If you’re a fan of comfort food, look no further! Our Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a hearty, creamy delight that will warm your soul on a chilly day. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a comforting bowl of nostalgia and warmth. This classic soup combines the goodness of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of delightful seasonings. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or any time you’re craving something cozy and delicious.
The History of Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli Cheddar Soup, often referred to as Cheddar Broccoli Soup, has become a staple in American cuisine. Its roots can be traced back to early 1980s when it was first served at cafes and diners. This soup quickly gained popularity, making its way to restaurant menus across the country. The combination of rich cheddar cheese and wholesome broccoli makes for an irresistible duo that has stood the test of time.
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Gather the following ingredients to create this scrumptious Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
1. Yellow Onion
- 1/2 cup of yellow onion, chopped
2. Butter
- 4 tablespoons of butter
3. Flour
- 5 tablespoons of flour
4. Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
5. Vegetable Broth
- 3 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth
6. Broccoli
- 3 cups of broccoli, chopped
7. Cheddar Cheese
- 3 cups of cheddar cheese, shredded
8. Cream
- 1 cup of heavy cream
9. Milk
- 1 cup of milk
10. Carrots
- 1 cup of carrots, grated (approximately 2 carrots)
11. Salt
- 3 teaspoons of salt (reduce if using regular vegetable broth)
12. Paprika
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
13. Pepper
- 1 teaspoon of pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to prepare a mouthwatering Broccoli Cheddar Soup that will have everyone asking for seconds.
1. Sautéing the Onion
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped yellow onion. Sauté the onion until it turns translucent and develops a slight golden color. This will take approximately 5-7 minutes.
2. Preparing the Roux
After sautéing the onions, sprinkle the flour over them. Stir continuously to form a roux, a thick paste. This will take another 2-3 minutes. The roux will act as a thickening agent for our soup.
3. Adding the Broth
Gradually pour in the low-sodium vegetable broth while stirring constantly. This will create a smooth base for the soup and help dissolve the roux completely. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Adding the Broccoli and Carrots
Now it’s time to add the star of the show – the broccoli! Gently add the chopped broccoli and grated carrots into the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmering the Soup
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes. During this time, the broccoli and carrots will become tender, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
6. Incorporating the Cheddar
Once the vegetables are tender, it’s time to introduce the sharp cheddar cheese. Gradually add the shredded cheddar into the soup, stirring continuously until it melts and blends with the other ingredients. This is where the magic happens, as the cheese lends its creamy richness to the soup.
7. Cream and Milk
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine them with the rest of the ingredients. This will further enhance the creaminess and texture of the soup.
8. Seasoning
Add the salt, paprika, and pepper, carefully adjusting the seasoning to your taste. The spices will add depth and flavor to your soup.
9. Final Simmer
Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, ensuring that all the flavors meld together beautifully. Taste the soup and make any final seasoning adjustments as needed.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Your homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup is ready to be served! Ladle it into bowls, and consider garnishing with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or a dash of paprika for that finishing touch. Serve it with some warm crusty bread, and enjoy the deliciousness.
This hearty and creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup will surely satisfy your cravings for a comforting meal. Whether it’s a cozy winter night or a rainy day, this recipe will be your go-to choice for a heartwarming dish. So, don’t wait; give it a try and relish the goodness of homemade soup.
And there you have it, a comprehensive recipe for Broccoli Cheddar Soup that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also become a go-to dish for your family and friends.