Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup

Name: Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh); 3 cups vegetable broth (low sodium); 2 cups milk (whole or 2%); 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated); 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

45 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Warm up with this creamy broccoli cheese soup, a comforting bowl of cheesy goodness that's easy to make in under an hour.

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Broccoli cheese soup is a classic comfort dish that combines the earthy taste of broccoli with the rich, creamy texture of melted cheese. This version aims to deliver a velvety smooth soup that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. By using fresh ingredients and a few simple techniques, you can create a soup that's perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. The balance of flavours in this dish will make it a favourite among both kids and adults alike.

Instructions

Sauté onions and garlic

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Pro tip: Ensure the garlic doesn't burn by stirring constantly.

Cook broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are bright green and slightly tender.

Add broth and simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth, cover, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

Pro tip: For a richer flavour, use homemade vegetable broth.

Blend the soup

Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender.

Pro tip: Be cautious when blending hot liquids; allow steam to escape.

Add milk and cheese

Return the pot to low heat, stir in the milk, and gradually add the grated cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.

Pro tip: Grate cheese yourself for a smoother melt.

Season and thicken

Season the soup with salt and black pepper. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water and add to the soup to thicken.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh broccoli for the best flavour and texture.
Grate your own cheese for a smoother melt.
Simmer gently to avoid curdling the cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in broccoli cheese soup?

This broccoli cheese soup contains approximately 320 calories per serving.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Simply adjust the cooking time to ensure they are tender before blending.

How do I prevent the cheese from curdling?

Add the cheese gradually over low heat and stir constantly to prevent curdling.

Is broccoli cheese soup healthy?

Broccoli cheese soup can be part of a balanced diet, offering nutrients from the broccoli and protein from the cheese, though it is higher in fat.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy broccoli cheese soup with a crusty bread for dipping or a side salad for a complete meal. It's also delicious when paired with a light, crisp white wine. If you have leftovers, the soup can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain its creamy texture.