovers? No problem! My go-to storage tips include using an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When it’s time for reheating soup, I use the stovetop. Medium-low heat is key, and don’t forget to stir now and then.
- For thicker soup consistency: Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry
- Add the slurry at the end of cooking
- Stir well to achieve your desired thickness
Remember, these little tricks can make a big difference in your soup’s flavor and texture. Happy cooking!
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
I love pairing this cheddar broccoli soup with warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping! Try making homemade croutons to sprinkle on top. They add a nice crunch and extra flavor to each spoonful.
For a complete meal, I often serve this soup with simple vegetable sides. Sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts work great. A fresh green salad is another tasty option that balances out the richness of the soup.
Want to switch things up? Try using different types of cheese or adding extra veggies like celery. For my vegetarian friends, I swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. It’s just as delicious! To make it extra special, I sometimes garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a handful of shredded cheese on top.
On busy days, I pair this soup with a half sandwich for a quick and satisfying lunch. The possibilities are endless when it comes to soup pairings, so feel free to get creative and find your favorite combination!