BROCCOLI CHEESE SOUP

Introduction

Broccoli Cheese Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the wholesome goodness of broccoli with the rich, creamy texture of Velveeta cheese. This soup is perfect for chilly days when you need something warm and satisfying. It’s a simple recipe that requires minimal ingredients and is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main course, this Broccoli Cheese Soup will be a hit with the entire family.

Ingredients

For the Broccoli Cheese Soup:

  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
  • 1 10-ounce can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Shredded cheddar cheese for garnish (optional)
  • Croutons for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Broccoli Cheese Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Begin by preparing the base of your soup. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. The sautéed onions add a depth of flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Transfer the sautéed onions to your crockpot. Add the can of cream of chicken soup, milk, and cubed Velveeta cheese. The cream of chicken soup provides a creamy base, while the Velveeta cheese melts smoothly, creating a velvety texture that’s irresistible. If you like a little extra flavor, sprinkle in the garlic powder.

Next, add the broccoli florets. If you’re using fresh broccoli, be sure to cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. Frozen broccoli works just as well and saves time on prep. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well mixed.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

Set your crockpot to low heat and cook the soup for 3-4 hours. Stir the soup occasionally to ensure the cheese melts evenly and the flavors meld together. As the soup cooks, the broccoli will become tender, and the cheese will melt into a rich, creamy broth. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop fully, resulting in a soup that’s both hearty and flavorful.

Final Touches and Serving

Step 4: Blend to Desired Consistency

Once the soup has cooked, you can choose to blend it to your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it’s completely smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend just a portion of the soup, leaving some broccoli florets intact. This gives the soup a satisfying texture with bits of broccoli and cheese in every bite.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the Broccoli Cheese Soup into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese or croutons for an added crunch. The melted cheddar on top adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness that’s hard to resist. If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce on top. Serve the soup hot, and enjoy the comforting warmth it brings.

Conservation

To store any leftover Broccoli Cheese Soup, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. The soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out to your liking.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheese Soup is a quick, easy, and delicious recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its rich, creamy texture and the perfect balance of flavors, it’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter night or serving it as a starter at a dinner party, this soup is guaranteed to please. Don’t forget to top it with extra cheese and croutons for that extra touch of indulgence!

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