Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This Velveeta Broccoli and Cheese Soup recipe is the perfect easy recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. It's a healthy meal packed with cheesy goodness and vibrant broccoli florets, making it a family favorite. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest! This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and best recipes without sacrificing flavor.
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 or 2% recommended for creaminess)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, croutons, bacon bits
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add broccoli and broth: Add the broccoli florets and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
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Melt the cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese and milk. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
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Season and serve: Season the soup with black pepper and salt to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, crispy croutons, or crumbled bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli will become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp florets for the best texture.
- Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli will provide the best flavor and vibrant green color.
- For a smoother soup: Use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup for a creamier consistency.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato Broccoli Cheese Soup: Add 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes (undrained) along with the chicken broth for a richer, tangier flavor.
- Cheddar Broccoli Cheese Soup: Replace Velveeta with 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese for a different cheesy experience.
- Add protein: Cooked chicken, sausage, or ham can be added for a heartier soup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe yielding 6 servings and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion size. Please consult a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Velveeta Broccoli and Cheese Soup recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are simple to make, ideal for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends. Enjoy!