Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious soup that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe, made with the classic Velveeta cheese, is the ultimate quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend evenings. Forget complicated recipes; this one is incredibly easy, even for beginner cooks, resulting in a healthy and flavorful meal the whole family will adore. Get ready to experience homemade comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 (16 ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, croutons
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a delicious flavor base for your soup.
Step 2: Add Broccoli and Broth
Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese and milk to the pot. Stir constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. If the soup is too thick, add a little more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, or crunchy croutons.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Soup:
- Don't overcook the broccoli: You want it tender-crisp, not mushy. Overcooked broccoli will release too much water, potentially thinning your soup.
- Use high-quality cheese: The better the cheese, the better the soup! Velveeta melts beautifully, creating that signature creamy texture.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Broccoli Cheese Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Roasted Broccoli Cheese Soup: Roast the broccoli florets before adding them to the soup for a deeper, more intense flavor.
- Creamy Tomato Broccoli Cheese Soup: Stir in 1/2 cup of tomato puree or diced tomatoes for a richer, more complex flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy broccoli cheese soup recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals you can create quickly at home. It’s a satisfying and flavorful dish that's perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Enjoy!