Absolutely! Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for broccoli cheddar soup:
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 heads)
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: additional shredded cheddar, croutons, or chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Cut the broccoli into small florets. You can also peel and dice the broccoli stems for use in the soup if desired.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Make the Soup Base:
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook the flour.
- Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add Broccoli and Simmer:
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the Soup (Optional):
- At this point, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamier texture. Alternatively, leave it chunky if preferred.
- Add Cheese and Cream:
- Stir in the half-and-half or whole milk and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and incorporates into the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Ladle the broccoli cheddar soup into bowls.
- Optionally, garnish with additional shredded cheddar, croutons, or chopped fresh parsley.
This broccoli cheddar soup is creamy, comforting, and perfect for a cozy meal. It pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad. Enjoy!
