Description
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm, comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days or as a hearty lunch. This delightful soup combines fresh broccoli with rich cheddar cheese, creating a velvety texture that is both satisfying and nourishing. In just a little over 30 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that’s bound to impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
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Step 2: Mixing
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.
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Step 3: Cooking
Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender (about 10 minutes).
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Step 4: Finishing
Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can blend it in batches using a regular blender. After blending, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is nicely melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Cheese Choice: Use a good quality sharp cheddar for a richer flavor. You can mix it with other cheeses like Gruyère for added depth.
- Broccoli Freshness: Fresh broccoli will yield the best results, but you can use frozen broccoli if needed. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Texture Adjustment: For a chunkier soup, reserve some broccoli florets before blending and stir them back in after.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or a dash of cayenne for a little kick!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes