Why This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a Must-Try
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful choice that warms you up inside and out. This creamy soup combines the goodness of fresh broccoli with the rich flavor of sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a perfect comfort food for chilly days, and it’s easy to make! If you want something simple, delicious, and satisfying, this recipe hits the spot.
Simple Steps to Create This Delicious Soup
Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a breeze! With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can whip up a bowl of this tasty dish. Let’s walk through the ingredients and directions to get you started.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Start by adding the broccoli, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to your crockpot.
- Cook everything on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Once it’s cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your preferred texture.
- Stir in the cream and cheddar cheese, then let it cook on low for another 15–20 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Serve your soup hot, topped with extra cheese or crunchy croutons for a fun twist!
Enjoying Your Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is fantastic all on its own, but you can also get creative! Serve it with some freshly baked bread or a light salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and your family will love it.
Storing Your Leftover Soup
If you have leftovers (which is rare with this deliciousness!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens up too much.
Tips to Perfect Your Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Adjust the Texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture and leave the rest as is.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese, like Gouda or Monterey Jack, for a new flavor.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in other veggies like carrots or potatoes for more nutrition and taste.
Fun Variations to Try
Don’t hesitate to switch it up! You can add some cooked chicken for protein, or toss in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor. For a spicy kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Nutritional Information
While the exact nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients, a typical serving of Broccoli Cheddar Soup contains:
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
Serving Ideas for Family
When serving your soup, consider adding some side dishes. A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully. For a hearty meal, you could serve it alongside a sandwich or a wrap.
Pairing Suggestions for the Perfect Meal
Broccoli Cheddar Soup goes well with:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- Toasted baguette slices
- A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works great. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the soup.
2. Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and replace the cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese option.
3. How can I make it spicier?
You can add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the cooking process to give it a kick.
Enjoy making your Broccoli Cheddar Soup! It’s simple, comforting, and oh-so-tasty!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream Can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Add the broccoli, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to your crockpot.
Cooking
- Cook everything on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Once it’s cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your preferred texture.
- Stir in the cream and cheddar cheese, then let it cook on low for another 15–20 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Serve your soup hot, topped with extra cheese or crunchy croutons for a fun twist!
