Broccoli Cheese Soup

There’s nothing quite like a cozy bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup to warm your heart and soul, especially on a chilly winter’s evening. I can still remember the first time I tasted this delightful dish. It was a rainy Sunday, and I was snuggled up on the couch, feeling a bit under the weather. My mom entered the room with a steaming bowl of her famous soup, and as soon as the aroma filled the air, I felt instantly better. The creamy texture, the rich flavors of melted cheese, and the freshness of the broccoli made every spoonful a comforting hug from the inside. As I sipped, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the simple joys of homemade cooking.

Over the years, I’ve dedicated myself to perfecting my own version of this classic recipe. There’s just something magical about crafting a warm bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup from scratch. It’s a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy family gathering. The combination of Fontina and Cheddar cheeses creates a rich, smooth texture that pairs beautifully with the vibrant green of the broccoli. I often find myself sneaking in a few extra bites of broccoli just to savor that delightful balance of flavors.

This soup is one of those dishes that brings people together. Whether it’s served alongside a fresh loaf of bread or simply enjoyed on its own, it never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face. So grab your Dutch oven, and let’s dive into making a bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup that will warm not just your stomach, but your heart as well!

Ingredient List for Broccoli Cheese Soup

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is essential for crafting the perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup. Each component plays a vital role in creating the rich flavor and velvety texture that make this soup so beloved. With the complementary flavors of cheese and the freshness of vegetables, this soup is a testament to the beauty of simple cooking.

• 4 tablespoons butter – A rich base that adds creaminess and flavor.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Provides a savory depth to the soup.
• 2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced – Adds color and natural sweetness.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – Helps to thicken the soup, giving it that delightful creamy consistency.
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth – The essential liquid that ties everything together, imparting flavor.
• 2 cups half-and-half – Adds creaminess, making the soup luxurious.
• 8 cups chopped broccoli, small bite-sized pieces – The star of the dish, adding freshness and nutrition.
• 1 (8-ounce) block Fontina cheese, shredded – Melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor profile.
• 1 (8-ounce) block white Cheddar cheese, shredded – Offers a sharpness that complements the creaminess.
• 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature – Enhances the creaminess and tanginess of the soup.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a bit of warmth and spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses a delightful aroma and flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – For those who enjoy a subtle kick of heat.

How to Assemble Broccoli Cheese Soup

Assembling your Broccoli Cheese Soup is an enjoyable experience. The combination of aromas and textures as you cook is truly delightful. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your perfect pot of soup!

1. In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the onion and carrots. Sauté until they soften, about five minutes. You’ll notice that the onion becomes translucent, and the carrots gain a beautiful color.
2. Next, sprinkle the flour over the onion and carrot mixture, stirring well to combine. Allow it to cook and stir for two minutes; this will help eliminate any raw flour taste and create a nice roux.
3. Gradually add the chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Then, add the half-and-half and bring the mixture to a simmer. You’ll notice that it starts to thicken slightly.
4. Once simmering, add the broccoli and stir it into the mixture. Allow it to simmer for about twenty minutes, stirring occasionally. The broccoli should turn bright green and be tender yet still vibrant.
5. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a potato masher to break down some of the broccoli pieces to your desired consistency. Just be careful not to overdo it!
6. Turn the heat to low and add the shredded Fontina and Cheddar cheeses. Stir until completely melted. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy, cheesy goodness.
7. Next, add the cream cheese in small chunks, whisking well to combine. You’ll want it to melt into the soup, giving it a rich and velvety texture. If you notice any lumps, keep whisking until smooth.
8. Finally, stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. The flavors should be well balanced, with just a hint of spice from the red pepper flakes.
9. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors together beautifully. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks about Broccoli Cheese Soup

When it comes to perfecting your Broccoli Cheese Soup, here are some handy tips to keep in mind. These will help you achieve the best results every time.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary.
• Freezing: You can freeze this soup! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months.
• Pairing: This soup pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. It also works well with sandwiches—grilled cheese is a classic!
• Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Garnishing: Top your soup with some extra shredded cheese or croutons for added texture and visual appeal.

What Complements This Broccoli Cheese Soup

Serving your Broccoli Cheese Soup can be just as delightful as making it. Here are some ideas on what to serve alongside this comforting dish.

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread complements the creamy texture of the soup beautifully. It’s perfect for dipping!
• Light Salad: Pair with a light salad featuring greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
• Sandwiches: Grilled cheese or any kind of hearty sandwich makes for a fulfilling meal when served with soup.
• Occasions: This soup is great for cozy family dinners, chilly winter afternoons, or even as a starter for holiday gatherings.
• Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week. Store in individual portions for convenience.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting dish that perfectly combines creamy textures with wholesome ingredients. It’s an easy recipe to make, perfect for gathering friends or family around the dinner table. I encourage you to give it a try tonight; you won’t be disappointed. Not only will you enjoy a bowl of warmth, but you’ll also create a new favorite!

Broccoli Cheese Soup

The ultimate comfort food, this Broccoli Cheese Soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh flavors. Perfect for a chilly evening, this easy weeknight dinner will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight for a deliciously cozy experience!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 27 minutes mins

Total Time 37 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Soups

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 tablespoons Butter
• 1 medium Onion, diced
• 2 medium Carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
• 4 cups Chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 2 cups Half-and-half
• 8 cups Chopped broccoli, small bite-sized pieces
• 8 ounces Fontina cheese, shredded
• 8 ounces White Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 ounces Cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes

Equipment

• Dutch Oven

Method

 

1. In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and carrots and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle flour over onion/carrot mixture. Cook and stir for 2 minutes.
3. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly. Add half-and-half. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add broccoli and stir into mixture. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If desired, use a potato masher to break broccoli up some.
5. Turn heat to low. Add shredded cheeses. Stir until melted. Add cream cheese in small chunks and whisk well to combine.
6. Stir in salt, peppers, and garlic powder.
7. Let simmer for a few minutes and serve.

Notes

• Tip 1: To make this soup spicy, double the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Tip 2: Use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.
• Tip 3: Nutritional info is provided as an estimate only and will vary based on brands of products used.

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Meet Margot Vance

Founding Savor Feasts was my way of celebrating the art of generous cooking. I believe that food should be abundant, flavorful, and memorable. I personally cook, test, and photograph our recipes to ensure they bring a sense of occasion to your table, whether it is a simple dinner or a grand holiday celebration.