On a chilly evening, when comfort food is a must, the thought of a warm, creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup fills me with joy. The vibrant green of the broccoli complements the gooey cheese so beautifully, you can’t help but smile as you dive right in. What’s even more delightful? This dish can be made in just 20 minutes using my trusty Instant Pot.
I’ve often found myself reaching for fast food, only to wish I had something homemade and wholesome. That’s when I stumbled upon this recipe, transforming my weeknight routine into a cozy affair. The blend of sautéed onion and garlic creates an irresistible aroma that lures everyone to the kitchen, while the richness of cheddar signifies pure comfort.
Whether you're hosting a casual family dinner or looking for an easy meal to impress friends, this soup is bound to leave everyone wanting more. Let’s dive into this creamy delight, and I promise you’ll never look at broccoli the same way again!
Why You'll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- You will adore how effortlessly this soup comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- The rich and creamy texture combined with the savory flavors of cheddar guarantees a comforting bowl that warms your soul.
- Its vibrant color and delicious aroma make this dish visually appealing and inviting, ensuring it stands out at any dinner table.
- This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is versatile enough to be served as a main course or a delightful appetizer, pleasing both family and friends alike.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients
Discover how to make your creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup with these essential ingredients!
For the Base
- Unsalted butter – adds a rich, creamy flavor and helps sauté the veggies.
- Onion (diced) – imparts sweetness and depth; consider using shallots for a milder taste.
- Garlic (minced) – enhances the overall aroma, making the dish irresistible.
For the Soup
- Broccoli florets – the star of this dish, providing nutrients and vibrant color.
- Broth (vegetable or chicken) – creates the soup's base; choose chicken for added depth or vegetable for a lighter option.
- Whole milk – adds creaminess; dairy-free alternatives like almond milk can be used if desired.
- Heavy cream – ensures a luscious texture; for a lighter version, use half-and-half instead.
For the Flavor
- Cheddar cheese (shredded) – brings the signature cheesy goodness; feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère for a twist.
Get ready to whip up a bowl of coziness with these ingredients!
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
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Sauté the butter, onion, and garlic in your Instant Pot on the "Sauté" setting for about 3-5 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for your soup.
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Add the broccoli florets and broth into the pot. Stir to combine, then secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. You’ll hear the Instant Pot come to life as it builds pressure!
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Release the pressure quickly by switching the valve to "venting." Once it’s safe, open the lid carefully, and bask in the delightful aroma of your nearly finished soup.
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Blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches—just watch out for the hot steam!
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Stir in the milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well until the cheese melts and the soup is rich and velvety. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Optional: Top with additional cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a lovely garnish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Variations
Feel free to add your personal flair to this delightful soup with these exciting variations!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond or coconut milk for a creamy yet dairy-free option. You won't lose the rich texture, making it just as comforting!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while sautéing the onion and garlic to infuse some heat into the soup. This twist will warm you up from the inside out!
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Herbed Delight: Incorporate a handful of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary at the blending stage for an earthy flavor boost that complements the richness. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen!
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Vegetable Boost: Mix in some other veggies, like carrots or cauliflower, during the pressure cooking step for an extra nutrient punch and color. A splash of color makes dinner feel like a celebration!
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses—Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a tangy blue cheese can create a whole new flavor profile. Each cheese brings its unique character to the mix!
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Nutty Texture: Stir in some toasted almonds or cashews at the end for a crunchy contrast to the smooth soup. They add a lovely nuttiness that elevates your bowl to gourmet status!
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Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. It’s a small change that brings so much depth to the overall flavor!
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Citrus Zest: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving brightens things up and adds a refreshing lift to the creamy soup. It’s like a burst of sunshine in each spoonful!
What to Serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Imagine a cozy evening where every bite is a celebration of warmth and flavor, perfectly complementing your creamy bowl of soup.
- Crusty Bread: The ideal vessel to scoop up your soup, adding a delightful crunch to each spoonful.
- Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens brightened with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Classic comfort food at its finest—golden, melty cheese paired with the soup is simply irresistible.
- Roasted Vegetables: Earthy, caramelized veggies add depth to your meal while bringing out the vibrancy of the broccoli.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside and soft within, these are perfect for dunking into the cheesy soup.
- Apple Crisp: For a sweet finish, this warm dessert with a crunchy topping is a lovely way to round out your meal.
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea balances the creaminess, making for a delightful sip between spoonfuls.
How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Fridge: Store any leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. Avoid boiling to preserve texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Broccoli Cheddar Soup preparations are a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can chop the onion and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can pre-measure the broccoli florets and cheese, which can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy a warm bowl, simply sauté the prepped ingredients, add the broth, and pressure cook as directed. Finish by blending in the milk and cream just before serving to ensure that your soup remains creamy and luscious. This prep in advance strategy means you can savor homemade comfort food without all the stress!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Broccoli Cheddar Soup, ensure the butter is properly melted before adding the onion and garlic to enhance the flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the broccoli during the pressure cooking step as it can turn mushy and affect the soup's texture.
- A quick release of pressure is essential to maintain the brightness of the broccoli color and flavor.
- When blending, be cautious of hot steam if using a traditional blender—allow the soup to cool slightly or blend in smaller batches for safety.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of broccoli should I use for Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Absolutely! You'll want to select fresh broccoli florets that are vibrant green and firm. Avoid any with dark spots or wilting, as these signify over-ripeness. If you're in a pinch, frozen broccoli can also work well in this recipe—just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture.
How should I store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Store your leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to reheat it slowly on the stove to maintain its creamy texture, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Absolutely, freezing is a great option! Allow the soup to cool completely, then pour it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Be sure to leave some space for expansion, as liquids can expand when frozen. This way, you can enjoy your soup later, as it will keep well for up to 3 months.
What if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If your soup turns out thicker than you like, simply add a splash of broth or milk while reheating. Stir well until you reach your desired consistency. Another tip is to blend it for a few extra seconds to incorporate more liquid if needed.
Is this soup pet-friendly?
While the ingredients in Broccoli Cheddar Soup are mostly safe for dogs, the cheese and heavy cream can cause digestive issues for some pets. It's best to keep this delicious treat to yourself and opt for unseasoned veggies as doggie snacks instead.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the soup?
If you're looking for lighter options, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk. For a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut milk or a combo of almond milk and a thickener like cornstarch can create a creamy texture without the dairy!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté the butter, onion, and garlic in your Instant Pot on the 'Sauté' setting for about 3-5 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and broth into the pot. Stir to combine, then secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Release the pressure quickly by switching the valve to 'venting.' Carefully open the lid and enjoy the aroma.
- Blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth and creamy, or transfer to a blender carefully in batches.
- Stir in the milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional: Top with additional cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for garnish.
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