Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Velvety, cheesy, and filled with the goodness of fresh broccoli, this soup is a bowl of pure coziness. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a soul-warming dish, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a hearty classic that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into florets
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Chopped chives or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously to create a roux. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown.
- Add Broth and Milk:
- Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and milk. Ensure there are no lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens.
- Cook Broccoli:
- Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot. Simmer until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
- Blend or Leave Chunky:
- At this point, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamier texture, or leave it chunky for a heartier feel.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted into the soup. This adds a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Season to Perfection:
- Season the soup with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle warmth.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions if desired.
Tips:
- For added texture, reserve a handful of broccoli florets before blending and add them back into the soup.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique flavor profile.
- Freeze individual portions for convenient reheating on busy days.
Conclusion:
Embrace the soothing warmth of this homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s brimming with flavor and wholesome ingredients. Whether you savor it as a starter or make it the main attraction, this creamy and cheesy creation is a comforting delight that transforms ordinary evenings into cozy moments of culinary bliss. Enjoy the rich taste of homemade goodness in every spoonful.