Introduction
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup to warm your soul. This Delicious Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect for those cozy evenings when comfort food is a must.
With its velvety texture and rich flavor, this soup combines the earthy goodness of broccoli with the sharp, tangy notes of cheddar cheese. It's not just a dish; it's an experience that invites you to slow down and savor every spoonful.
Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends, this recipe is simple yet satisfying. Grab your favorite bread for dipping and let’s dive into this creamy delight.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Optional: croutons and additional cheddar for garnish
Directions & Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and potato to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook for about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli and potato are tender.
- Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
- Once blended, return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with croutons and extra cheddar if desired.
FAQs
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
Add a bit more vegetable broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes while cooking.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding.
What if my soup is too bland?
Try adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of more salt to enhance the flavor.
Can I scale this recipe up or down?
Absolutely! Just maintain the same ratio of ingredients for larger or smaller servings.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative can be used for a lighter version.
Conclusion
This Delicious Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a heartwarming dish that embodies the essence of cozy evenings. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a staple in any home kitchen.
So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a bowl of comfort that’s sure to warm both your heart and your home.
Recipe Card
Delicious Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup for Cozy Evenings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium potato peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Optional: croutons and additional cheddar for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and potato to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook for about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli and potato are tender.
- Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
- Once blended, return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with croutons and extra cheddar if desired.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
