Description
A comforting and creamy Loaded Broccoli Cheddar Soup packed with vibrant broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and aromatic sautéed onions and garlic, making it the perfect family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 sweet yellow or white onion, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream or whole milk
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Wash and chop broccoli into small florets, mince onion and garlic, and shred cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil or melt butter. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Build the Base: Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in chopped broccoli and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
- Incorporate Creaminess: Reduce heat slightly and stir in cream or milk. For a velvety texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to desired consistency.
- Melt the Cheese: Gradually stir in shredded cheddar, ensuring it melts smoothly. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or nutmeg if necessary.
- Final Touches: Ladle soup into bowls and top with extra cheese, toasted croutons, or crispy bacon bits, if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Adjust seasoning to taste. Play with substitutions, such as using frozen broccoli or different cheese varieties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, comfort food, creamy soup, family recipe, vegetarian soup