### Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup 🥦🧀: A Comforting Bowl of Delight
## Introduction
Imagine warming up with a bowl of delightfully smooth, creamy, and cheesy soup, teeming with the goodness of broccoli – sounds divine, isn’t it? Delight your senses with our delectable and easy-to-make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, perfect for those nippy evenings or when you desire comfort food at its best.
## Why Make This Recipe
This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is packed full of nutrients while being extremely satiating. This recipe is your go-to if you’re looking for a simple but flavorful dish that can be a full meal on its own or served as a starter. It is healthy, vegetarian-friendly, and easily modifiable for those on a gluten-free or low carb diet.
## How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Making this sumptuous soup is as effortless as it gets, and the ingredients are easily available or might already be in your pantry!
## Ingredients
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, diced
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
## Directions
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and carrot until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
3. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or by carefully transferring to a blender in batches.
4. Return the soup to the pot and stir in milk. Slowly add in the cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and well combined.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
## How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This creamy soup stands out on its own but also pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light, fresh salad. For an extra dose of indulgence, serve it hot with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese or a dollop of cream on top.
## How to Store Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Store the leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to a month. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up over medium heat.
## Tips to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Always use fresh broccoli for the best flavor, and chop them small for a quicker and even cooking. Do not boil the soup after adding cheese to avoid it getting grainy. Instead, let it melt slowly over low heat.
## Variation
You can add other veggies like peas, spinach, or cauliflower, to the soup. For a non-vegetarian version, add cooked shredded chicken or bacon bits.
## FAQs
**Q1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?**
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available. Just account for a longer cooking time.
**Q2. Can I use other types of cheese?**
Yes, you can experiment with other types of cheese like gouda, Monterey Jack, or comfort for varied flavors.
**Q3. Can I make this soup vegan?**
Absolutely. You can use almond or soy milk and vegan cheese to make this soup vegan-friendly.