A Comforting, Creamy Delight for Cold Days
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing better than a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness to warm you up. Broccoli cheese soup is a classic comfort food that combines the earthiness of broccoli with the richness of melted cheese and creamy broth. This delicious soup is perfect for those who want something hearty and satisfying, whether it’s served as a starter, a main course, or paired with a side salad or sandwich.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through a delicious recipe for broccoli cheese soup, offering step-by-step instructions, ingredient variations, tips, and tricks, as well as keto and low-carb options for those looking for a healthier alternative. This rich, velvety soup is not only a family favorite but also a great way to sneak in some vegetables while indulging in comforting flavors.
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Soup
To make a simple and flavorful broccoli cheese soup, you only need a few key ingredients. Below is a basic list, but feel free to adjust quantities or add extra ingredients based on your personal preference.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese for added richness
Instructions: How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup
Making broccoli cheese soup is a simple and straightforward process. With a few basic steps, you’ll have a bowl of creamy soup ready to enjoy in no time.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté them until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This will enhance the flavor of the soup and create a flavorful base.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Next, add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for about 2-3 minutes, just to lightly soften them. This helps to preserve the bright green color of the broccoli while releasing some of its natural flavors.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, until the broccoli is tender. You can also use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup for a smoother texture or leave it as is for a chunkier version.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Once the broccoli is tender, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream, which will add richness and creaminess to the soup. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously to melt the cheese into the soup. For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a cup of shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Once the cheese is fully melted, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. If you want a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your preferred consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Serve your broccoli cheese soup hot, topped with additional shredded cheese or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Cook Notes: Tips and Tricks for the Best Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Texture Preferences: If you prefer a smoother, creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you like chunks of broccoli in your soup, simply blend only half of the soup or leave it chunky.
- Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is the classic choice for broccoli cheese soup, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Swiss are all excellent alternatives that will give your soup a unique flavor.
- Make It Vegan: For a vegan version of this soup, swap out the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk, almond milk, or cashew cream. Use vegan cheese or skip the cheese entirely for a lighter, dairy-free option.
- Spices and Seasonings: While salt and pepper are the essential seasonings, you can also add a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder for extra flavor. For a spicy kick, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Broth Options: The type of broth you use can affect the flavor of the soup. If you want a lighter version, vegetable broth works well. For a richer, more savory flavor, chicken broth is a great choice. You can also use homemade broth for an even more flavorful soup.
Variations of Broccoli Cheese Soup
One of the great things about broccoli cheese soup is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try:
1. Bacon Broccoli Cheese Soup
If you’re a fan of bacon, adding crispy bacon bits to your soup is an easy way to enhance the flavor. Simply cook some bacon until crispy, chop it up, and stir it into the soup at the end. The smoky, salty bacon pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and broccoli.
2. Broccoli Cheese Soup with Cauliflower
For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding cauliflower to the soup. Cauliflower has a similar texture to broccoli and will blend seamlessly into the soup, adding extra fiber and nutrients without compromising the flavor.
3. Broccoli Cheese Soup with Chicken
If you’d like to make the soup more filling and add some protein, try adding cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken works well for this recipe, as it’s already cooked and can be shredded into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the soup.
4. Low-Carb Broccoli Cheese Soup
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, this soup is already low in carbs thanks to the use of broccoli and cheese. However, if you want to make it even more keto-friendly, you can skip the cream and use full-fat coconut milk or almond milk instead. This substitution will keep the soup creamy without adding any carbs from dairy.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions of Broccoli Cheese Soup
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you don’t have to miss out on the creamy, cheesy goodness of broccoli cheese soup. By making a few simple substitutions, you can easily create a keto-friendly version that’s just as satisfying.
Keto-Friendly Substitutions:
- Cream: Use heavy cream or coconut cream for added richness. You can also use full-fat Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier version.
- Cheese: Stick with full-fat cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Avoid low-fat cheese, as it doesn’t melt as well.
- Broth: Use bone broth or chicken broth for added protein and collagen. These broths are low in carbs and add extra flavor to the soup.
- Thickening: If you want a thicker soup, you can use a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum or guar gum. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until the soup reaches your desired consistency.
Low-Carb Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic for 2 minutes.
- Add the broccoli and chicken broth, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and continue to cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add the shredded cheese, and stir until it melts completely.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze broccoli cheese soup?
Yes, broccoli cheese soup can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When reheating, gently heat it on the stovetop and add a bit of extra cream or broth to bring the soup back to its creamy consistency.
2. How can I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender. Another option is to use a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum or guar gum.
3. What can I serve with broccoli cheese soup?
Broccoli cheese soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich. For a keto-friendly option, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.
4. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make broccoli cheese soup ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting for a few hours. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring it back to its creamy consistency.
Conclusion
Broccoli cheese soup is a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that is perfect for warming up during the colder months. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the delicious variations, this soup is customizable to suit all tastes and dietary needs. From keto-friendly versions to added bacon or chicken, the possibilities are endless. So, grab your ingredients and start cooking – your perfect bowl of broccoli cheese soup is just a few steps away!
