Broccoli Cheese Soup (5 Ingredients!)

This Broccoli Cheese Soup (5 Ingredients!) is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with creamy texture. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this soup is incredibly easy to prepare and can be on your table in just 20 minutes. With only five ingredients, you can whip up a comforting bowl of goodness that’s sure to please everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be made in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Minimal Ingredients: With only five simple ingredients, it’s straightforward and accessible.
• Creamy Texture: The heavy cream combined with cheddar cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as an appetizer; it pairs wonderfully with bread or a fresh salad.
• Kid-Friendly: Its cheesy goodness makes it appealing to both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Broccoli Cheese Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Spoon for stirring

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Provides ample space for simmering the soup evenly without spilling.
• Cutting board: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of ingredients, especially broccoli and garlic.

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Ingredients

This easy broccoli cheese soup recipe is rich, creamy, and so simple. You need just 5 ingredients and 20 minutes to make it!

For the Soup Base

• 4 cups Broccoli (cut into florets)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 3 1/2 cups Chicken broth, reduced sodium

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 1 cup Heavy cream
• 3 cups Cheddar cheese (pre-shredded – see notes)

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup (5 Ingredients!)

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

In a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, sauté garlic for one minute, until fragrant. You can add a little oil as needed.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and chopped broccoli to the pot. Increase heat to bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-20 minutes until broccoli is tender.

This recipe yields about 8 servings of delicious broccoli cheese soup that everyone will love! Enjoy your creamy creation as a comforting meal or appetizer!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Soup (5 Ingredients!)

Serving broccoli cheese soup is a delightful experience, especially when you pair it with complementary sides or toppings. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping. It adds a satisfying crunch and absorbs the creamy soup.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of freshness and color. This enhances the visual appeal and flavor.

Add a Dash of Hot Sauce

• For those who enjoy a little heat, adding a few drops of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile and give it an exciting kick.

Serve in Bread Bowls

• For a fun presentation, serve your soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks great but also provides additional texture.

Include a Side Salad

• A light side salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider arugula or mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette for freshness.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup (5 Ingredients!)

Creating the perfect broccoli cheese soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets will provide better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones. Look for vibrant green pieces without any yellow spots.

• Melt Cheese Gradually: To avoid clumping, add cheese gradually while stirring continuously. This helps achieve that creamy consistency you desire.

• Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or cream until you reach your preferred consistency. You want it hearty yet pourable.

• Season Well: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of salt or pepper can make all the difference in bringing out the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheese Soup (5 Ingredients!)

Pairing side dishes with broccoli cheese soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy soup perfectly, adding flavor and texture.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crunch and tang, balancing out the richness of the soup nicely.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, making your meal more wholesome.

4. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice or quinoa for added substance, pairing well with the light nature of the soup.

5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with citrus dressing can provide a zesty contrast to the creamy broccoli cheese soup.

6. Cheese Crackers: Homemade or store-bought cheese crackers offer an extra cheesy crunch that complements each spoonful of soup beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making broccoli cheese soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Bold Flavoring: Not adding enough seasoning can lead to a bland soup. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, especially with chicken broth.
• Bold Cooking Time: Overcooking the broccoli will make it mushy. Cook just until tender for the best texture.
• Bold Cheese Quality: Using low-quality cheese can result in a greasy or stringy texture. Opt for high-quality cheddar for a creamy finish.
• Bold Cream Addition: Adding cream too early can prevent it from blending smoothly. Stir it in after the broccoli has softened for better results.
• Bold Broth Choice: Using regular sodium broth can overpower the dish. Choose reduced sodium broth for more control over flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your broccoli cheese soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Broccoli Cheese Soup (5 Ingredients!)

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Broccoli Cheese Soup (5 Ingredients!)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making broccoli cheese soup.

How do I make Broccoli Cheese Soup (5 Ingredients!) thicker?

You can thicken the soup by adding more cheese or using a cornstarch slurry. Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it in while cooking.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli works great! Just ensure it’s cut into small florets to cook evenly.

What if I want to make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based cheese alternatives.

How long does Broccoli Cheese Soup (5 Ingredients!) last?

It lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 2-3 months if stored correctly.

Final Thoughts

This easy broccoli cheese soup is not only quick to prepare but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding other vegetables like carrots or spinach for added nutrition. Enjoy this creamy delight as a comforting meal any day of the week!