Description
Savory Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients:
4 cups broccoli florets
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter
1 potato, peeled and diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups chicken stock
1 cup whole milk
2 tbsp cornstarch (optional for thickening)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Sauté garlic and butter in a pot. Add diced potato and chicken stock. Simmer for 8 minutes.
Add broccoli and cook until tender. Mash slightly with a fork for texture.
Mix cornstarch into milk and add to the soup. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
Serve warm with bread or croutons.
Who’s pairing this with fresh bread?
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#SavoryBroccoliSoup
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect, creamy soup every time.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced potato and 3 cups of chicken stock to the pot. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes until the potato is fork-tender.
- Add the 4 cups of broccoli florets to the pot. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and tender.
- Using a potato masher or the back of a fork, gently mash some of the potatoes and broccoli directly in the pot. This creates a thicker, heartier texture without needing to purée the entire soup.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk the 2 tbsp of cornstarch into the 1 cup of whole milk until completely smooth. Slowly pour this slurry into the soup while stirring constantly.
- Return the soup to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, stirring until fully melted before adding the next. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and comforting soup is a meal on its own, but these pairings elevate it:
- Freshly baked crusty bread, sourdough, or warm dinner rolls for dipping.
- Homemade garlic croutons or crispy bacon bits for added crunch.
- A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the soup’s richness.
- For a heartier meal, add shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked sausage when adding the cheese.
How-to Summary
Sauté garlic, add potatoes and stock to simmer. Cook broccoli until tender, then mash slightly for texture. Thicken with a cornstarch-milk slurry, then melt in cheddar cheese off the heat. Season and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, add the cheese just before serving. Store the base (without cheese) in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and stir in the cheese.
How can I make this soup vegetarian? Simply substitute the chicken stock with an equal amount of vegetable broth.
My soup is too thin/thick. How can I fix it? If too thin, create another cornstarch slurry or simmer uncovered to reduce. If too thick, stir in additional stock or milk a little at a time.
Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely. No need to thaw; add it directly to the pot. You may need to simmer for a minute or two longer.
Why is my cheese clumping or becoming stringy? Cheese can seize if the soup is too hot. Always melt cheese over low heat and add it gradually. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can also affect meltability; block cheese you shred yourself is best.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling the soup after adding cheese: This causes the cheese to separate and become oily. Always melt cheese over low heat.
- Over-processing the soup: Avoid using a blender. Mashing slightly preserves the perfect rustic texture with chunks of vegetable.
- Using pre-shredded cheese exclusively: While convenient, it doesn’t melt as smoothly. For ultimate creaminess, shred your own cheddar from a block.
- Not seasoning at the end: Cheese adds saltiness. Always do your final salt and pepper seasoning after the cheese has been incorporated.
Conclusion
This Savory Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the epitome of comfort food, striking a perfect balance between nutritious vegetables and rich, creamy cheese. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can easily create a restaurant-quality soup at home. It’s a versatile recipe that welcomes customization and is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget the fresh bread for the ultimate dipping experience!
