Cream of Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a delicious and comforting soup that is perfect for a cold winter day. It is made with a creamy broth, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and other vegetables. This soup is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences.
To make cream of broccoli cheddar soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth and broccoli to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. You can also use a regular blender, but be sure to work in batches.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and milk until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Benefits of cream of broccoli cheddar soup:
- Cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and calcium.
- The soup is also a good source of fiber, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a low-fat and low-calorie meal, making it a healthy choice for those who are watching their weight.
Tips:
- For a creamier soup, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup for a little bit of heat.
- Top the soup with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, or chopped green onions.
- Serve the soup with a side of bread or crackers for dipping.
- Cream of broccoli cheddar soup can be made ahead of time and reheated when you are ready to serve.
Conclusion:
Cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a delicious, comforting, and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. So next time you are looking for a warm and satisfying meal, give cream of broccoli cheddar soup a try.
Essential Aspects of Cream of Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a delicious and comforting soup that is perfect for a cold winter day. It is made with a creamy broth, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and other vegetables. This soup is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences.
- Creamy broth: The base of the soup is a creamy broth, which can be made with milk, cream, or even yogurt. The type of broth you use will affect the flavor and texture of the soup.
- Broccoli: Broccoli is the main vegetable in the soup. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, and it gives the soup a bright green color.
- Cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese is the other main ingredient in the soup. It gives the soup a rich and cheesy flavor.
- Other vegetables: In addition to broccoli, you can add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or onions. These vegetables will add flavor and texture to the soup.
- Seasonings: Seasonings are essential for adding flavor to the soup. Common seasonings for cream of broccoli cheddar soup include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Garnish: Once the soup is cooked, you can garnish it with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, or chopped green onions.
These are just a few of the essential aspects of cream of broccoli cheddar soup recipe. By understanding these aspects, you can create a delicious and comforting soup that is sure to please everyone at your table.
Creamy broth
The creamy broth is an essential component of cream of broccoli cheddar soup. It provides the soup with its rich and smooth texture. The type of broth you use will affect the flavor and texture of the soup. For example, using milk will result in a lighter and thinner broth, while using cream will result in a richer and thicker broth. Yogurt can also be used to make a creamy broth, and it will add a slight tanginess to the soup.
- Flavor: The type of broth you use will affect the flavor of the soup. Milk will produce a more subtle flavor, while cream will produce a richer flavor. Yogurt will add a slight tanginess to the soup.
- Texture: The type of broth you use will also affect the texture of the soup. Milk will produce a thinner broth, while cream will produce a thicker broth. Yogurt will produce a broth that is somewhere in between.
- Health benefits: The type of broth you use can also affect the health benefits of the soup. Milk is a good source of calcium, while cream is a good source of fat. Yogurt is a good source of protein and probiotics.
When choosing a broth for your cream of broccoli cheddar soup, it is important to consider the flavor, texture, and health benefits that you want. Once you have chosen a broth, you can then add other ingredients, such as broccoli, cheddar cheese, and seasonings, to create a delicious and comforting soup.
Broccoli
Broccoli is an essential ingredient in cream of broccoli cheddar soup. It gives the soup its characteristic bright green color and provides a variety of nutrients. Broccoli is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron, calcium, and potassium. It is also a good source of fiber.
The nutrients in broccoli provide a number of health benefits. Vitamin A is important for vision and immune function. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage. Vitamin K is important for blood clotting and bone health. Iron is essential for red blood cell production. Calcium is important for bone health. Potassium is important for regulating blood pressure and heart function.
In addition to its nutritional value, broccoli also adds a unique flavor and texture to cream of broccoli cheddar soup. The florets are tender and slightly crunchy, and they add a pop of color to the soup. The stalks are also edible and can be added to the soup for extra flavor and texture.
Overall, broccoli is an important ingredient in cream of broccoli cheddar soup. It provides a variety of nutrients, adds a unique flavor and texture, and gives the soup its characteristic bright green color.
Cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese is an essential ingredient in cream of broccoli cheddar soup. It gives the soup its characteristic rich and cheesy flavor. Cheddar cheese is a hard, yellow cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a sharp, nutty flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in the soup.
The flavor of cheddar cheese comes from the bacteria that are used to make it. These bacteria produce lactic acid, which gives cheddar cheese its characteristic tangy flavor. The longer the cheese is aged, the more pronounced the flavor becomes.
In addition to its flavor, cheddar cheese also adds a creamy texture to the soup. When the cheese is melted, it creates a smooth and velvety broth. This broth coats the other ingredients in the soup and gives it a rich and satisfying flavor.
Cheddar cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a popular topping for burgers, sandwiches, and salads. It can also be used in grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and other casseroles.
If you are looking for a delicious and comforting soup, cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a great option. The combination of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and other ingredients creates a soup that is both flavorful and satisfying.
Other vegetables
In addition to broccoli, other vegetables that can be added to cream of broccoli cheddar soup include carrots, celery, and onions. These vegetables add flavor and texture to the soup, and they also provide additional nutrients.
Carrots are a good source of vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function. Celery is a good source of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage. Onions are a good source of quercetin, which is an antioxidant that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
When adding other vegetables to cream of broccoli cheddar soup, it is important to consider the flavor and texture of the vegetables. Carrots and celery have a relatively mild flavor, so they will not overpower the flavor of the broccoli and cheddar cheese. Onions have a stronger flavor, so they should be used in moderation. If you are using a lot of onions, you may want to saut them before adding them to the soup to mellow their flavor.
Adding other vegetables to cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a great way to increase the nutritional value and flavor of the soup. It is also a great way to use up leftover vegetables. So next time you are making cream of broccoli cheddar soup, don’t be afraid to add some other vegetables to the pot.
Here are some tips for adding other vegetables to cream of broccoli cheddar soup:
- Use a variety of vegetables to add flavor and texture to the soup.
- Consider the flavor and texture of the vegetables when adding them to the soup.
- Saut onions before adding them to the soup to mellow their flavor.
- Add vegetables to the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking so that they do not overcook.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and nutritious cream of broccoli cheddar soup that the whole family will enjoy.
Seasonings
Seasonings are an essential part of any soup recipe, and cream of broccoli cheddar soup is no exception. The right seasonings can elevate the flavor of the soup and make it a truly delicious and satisfying meal. Common seasonings for cream of broccoli cheddar soup include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. These seasonings work together to create a flavorful broth that complements the broccoli and cheddar cheese. Salt enhances the flavor of all the other ingredients, while pepper adds a bit of spice. Garlic powder and onion powder add a savory depth of flavor that rounds out the soup. In addition to these basic seasonings, you can also add other seasonings to your cream of broccoli cheddar soup to taste. Some popular options include paprika, cayenne pepper, and dried oregano. You can also add a bay leaf to the soup pot for extra flavor. When adding seasonings to your soup, it is important to start with a small amount and then add more to taste. This will help you avoid over-seasoning the soup. You can always add more seasonings, but it is difficult to remove them once they have been added. Once you have added your seasonings, simmer the soup for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This will result in a more flavorful and delicious soup.
Here are some tips for seasoning cream of broccoli cheddar soup:
- Start with a small amount of seasonings and then add more to taste.
- Simmer the soup for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings to find the perfect combination for your taste.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and flavorful cream of broccoli cheddar soup that your family and friends will love.
Garnish
Garnishing is the final touch that can elevate a bowl of cream of broccoli cheddar soup from good to great. A well-chosen garnish can enhance the soup’s flavor, texture, and appearance.
Shredded cheddar cheese is a classic garnish for cream of broccoli cheddar soup. It adds a rich, cheesy flavor and a pop of color. Crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor and a crispy texture. Chopped green onions add a fresh, herbaceous flavor and a bright green color.
Other popular garnishes for cream of broccoli cheddar soup include:
- Sour cream
- Chives
- Croutons
- Oyster crackers
When choosing a garnish for your cream of broccoli cheddar soup, consider the flavors and textures that you want to add to the soup. You can also use the garnish to create a visual contrast, such as using green onions to add a pop of color to a bowl of soup that is mostly beige.
No matter what garnish you choose, be sure to add it to the soup just before serving. This will help to ensure that the garnish stays fresh and flavorful.
Garnishing your cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a simple way to make it more delicious and visually appealing. So next time you make a batch of this classic soup, don’t forget to add a garnish to finish it off.
Cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a classic soup recipe that is both delicious and comforting. It is made with a creamy broth, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and other vegetables. This soup is a popular choice for a quick and easy meal, and it can be tailored to your own taste preferences.
Cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and calcium. It is also a good source of fiber, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied. This soup is also a low-fat and low-calorie meal, making it a healthy choice for those who are watching their weight.
The origins of cream of broccoli cheddar soup are unclear, but it is thought to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The soup quickly became popular, and it is now a staple of many American households. Cream of broccoli cheddar soup is often served as a main course, but it can also be served as an appetizer or side dish.
There are many different ways to make cream of broccoli cheddar soup. Some recipes call for using fresh broccoli, while others call for using frozen broccoli. Some recipes also call for using a roux to thicken the soup, while others use a cornstarch slurry. No matter which method you choose, you are sure to end up with a delicious and comforting bowl of soup.
FAQs about Cream of Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a classic soup recipe that is both delicious and comforting. It is made with a creamy broth, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and other vegetables. This soup is a popular choice for a quick and easy meal, and it can be tailored to your own taste preferences.
Question 1: What are the origins of cream of broccoli cheddar soup?
Answer: The origins of cream of broccoli cheddar soup are unclear, but it is thought to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century.
Question 2: What are the health benefits of cream of broccoli cheddar soup?
Answer: Cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and calcium. It is also a good source of fiber, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied. This soup is also a low-fat and low-calorie meal, making it a healthy choice for those who are watching their weight.
Question 3: How can I make cream of broccoli cheddar soup healthier?
Answer: There are many ways to make cream of broccoli cheddar soup healthier. Some tips include using low-fat milk or broth, using less cheese, and adding more vegetables.
Question 4: What are some tips for making cream of broccoli cheddar soup?
Answer: Some tips for making cream of broccoli cheddar soup include using fresh broccoli, using a roux to thicken the soup, and simmering the soup for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Question 5: What are some common variations on cream of broccoli cheddar soup?
Answer: Some common variations on cream of broccoli cheddar soup include adding other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or onions; using different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gruyere; and adding spices, such as paprika or cayenne pepper.
Question 6: What are some ways to serve cream of broccoli cheddar soup?
Answer: Cream of broccoli cheddar soup can be served as a main course, an appetizer, or a side dish. It can also be served with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, or chopped green onions.
Summary: Cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a delicious and comforting soup that is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, and it can be made healthier by using low-fat milk or broth, using less cheese, and adding more vegetables.
Next: Tips for making the perfect cream of broccoli cheddar soup
Conclusion
Cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a delicious and comforting soup that is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, and it can be made healthier by using low-fat milk or broth, using less cheese, and adding more vegetables.
Whether you are looking for a quick and easy meal or a comforting soup to warm you up on a cold day, cream of broccoli cheddar soup is a great choice. So next time you are looking for a delicious and satisfying soup, give cream of broccoli cheddar soup a try.