Andy Montoya
Broccoli cheddar soup is a popular dish, with many recipes available online. It is often described as a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish, perfect for cold weather. While the soup does feature cheese as a prominent ingredient, it typically also includes other ingredients such as broccoli, onions, garlic, butter, flour, milk, and various seasonings. The cheese used is commonly cheddar, but other varieties such as American, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack can also be used. The soup is often served with croutons, bacon bits, or bread for dunking. Some people also add spices like smoked paprika, mustard powder, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main ingredients | Broccoli, cheddar cheese, butter, flour, milk, vegetable broth, carrot, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper |
| Optional ingredients | Onion, garlic, celery, chicken broth, cooking cream, croutons, bacon bits, mustard powder, cayenne pepper, nutmeg, and smoked paprika |
| Consistency | Chunky, smooth, or pureed |
| Taste | Creamy, rich, tangy, cheesy, and loaded with tender veggies |
| Calories | 417 per serving |
| Time to make | 30 minutes to 1 hour |
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What You'll Learn
Broccoli cheddar soup recipes
Broccoli cheddar soup is a creamy, rich, and indulgent comfort food. It is a simple recipe that can be made in under 30 minutes and is a great way to get some extra veggies into your diet. The soup is made with a base of butter, flour, and milk, with broccoli and cheddar cheese as the stars of the show.
To make this soup, you will first need to melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add in some onion, salt, and pepper, and cook until the onion is softened, which should take around 5 minutes. Next, add some garlic and cook for another minute before sprinkling in the flour. Whisk the mixture continuously for 1-2 minutes, or until the flour turns golden.
Now it's time to slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. You can use whole milk for a traditional, thick soup, or opt for unsweetened almond milk for a slightly thinner but still delicious option. Once the milk is incorporated, add your choice of vegetable or chicken broth, along with some carrot, and dijon mustard for a tangy kick.
Stir everything together and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. This is also a great time to grate your cheese if you haven't already. Finally, gradually add the cheese, stirring continuously, until all the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve with some crusty bread or homemade croutons on the side.
For an extra-indulgent treat, serve the soup in a bread bowl. Simply hollow out a sourdough loaf and ladle the soup into the bowl. The soup-soaked bread is sure to be a hit!
Some people also like to add extra vegetables, such as celery, or even potatoes, to their soup. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a mix of several varieties.
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Broccoli and cheese alternatives
Broccoli and cheese is a classic combination that can be prepared in a variety of ways, including soups, casseroles, and sides. While cheddar is a popular choice for this pairing, there are several alternatives to consider if you want to mix things up or cater to specific dietary needs.
One option is to experiment with different types of cheese. For a milder flavour, Monterey Jack or a mix of several cheeses can be used. If you're feeling adventurous, try pepper jack, goat cheese, or gruyère for a more distinct flavour profile. You can also create a vegan version of broccoli and cheese by substituting the cheese with roasted garlic and spiced almond cream. Simply roast garlic cloves and almonds with cumin powder, blend them into a powder, and combine with steamed broccoli florets and vegetable stock for a creamy and flavourful soup.
In addition to cheese alternatives, you can also explore different cooking methods and serving styles for broccoli and cheese. For a quick and easy side dish, steam or stir-fry the broccoli and top it with a homemade cheese sauce made from milk, cornstarch, and your choice of cheese. You can also bake broccoli and cheese casserole, creating a warm and bubbly blend perfect for cosy dinners. Alternatively, serve the broccoli and cheese in a bread bowl or alongside ciabatta bread for dunking.
When it comes to ingredients, you can add carrots, celery, or cauliflower to the mix, providing extra nutrients and a unique twist. If you're feeling indulgent, include some crispy bacon bits or breaded pork chops on the side. Lastly, while fresh broccoli is ideal, you can also use frozen broccoli florets in your recipes without sacrificing taste or quality.
With these alternatives, you can customise your broccoli and cheese experience to suit your preferences, dietary needs, and culinary skills. Whether it's a comforting soup, a cheesy casserole, or a quick side dish, there are endless ways to enjoy this versatile combination.
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Broccoli cheddar soup toppings
Broccoli cheddar soup is a rich, creamy, and flavorful comfort food. While the soup itself is delicious, there are a variety of toppings that can be added to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some ideas for toppings to elevate your bowl of broccoli cheddar soup:
Croutons
Croutons are a popular choice for adding texture and crunch to the soup. You can make them at home or buy them from a store. They can be plain or seasoned with different flavors like mustard or black pepper.
Cheese
Extra grated cheddar cheese is a great way to make the soup even cheesier and more indulgent. You can also sprinkle on other types of cheese, like feta, for added flavor and texture.
Vegetables
Chopped green onions or thinly sliced chives can add a fresh onion flavor to the soup. You can also add a dash of color and sweetness with shredded carrots. If you're looking for a spicy kick, try adding some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Dairy
A dollop of sour cream can add a tangy twist to the soup. You can also try swirling in some heavy cream or whole milk to make the soup even richer and creamier.
Spices and Condiments
A smoky paprika-garlic drizzle can be made by cooking garlic in olive oil with thyme, smoked paprika, and salt, and then drizzling it on top of the soup. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice for some extra acidity.
Meats
For a heartier meal, try topping the soup with crispy bacon bits or serving it with a side of melted cheese on toast.
Others
For a more unique flavor, try adding a swirl of truffle oil or some cilantro chutney. You can also experiment with different types of broth or vegetable stock to change up the soup's flavor.
Feel free to get creative and combine different toppings to find your favorite combination!
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Broccoli cheddar soup consistency
Broccoli cheddar soup is a popular comfort food, often served in a bread bowl or with crusty bread for dipping. It is a creamy, rich, and flavorful soup with a cheesy base and tender vegetables.
The consistency of broccoli cheddar soup is key to its appeal, and it should be thick, smooth, and velvety. The soup should be thick enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon, but it should still have a thinner, 'soupy' texture. This consistency is achieved through a combination of ingredients and techniques.
Firstly, a roux is created by cooking butter and flour together, which thickens the soup. Milk is then added to perfect the creamy texture. While whole milk is traditional, alternatives such as almond milk or fat-free milk can be used to achieve a similar consistency while keeping the soup lighter and lower in fat. The milk is whisked continuously to prevent lumps from forming and to evenly disperse the flour and butter.
The addition of cheese is another crucial step in achieving the desired consistency. Sharp cheddar cheese is commonly used for its bold, tangy flavor, and it is important to grate the cheese yourself to ensure it melts smoothly into the soup. The cheese should be added gradually in small handfuls, with the pot over very low heat, to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
Finally, the soup is seasoned with salt and pepper to taste, and it may be served with additional shredded cheese on top. This combination of ingredients and techniques results in a broccoli cheddar soup with a thick, smooth, and velvety consistency that is beloved by many.
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Broccoli cheddar soup calories
Broccoli cheddar soup is a rich and creamy comfort food. While the calorie count of this indulgent dish varies depending on the ingredients and quantities used, it typically falls between 175 and 450 calories per serving. For example, a healthy recipe that substitutes milk for cream has approximately 197 calories per serving.
The soup typically includes a variety of vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, onions, and celery, which are simmered in a broth until tender. The vegetables are then pureed, creating a smooth and creamy base for the soup. This is often thickened with a roux made from butter and flour, and milk or cream is added for extra creaminess. The star ingredients, cheddar cheese, and sometimes other cheeses, are gradually added and melted into the soup. The soup is then seasoned to taste with salt and pepper.
Some recipes suggest adding dijon mustard for a tangy, peppery depth of flavor, while others recommend cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. The type of cheese used can also be varied, with mild or sharp cheddar being popular choices, but some recipes suggest using Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, goat cheese, or Gruyère for an extra indulgent touch.
Broccoli cheddar soup is often served with croutons or crispy bacon bits, and it can be enjoyed on its own or as a filling meal in a bread bowl. It's a versatile dish that can be tailored to personal preferences and dietary needs, with vegan options available by substituting vegan cheese and using olive oil instead of butter.
While it's a comforting and indulgent dish, broccoli cheddar soup's calorie count can be managed by making conscious ingredient choices and adjusting portion sizes. It's a flexible recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences without compromising its delicious flavor and creamy texture.
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Frequently asked questions
Broccoli cheddar soup is a creamy, cheesy soup that is loaded with tender broccoli and other vegetables. It is a popular comfort food and is often served in bread bowls or with croutons.
The main ingredients in broccoli cheddar soup are broccoli, carrots, onions, butter, flour, milk, vegetable or chicken broth, and cheddar cheese. Some recipes also call for spices such as mustard powder, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg.
Sharp cheddar cheese is commonly used in broccoli cheddar soup as it adds more flavour than milder cheeses. However, you can also use mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a combination of several cheeses.
To make broccoli cheddar soup, you first sauté the onions and carrots in butter until they are softened. Then, you add the broth, dairy, and seasonings. Finally, you add the broccoli and cheese, heating until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
It is not recommended to freeze creamy, cheesy soups as they tend to separate and become grainy after being thawed. However, some people have had success freezing the soup and reheating it without any issues.
