There’s something about a warm bowl of cozy broccoli cheese soup that feels like a hug from the inside. Picture this: a creamy, cheesy concoction filled with vibrant green broccoli florets, all simmering together to create an aroma that dances through the air and makes your taste buds do a little happy dance. Panera Bread-style broccoli cheese soup This isn’t just soup; it’s a bowl of comfort, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little extra TLC.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What cheese works best in Cozy Broccoli Cheese Soup?
- Can I make this soup vegan-friendly?
- How can I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Growing up, my grandma would whip up her famous cozy broccoli cheese soup whenever anyone was feeling under the weather. The moment I took that first spoonful, I felt my worries melt away like butter in a hot skillet. crockpot potato broccoli cheddar soup This soup has become my go-to dish for everything from snowy nights to impromptu gatherings. kielbasa potato soup for chilly nights So grab your ladle, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to warm your heart and fill your belly. For more inspiration, check out this creamy crockpot broccoli cheddar soup recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This cozy broccoli cheese soup is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It bursts with flavors that blend creamy and cheesy goodness with fresh greens. The inviting colors and rich textures make it visually appealing for any table setting. Versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or a hearty main dish, it’s sure to please everyone! [/info_box]
I still remember my friend’s face when she tasted this soup for the first time; pure bliss!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for their vibrant color and crisp texture; they should feel firm when squeezed.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for high-quality sharp cheddar for that rich, deep flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop it finely for even cooking and enhanced flavor.
Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for a pungent kick; sauté them until fragrant before adding other ingredients.
Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium vegetable broth keeps the flavors balanced; you can substitute chicken broth if preferred.
Heavy Cream: For creaminess and richness, heavy cream elevates the soup’s texture to velvety perfection.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness; use it to sauté vegetables at the beginning of the cooking process.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings elevate all flavors; adjust to taste before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing Aromatics: Begin by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, stirring constantly until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma.
Add Broccoli Florets: Toss in chopped broccoli florets along with salt and pepper. Sauté them briefly until they start turning bright green, about 3 minutes.
Pour in Broth: Carefully add vegetable broth to cover the vegetables completely. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until broccoli is tender but not mushy.
Add Creaminess Factor: Slowly stir in heavy cream while allowing the mixture to return to a gentle simmer. The combination of creaminess and warmth will make your kitchen smell divine.
Melt in Cheese**: Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese while stirring continuously until melted completely. The result should be a thick, creamy mixture that’s utterly enticing.
Blend Until Smooth (Optional): For an ultra-creamy texture, use an immersion blender right in the pot or transfer small batches to a standing blender until smooth. Just be cautious—it’s hot!
Serve immediately in bowls topped with extra cheese or croutons if desired. Your cozy broccoli cheese soup is ready to enjoy—a bowl of happiness awaits you!
And there you have it—a heartwarming bowl of cozy broccoli cheese soup that’s simple yet packed with flavor! Enjoy every spoonful as you revel in its comforting embrace while reminiscing about those cherished moments shared around the dinner table.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Cozy Broccoli Cheese Soup is not just comforting; it’s a hug in a bowl. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness will warm you from the inside out, making any dreary day brighter. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic for flavor, then add broccoli and broth. Let it simmer before blending until smooth, and finally stir in cheese for that gooey richness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the broccoli for cauliflower or add some cooked chicken for a heartier meal. Adding spices like nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile too!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain creaminess.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To avoid a lumpy texture, blend the soup until completely smooth. Use fresh broccoli for better flavor and nutrition. For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end. [/info_box]
The first time I made Cozy Broccoli Cheese Soup, my friends claimed it was like “liquid happiness.” Now every gathering insists on this recipe as the star of the show. cheesy chicken parm soup. You might also enjoy this cheesy chicken parm soup recipe.
FAQ
What cheese works best in Cozy Broccoli Cheese Soup?
Sharp cheddar cheese provides great flavor and melts beautifully into the soup.
Can I make this soup vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based milk instead of cream.
How can I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?
Mix a cornstarch slurry or add more blended broccoli to achieve desired thickness.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cozy Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in a heartwarming bowl of Cozy Broccoli Cheese Soup, a creamy and cheesy delight that embraces you from the inside out. Loaded with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave comfort food. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Stir in broccoli florets, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 3 minutes until bright green.
- Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Slowly add heavy cream while stirring; let it return to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
- For an ultra-smooth texture, blend the soup using an immersion blender or stand blender (be cautious as it's hot).
- Serve immediately topped with extra cheese or croutons if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
