Easy Broccoli And Cheese Soup Recipe

Broccoli and cheese soup-what could be more comforting than this creamy, velvety bowl of goodness? It’s the kind of soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, filling you up and warming you from the inside out. The combination of tender broccoli and rich, cheesy goodness is like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re craving something hearty for lunch or dinner, or just need a side dish that steals the show, this soup is sure to satisfy.

This recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for both beginners in the kitchen and experienced cooks looking for a quick, delicious meal. The best part? It requires only a handful of ingredients and is ready in less than an hour. We’re talking minimal effort, maximum flavor. Let’s dive into this broccoli and cheese soup, from ingredients to variations, and everything in between.

Easy Broccoli And Cheese Soup Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe that brings all the rich, cheesy flavor you crave without taking up a ton of time. We’re keeping it uncomplicated but full of flavor, so even if you’ve never made soup before, you’ll feel like a pro in no time.

Ingredients Needed

To make this soup, you won’t need anything too fancy. Here’s the breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Broccoli (Fresh or Frozen) – 4 cups of florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces. Fresh broccoli is great if you have it, but frozen works just as well.
• Butter – 4 tablespoons. This is the base for your soup, adding richness and depth to the flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – 1/4 cup. This is your thickening agent. You’ll make a roux with the butter and flour.
• Milk – 2 cups (whole milk is preferred for creaminess, but you can use a milk alternative if needed).
• Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth for a vegetarian version) – 2 cups. Adds flavor without being too overpowering.
• Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups. The star ingredient! Sharp cheddar gives the soup that rich, tangy flavor that’s so irresistible.
• Salt and Pepper – For seasoning, to taste. You can adjust this depending on your preference.
• Onion (optional) – 1 small, finely chopped. This adds a subtle layer of sweetness and savory flavor to the soup.
• Garlic (optional) – 2 cloves, minced. Garlic makes everything better, right?

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got your ingredients together, it’s time to get cooking. This soup comes together in just a few simple steps:

1. Prep Your Broccoli: If you’re using fresh broccoli, chop it into florets and steam or blanch it until it’s tender (about 5 minutes). If you’re using frozen, just thaw it a bit, and you’re good to go.
2. Make the Roux: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the flour and stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes. This mixture, called a roux, will thicken the soup and give it that creamy texture. Don’t let the flour brown-you’re aiming for a pale golden color.
3. Add the Liquids: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, making sure to stir continuously so you don’t get lumps. Bring this mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
4. Add the Broccoli: Once the liquid is simmering, toss in your cooked broccoli. Stir it in to combine, and let everything cook together for about 5-10 minutes so the flavors meld.
5. Add the Cheese: Now, it’s time for the best part-adding the cheese! Slowly stir in the shredded sharp cheddar, a little at a time, so it melts smoothly into the soup. Keep stirring until it’s completely melted and you have a luscious, cheesy consistency.
6. Season and Serve: Taste your soup, then season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to take it up a notch, add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

Each of these ingredients plays a key role in creating the perfect broccoli and cheese soup:

• Broccoli: Not only is it full of vitamins and antioxidants, but its slightly bitter flavor pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheese. Broccoli’s texture adds substance to the soup, giving it a satisfying bite.
• Butter: The foundation of your soup’s flavor. It helps create the smooth base when combined with the flour, and also adds a luxurious mouthfeel.
• All-Purpose Flour: The flour is what thickens your soup, turning the liquid into that smooth, velvety consistency. It helps to create the perfect ’creaminess’ without needing to add actual cream.
• Milk: This adds a rich, creamy flavor to the soup without it becoming overly heavy. Whole milk is ideal for the best results, but alternatives like almond milk or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free version.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is the MVP of this recipe. It adds a wonderful tanginess that balances out the natural sweetness of the broccoli. You could also experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different twist.

Expert Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: You want the broccoli to still have some bite. Overcooked broccoli can turn mushy, which makes for a less enjoyable soup.
• Use Fresh, High-Quality Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best texture, grate the cheese yourself right before using it.
• Add More Veggies: If you want to sneak in more veggies, feel free to add cauliflower, carrots, or even spinach. They’ll blend in well with the broccoli and cheese, giving you a little extra nutrition without compromising the flavor.
• Texture Preferences: If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup once everything is cooked. For a chunkier texture, keep the broccoli in larger pieces.

Recipe Variations

Here are a few ways to make this recipe your own:

• Spicy Broccoli and Cheese Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat. You could even throw in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Bacon Lover’s Broccoli and Cheese Soup: Crisp up some bacon and crumble it into the soup right before serving. Bacon adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheesy soup.
• Vegan Version: Swap out the butter for olive oil, use plant-based milk like almond or oat, and choose a vegan cheese that melts well. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor if you want to amp up the vegan cheese profile.
• Add a Potato: If you like a heartier soup, add diced potatoes in with the broccoli. The potatoes absorb the flavors of the soup and give it more texture.

Final Words

Broccoli and cheese soup is one of those recipes that has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s comforting, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for feeding your soul-and your stomach.