Description
This Quick and Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting, creamy classic perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines tender broccoli florets with sharp cheddar cheese in a flavorful broth, making a deliciously smooth and satisfying soup that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Liquids
- 1 cup vegetable broth
Spices
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Melt Butter: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pot over medium heat until it is fully liquefied and begins to bubble gently.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add 1/2 cup diced onion and 2 cloves minced garlic to the melted butter. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Add Broccoli and Broth: Stir in 2 cups of broccoli florets and 1 cup of vegetable broth into the pot. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 10-12 minutes. This softens the broccoli, making it ready for blending.
- Blend Soup: Using an immersion blender directly in the pot or transferring the contents to a blender, puree the soup until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Return the blended soup to the pot if removed. Stir in 1 cup of milk and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Continue cooking over low heat.
- Melt Cheese and Heat Soup: Stir the soup gently until the cheddar cheese melts completely and the soup is heated through, but avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
- Serve: Ladle the warm broccoli cheddar soup into bowls and serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- For a richer soup, substitute milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
- To make it vegan, replace butter with olive oil, milk with a plant-based alternative, and use vegan cheese.
- Adjust seasoning by adding more salt or pepper to taste.
- Be careful not to boil the soup after adding cheese to avoid separation.
