Winter’s chill brings a perfect time for homemade broccoli cheese soup. The smell of cooking veggies and cheese is like a warm hug. It’s the ultimate cozy meal. Today, I’ll show you how to make this creamy soup in just 30 minutes.
Key Takeaways
- This broccoli cheese soup recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for as long as 3 months.
- With 318 calories per serving, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal option.
- The recipe calls for 1 pound of broccoli florets and 2 cups of low-fat cheddar cheese.
- Simmering the soup for 20 minutes ensures the broccoli and carrots are perfectly tender.
Why This Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Will Become Your Favorite
Comforting, winter warmers like creamy broccoli cheese soup are classics. This recipe is a perfect blend of beloved flavors, just like Panera Bread’s. But it has a richer texture and more broccoli taste.
Origins of the Recipe
This broccoli cheese soup was inspired by Panera Bread’s version. We worked hard to make a 30-minute recipe. It’s creamier and has more broccoli and cheddar flavor.
Key Benefits and Features
- Simple and fast to make in just 30 minutes
- Thick, velvety texture that coats the spoon
- Emphasis on broccoli and cheddar flavors, without distracting carrots
- Ideal comfort food for chilly evenings or easy meal prep
- Nutritious with just 148 calories per cup, compared to other soups with 250+ calories
What Makes It Special
This broccoli cheese soup is special because it focuses on broccoli and cheddar. It leaves out carrots to highlight these flavors. It’s both comforting and healthy, great for any time of year.
“This broccoli cheese soup is absolute perfection. The texture is so velvety, and the flavors are just spot-on. It’s sure to become a staple in my dinner rotation.”
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup
To make a rich and creamy broccoli cheese soup, you need the right ingredients. Start with unsalted butter, chopped onion, and all-purpose flour for a luscious roux. Then, add chicken or vegetable stock, along with celery and broccoli florets to build the flavor.
Whole milk makes the soup velvety-smooth, and shredded cheddar cheese adds that cheesy goodness. Season with salt and black pepper to enhance the taste.
Some recipes might use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of whole milk. You can also add mustard powder, garlic powder, or vegetable stock powder for extra flavor. Using freshly grated cheese is key for a smooth texture.
“The secret to a perfect broccoli cheese soup lies in the quality of the ingredients and the technique used to bring them together.”
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a comforting and cheesy delight. It will warm your soul and make you want more of these nutritious bowls.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a tasty homemade broccoli cheese soup, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. This recipe is easy to prepare and uses common cookware found in most kitchens.
Essential Cookware
- A large pot or Dutch oven to simmer the soup
- A sturdy cutting board and sharp knife for prepping the ingredients
- A liquid measuring cup to ensure accurate measurements
- Dry measuring cups and spoons for portioning the dry ingredients
- A cheese grater for shredding the cheese
- A wooden spoon for stirring the soup
Optional Tools for Enhanced Results
While basic cookware works well, some optional tools can improve your soup. A blender or immersion blender can make the soup smoother and creamier. This is great if you like your soup smooth rather than chunky.
Measuring Equipment
Getting the flavors right and the consistency perfect is crucial. Make sure you have accurate measuring cups and spoons. This ensures you add the right amounts of each ingredient, making your broccoli cheese soup delicious every time.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making a tasty broccoli cheese soup at home is simple. It takes just about 30 minutes to prepare. This makes it a great easy meal prep choice for when you’re in a hurry.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Stir in the milk and seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
- Add the broccoli florets and simmer the soup for about 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a little at a time, until the cheese is fully melted and the soup has a creamy, velvety texture.
This broccoli cheese soup is simple and quick to prepare. It’s ready in about 30 minutes. The whole family will love its rich, cheesy flavor and tender broccoli.
Secret Tips for Achieving the Perfect Consistency
Making the perfect creamy soup or cheesy delights needs attention to detail. For a top-notch broccoli cheese soup, the key is in a few important steps.
Cheese Selection and Preparation
The right cheese makes a big difference. Choose freshly grated cheddar for the creamiest soup. Stay away from pre-shredded cheese, as it can ruin the smoothness. Grate the cheese right before adding it to the pot for the best melt.
Temperature Control Techniques
Keeping the right temperature is crucial. When adding cheese, take the pot off the heat. This stops the dairy from getting too hot and curdling. Slowly add the cheese, whisking well after each addition.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your soup is too thin, a cornstarch slurry can fix it. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water until smooth. Then, stir it into the soup to thicken it without losing flavor.
With these secret tips, you’ll make a creamy soup with a great texture every time.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
This homemade broccoli cheese soup is not just tasty, but also a nutritional powerhouse. It has about 445 calories, 17g carbs, 21g protein, and 33g fat. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and potassium, thanks to the broccoli and cheese.
The broccoli in this recipe is a fiber and nutrient powerhouse. One serving of broccoli gives you nearly 135% of your daily Vitamin C. The frozen broccoli used is also packed with nutrients, making it a budget-friendly choice.
The recipe uses evaporated skim milk and extra-sharp cheddar cheese for a creamy soup with less fat and calories. It also uses homemade low-sodium stock, which cuts down on sodium compared to canned or pre-made stocks.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 445 | – |
| Carbohydrates | 17g | 6% |
| Protein | 21g | 42% |
| Fat | 33g | 51% |
| Vitamin A | 2350 IU | 47% |
| Vitamin C | 108 mg | 135% |
| Calcium | 453 mg | 45% |
| Potassium | 610 mg | 17% |
While this broccoli cheese soup is full of nutrients, it’s also high in calories and fat. It’s best to control your portions. Pair it with lighter options like salads, sandwiches, or whole grain bread for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoy the convenience of easy meal prep with this delightful winter warmers broccoli cheese soup. To ensure you can savor its creamy goodness anytime, let’s explore the proper storage methods and reheating practices.
Proper Storage Methods
This soup can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For optimal freshness, cool the soup completely before transferring it to the fridge.
Best Reheating Practices
When you’re ready to indulge in a comforting bowl, the key is to reheat the soup gently. On the stovetop, use low to medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. In the microwave, set the power to medium (50%) and reheat in short intervals, again stirring intermittently. Avoid rapid boiling, as it can affect the soup’s smooth, creamy texture.
To maintain the perfect consistency, consider adding a cornstarch slurry if the soup thins out during reheating. Simply whisk together a small amount of cornstarch and water, then stir it into the heated soup until it reaches your desired thickness.
Remember, the key to delicious reheated broccoli cheese soup is to take it slow and steady. Ensure the soup is thoroughly heated through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F without compromising its creamy, velvety texture.
Serving Suggestions and Garnish Ideas
Make your broccoli cheese soup even better with these tasty serving ideas and garnishes. This creamy, cheesy soup is perfect for adding different toppings. Each spoonful will be a joy to eat.
Serve the soup in a crusty sourdough bread bowl for a classic look. The warm bread and savory soup together are amazing. You can also try it with fresh ciabatta, homemade croutons, or crispy bacon for a nice crunch.
Get creative with your garnishes. Sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese on top for more cheese. A bit of black pepper or some fresh herbs like chives or parsley can also add flavor and color.
This broccoli cheese soup is great as a main dish or a starter. Try out different toppings and garnishes to make every bowl special.
| Serving Suggestion | Garnish Idea |
|---|---|
| Sourdough Bread Bowl | Shredded Cheddar Cheese |
| Ciabatta Bread | Freshly Ground Black Pepper |
| Homemade Croutons | Chopped Chives |
| Crispy Bacon Bits | Grated Parmesan Cheese |
Share this comforting, cheesy soup with your loved ones. Don’t be afraid to try new toppings and garnishes to make each bowl unique.
Recipe Variations and Modifications
Vegetable soup recipes, like creamy broccoli cheese soup, are very versatile. You can change the dish to fit your diet or just to try new flavors. This makes it a cozy classic you can make your own.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegetarian version, replace dairy with plant-based milk and cheese. This keeps the soup creamy and tasty. If you’re low-carb, use cauliflower instead of flour for thickening.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to add more flavor? Try Worcestershire sauce or Tabasco. Use different cheeses like goat or Gruyère for unique tastes.
Seasonal Adjustments
Broccoli is the main ingredient, but you can add other veggies. In spring, add carrots for color and sweetness. Use frozen broccoli when it’s not in season.
Customizing this broccoli cheese soup makes it a low-carb lunch idea everyone will love. With a touch of creativity, you can customize it to suit your taste. It becomes a special dish that meets your tastes and dietary needs.
Conclusion
This easy homemade broccoli cheese soup recipe is a delightful and comforting meal. It can be made in just 30 minutes. The mix of fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings makes it a hit with families.
It’s perfect for chilly days or when you want a cozy meal. You can enjoy it in a warm bread bowl or with crusty bread. This versatile soup is a favorite for many.
This recipe is fantastic because it allows you to personalize it to your liking. You can change the cheese or add different vegetables. It’s also packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, making it good for you.
Make this broccoli cheese soup a part of your cooking routine. Enjoy the creamy texture and the comforting flavors. Each spoonful brings joy and satisfaction. Bon appétit!