Broccoli Cheese Soup with 5 Simple Ingredients Recipe

Introduction

This Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy, comforting dish made with just five simple ingredients. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for a cozy meal, and packed with flavor thanks to fresh broccoli and melted cheddar cheese.

Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli, cut into florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth, reduced sodium
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, pre-shredded

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic for one minute until fragrant. Add a little oil if needed to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and broccoli florets to the pot. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 to 20 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
3. Step 3: Use a slotted spoon to remove about one-third of the broccoli florets and set them aside. This step is optional if you prefer bits of broccoli in your soup; otherwise, leave all the broccoli in for a fully pureed texture.
4. Step 4: Use an immersion blender to puree the remaining soup until smooth.
5. Step 5: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly until each addition melts completely. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from seizing.
6. Step 6: Once all the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth, remove from heat and stir in the reserved broccoli florets. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Using an immersion blender creates a creamy texture while still allowing you to enjoy some broccoli pieces if you prefer.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.
• Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from separating. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well and can make the preparation even quicker. Just adjust the simmering time to ensure it becomes tender.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter soup, but the texture will be less rich and creamy. Adding a little flour or cornstarch can help thicken the soup if needed.

Broccoli Cheese Soup with 5 Simple Ingredients Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 84 reviews

• Author: Harry
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting and easy-to-make recipe with just five ingredients! Featuring tender broccoli florets, rich cheddar cheese, and a smooth blend of chicken broth and heavy cream, this soup is perfect for a quick lunch or cozy dinner. The recipe offers two options: a chunky, cheesy version or a silky, pureed texture, tailored to your preference.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids

• 3 1/2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

Dairy

• 3 cups pre-shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. Sauté Garlic: In a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic for one minute until fragrant. Add a little oil as needed to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
2. Simmer Broccoli: Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and broccoli florets to the pot. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook gently for 10-20 minutes until the broccoli becomes tender.
3. Option 1 – Chunky Cheese Soup: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese in 1/2 cup increments, stirring constantly over a very low simmer to ensure the cheese fully melts without seizing. Once all cheese is incorporated, remove from heat.
4. Option 2 – Pureed Cheese Soup (Recommended): Use a slotted spoon to remove about one-third of the broccoli florets and set them aside if you prefer some chunky texture in your soup. Using an immersion blender, puree the remaining soup until smooth.
5. Incorporate Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese gradually in 1/2 cup portions, stirring continuously until each addition melts completely. Puree the soup again if you desire a completely smooth texture.
6. Final Touches: Remove the soup from heat and stir the reserved broccoli florets back into the soup for added texture. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• Use pre-shredded cheddar cheese for easier melting and convenience.
• To avoid cheese seizing, keep the heat low when adding cheese and stir constantly.
• If you prefer a completely smooth soup, skip removing broccoli before blending.
• You can substitute vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian (but may alter recipe slightly).
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or black pepper if desired for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: broccoli cheese soup, easy soup recipe, creamy broccoli soup, 5 ingredient soup