Warm and comforting, this homemade broccoli cheese soup is a delicious and hearty dish that's perfect for chilly days. Made with fresh broccoli, melted cheddar cheese, and savory seasonings, it's a wholesome meal on its own or can be served with crusty bread for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Get ready to indulge in this rich and creamy soup that will warm your heart and please your taste buds!
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Add the flour to the pot and stir well to coat the vegetables. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
- Using an immersion blender or regular blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Return the soup to the pot if using a regular blender.
- Pour in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. If the soup is too thick, add more milk or broth to thin it out.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or a sprinkle of additional shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Interesting Facts
Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
Cheese contains protein and calcium, making this soup a good source of these nutrients.
This recipe can be easily customized by adding other vegetables like cauliflower or potatoes.
Leftover broccoli cheese soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for future meals.