Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up with a bowl of Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a creamy and delicious blend of broccoli and cheddar cheese that will satisfy your cravings.
This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate cozy meal. Loaded with fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, it’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a bit of comfort food. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and cheesy goodness that warms the soul
- Packed with nutritious broccoli for a healthy twist
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
The Benefits of Broccoli
Broccoli is not just a delicious vegetable; it's also a powerhouse of nutrition. Rich in vitamins C and K, broccoli boosts your immune system and supports bone health. Additionally, it's packed with fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. By incorporating broccoli into your diet, you can enjoy not only the comforting flavors of this soup but also the numerous health benefits it offers.
This vibrant green vegetable is also known for its antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. Broccoli contains sulforaphane, a compound that has been studied for its potential anti-cancer effects. Eating more broccoli can be a simple yet effective way to enhance your overall wellness while indulging in a creamy and satisfying soup.
Cheddar Cheese: A Flavorful Addition
Cheddar cheese is a beloved ingredient in many dishes, and for good reason. Its sharp and tangy flavor pairs wonderfully with the mild taste of broccoli, creating a harmonious blend in this soup. Beyond its taste, cheddar is also a good source of protein and calcium, essential for strong bones and muscles. By using quality cheddar cheese in your Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also adding nutritional value.
When melted into the soup, cheddar cheese transforms the broth into a creamy, indulgent experience. The richness of the cheese complements the texture of the pureed vegetables, making each spoonful a delightful treat. If you're a cheese lover, feel free to experiment with different varieties, such as sharp or aged cheddar, to find your perfect flavor profile.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for various occasions. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy meal on a chilly day, or a hearty dish to serve guests, this soup fits the bill. Its simplicity allows you to whip it up in no time, while the comforting flavors ensure everyone will be coming back for seconds.
Additionally, this soup can be easily customized to suit your personal preferences. Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach, or even toss in some cooked chicken for added protein. This adaptability makes it a staple recipe that you can return to time and again, ensuring that it never gets boring.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the diced potatoes, broccoli florets, and shredded carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes.
Add the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Blend and Add Cream
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup with a slice of bread or a side salad!
Storage Tips
Storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying your Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup for days to come. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
If you want to keep the soup for a longer period, consider freezing it. Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup experience, consider pairing it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. A slice of homemade sourdough or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. Alternatively, a light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
For added flair, you can also top your soup with garnishes like croutons, a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat, or a drizzle of olive oil. These little touches enhance both the presentation and flavor, making your soup not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Healthier Alternatives
If you're looking to lighten up your Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup, there are several simple substitutions you can make without sacrificing flavor. Consider using low-fat milk or a plant-based milk alternative instead of heavy cream. This will reduce the calorie count while still providing a creamy texture.
You can also opt for reduced-fat cheese or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor with fewer calories. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables and using a lower-sodium vegetable broth can enhance the nutritional profile of the soup, making it a guilt-free indulgence that you can feel good about serving to your family.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
→ What can I add for extra flavor?
You can add garlic, thyme, or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of kick!
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth, this soup is gluten-free.
→ Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works great in this recipe.
Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Warm up with a bowl of Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a creamy and delicious blend of broccoli and cheddar cheese that will satisfy your cravings.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the diced potatoes, broccoli florets, and shredded carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 10g