Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Photo: Uncut Recipes

---

Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting, creamy and delicious soup that makes a perfect meal for cold and gloomy days. This recipe features some unique ingredients that may not be found in the traditional version of the soup, but they add a depth of flavor and nutrition that make it truly special.

JUMP TO:

INGREDIENTS:

To make a successful Broccoli Cheese Soup, it is important to choose the right ingredients. The broth should be rich and flavorful, and chicken broth is a perfect option. The broccoli should be fresh and bright green, and it is essential to chop it into small pieces so it cooks evenly. The melty cheese should be a type that melts well, such as cheddar, gouda, or fontina. The onion should be sweet and finely chopped to add flavor without overpowering the soup. The milk should be whole or 2%, and the garlic should be fresh and minced. Finally, the cornstarch should be used to thicken the soup, but be sure to mix it thoroughly with water to avoid lumps.

Broccoli: When choosing broccoli, select those that are bright green, have tightly packed florets, and are free from blemishes or brown spots. The fresher the broccoli, the better it will taste.

Cheese: This recipe calls for melty cheese, which can include cheddar, American, or any other cheese that melts easily. If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, you can use sharp cheddar or gouda.

Cornstarch: Cornstarch helps thicken the soup, but you can also use flour or arrowroot powder as a substitute.

Chicken broth: If you don't have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or water instead. However, using chicken broth adds a depth of flavor that will enhance the overall taste of the soup.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is recommended for this recipe, but if you don't have it, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor won't be as robust.

By following these notes and tips, readers can make a delicious and satisfying broccoli cheese soup that's perfect for a cozy meal at home.

MAIN STEPS:

To make Broccoli Cheese Soup, it is essential to follow some tips and tricks to make it perfectly. Firstly, do not overcook the broccoli, as it can become mushy and lose its nutritional value. Secondly, add the cheese at the end and let it melt slowly over low heat to avoid curdling. Finally, stir the soup continuously while adding the cornstarch mixture to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.

The main steps in making Broccoli Cheese Soup are crucial to achieving a perfect and delicious soup. First, chop the broccoli into small pieces and the onion finely. Melt the butter in a stockpot and sauté the onion until it becomes soft. Then add the broccoli and sauté until it is coated with the butter and onion mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil, then let it simmer until the broccoli is cooked. Add the cheese and let it melt slowly over low heat. Finally, add the garlic, milk, and cornstarch mixture, stirring continuously until it thickens.

SERVED WITH:

Broccoli Cheese Soup pairs well with a variety of dishes and desserts. For a complete meal, serve it with a salad or a crusty bread. For dessert, try something light and refreshing like fresh fruit salad or a citrus sorbet.

Here are a few dishes that would be great to serve alongside or before/after Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe:

Baked Potato: A baked potato is a comforting side dish made by baking a potato until tender and then topping it with butter, sour cream, chives, and cheese.

Ham and Cheese Croissant: A French-inspired pastry that is filled with ham and melted cheese.

Quiche: A French dish made with a savory custard filling of eggs, cream, cheese, and various meats, vegetables, or seafood.

ALTERNATIVES:

Broccoli Cheese Casserole: A classic American side dish made with broccoli, cheese, and a breadcrumb topping.

Creamy Broccoli Soup: A soup made with pureed broccoli, milk or cream, and cheese, similar to Broccoli Cheese Soup but without the chunky vegetables.

Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche: A savory French pastry with a broccoli and cheese filling.

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken: Chicken breasts stuffed with broccoli and cheese, breaded and baked until golden and crispy.

Broccoli Cheese Dip: A party dip made with melted cheese, broccoli, and other flavorful ingredients.

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes: Baked potatoes filled with a broccoli and cheese mixture, a hearty and satisfying side dish or vegetarian main course.

Broccoli and Cheese Calzone: An Italian turnover filled with broccoli and cheese, similar to a pizza pocket.

Broccoli and Cheese Casserole with Rice: A Tex-Mex inspired casserole made with broccoli, cheese, rice, and spices.

Broccoli Cheese Muffins: Savory muffins made with broccoli, cheese, and herbs, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Shells: Jumbo pasta shells filled with a broccoli and cheese mixture, baked in tomato sauce until bubbly and delicious.

HISTORY:

Broccoli cheese soup is a popular soup that is often served as a starter or main course. The origins of the soup are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century.

One of the earliest known recipes for broccoli cheese soup was published in a cookbook called "The New Butterick Cook Book" in 1924. The recipe called for butter, flour, milk, grated American cheese, and cooked broccoli.

Over the years, many variations of the soup have been created. Some recipes call for the addition of other ingredients, such as carrots, onions, and celery, while others use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Gouda.

In the 1980s, broccoli cheese soup became particularly popular in the United States after being served in the restaurant chain Panera Bread. Today, it is a staple on many restaurant menus and is also frequently made at home.

While the exact history of broccoli cheese soup is unclear, its popularity is a testament to its delicious taste and versatility as a meal.

TIPS:

Here are some tips to keep in mind when making this Broccoli Cheese Soup:

- Don't overcook the broccoli, as it can become mushy and lose its texture.

- Use a melty cheese, such as cheddar or fontina, for the best flavor and texture.

- Add the cornstarch and water mixture slowly to avoid clumps.

- Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

- Overall, this Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe is a delicious and comforting meal that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

Conversions and Servings: Cups (1 Person) Cups (2 People) Cups (3 People) Cups (4 People) Cups (5 People) Cups (6 People) Cups (8 People) Imperial (1 Person) Imperial (2 People) Imperial (3 People) Imperial (4 People) Imperial (5 People) Imperial (6 People) Imperial (8 People) Metric (1 Person) Metric (2 People) Metric (3 People) Metric (4 People) Metric (5 People) Metric (6 People) Metric (8 People)

Directions:

01 - Chop the Broccoli. Set aside.

02 - Chop the Onion. Set aside.

03 - Finely chop the Garlic. Set aside.

04 - Melt the Butter in a stockpot over medium heat. Let the Butter melt completely and become hot, without boiling or frying it.

05 - Put the chopped Onion into the melted Butter and cook everything together. Stir the mixture occasionally until the Onion becomes soft and tender.

06 - Take the chopped Broccoli and add it into the stockpot with the Butter and Onion. Mix everything together until the Broccoli is well-coated.

07 - Pour the Chicken Broth over the mixture in the stockpot. Bring the mixture to a boil and then let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the Broccoli is tender and cooked.

08 - Lower the heat of the stove and add the Cheese into the stockpot. Stir everything together until the Cheese has fully melted into the Soup.

09 - Add the Milk and Garlic into the stockpot and stir everything together until it's well combined.



10 - In a bowl, mix the Cornstarch and Water until the mixture becomes smooth lumps free.



11 - Pour the Cornstarch and Water mixture into the stockpot and stir the Soup frequently. Continue cooking the Soup until it has thickened and is at the desired consistency. Serve hot.

Photo: Uncut Recipes

Notes:

- Storing: you can store leftover broccoli cheese soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.

- Optional add-ins: you can add other ingredients to the soup to give it some extra flavor and texture. Some popular options include bacon bits, croutons, diced ham, or chopped herbs like parsley or thyme.

- Preparing ahead: you can chop the onion and broccoli ahead of time to make the cooking process faster. You can also make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to eat it.

- Consistency: the thickness of the soup can vary depending on personal preference. If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add more milk or broth. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more cornstarch.

---

---

Written by: Uncut Recipes

Disclaimer

---

---