Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness on a chilly evening? Look no further! This Village Baker Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and subtly sweet broccoli, all wrapped up in a heartwarming hug of a soup. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and satisfying enough to be a complete meal. This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create truly delicious and healthy meals. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional, but adds a delightful sharpness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: croutons, fresh chives, a swirl of cream
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 sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds the flavor foundation of our delicious soup.
Step 2: Add Broccoli and Broth
Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender-crisp. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Step 3: Blend for Creamy Texture (Optional)
For a smoother, creamier soup, carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids. If using a regular blender, vent the lid slightly to prevent pressure buildup.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Milk
Return the soup to the pot (if blended) or leave it in the pot if you prefer a chunkier texture. Stir in the milk and both cheeses until completely melted and the soup is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as croutons, fresh chives, or a swirl of cream. Serve immediately and enjoy this incredibly easy and flavorful healthy meal.
Cooking Tips:
- For a deeper flavor, roast the broccoli before adding it to the soup. Toss the florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
- If you don't have Gruyère cheese, you can substitute with other hard cheeses like Parmesan or Fontina.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato Broccoli Cheese Soup: Add 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes (undrained) along with the broth.
- Bacon Broccoli Cheese Soup: Add 4 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon along with the cheese.
- Curried Broccoli Cheese Soup: Stir in 1 teaspoon of curry powder along with the garlic.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Village Baker Broccoli Cheese Soup is a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea, a delicious dish perfect for any occasion. It's a recipe that easily adapts to your preferences, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes. Enjoy this comforting and healthy meal!