How do you make broccoli cheddar soup creamy without using heavy cream?

To make broccoli cheddar soup creamy without heavy cream, use a combination of milk and a roux made from butter and flour. Start by melting butter in a pot, whisking in flour to create a thick base, then slowly add milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Once the mixture thickens, add steamed or blanched broccoli and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt smoothly into the base, creating a rich texture without the extra fat from heavy cream.

What is the best way to prevent broccoli cheddar soup from becoming grainy?

To prevent broccoli cheddar soup from becoming grainy, melt the cheese slowly over low heat and avoid boiling the soup after adding the cheese. Sharp cheddar can separate or become gritty if exposed to high heat. Shredding your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents, also helps maintain a smooth texture.

Can broccoli cheddar soup be made ahead and reheated?

Yes, broccoli cheddar soup can be made ahead and reheated. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm on low heat and stir frequently to keep the texture smooth. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent the cheese from separating.

What are some healthy variations of broccoli cheddar soup?

Healthy variations of broccoli cheddar soup include using low-fat milk or unsweetened plant-based milk instead of whole milk or cream. You can also add cauliflower for extra veggies and fiber or use reduced-fat cheddar cheese to cut down on calories. To reduce sodium, use low-sodium broth and moderate the amount of added salt.

How long does homemade broccoli cheddar soup last in the freezer?

Homemade broccoli cheddar soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Freeze it in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove. Note that freezing may change the texture slightly, but stirring well during reheating helps restore creaminess.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe With Rich Creamy Cheese

Name: Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 4 tablespoons Butter; – 1 medium Yellow onion, chopped; – ½ teaspoon Salt; – Freshly ground black pepper; – 3 Garlic cloves, chopped; – ¼ cup All-purpose flour; – 2 cups Whole milk or unsweetened alternative milk; – 2 cups Vegetable broth; – 3 cups Broccoli florets, chopped; – 1 Large carrot, julienned or finely chopped; – ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard; – 8 ounces Shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 heaping cups); – Croutons for serving

Description

🥦 This broccoli cheddar soup offers a creamy, cheesy comfort that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
🧀 Enjoy a warm bowl filled with tender broccoli and rich cheddar, perfect for cozy meals.

Ingredients

– 4 tablespoons Butter

– 1 medium Yellow onion, chopped

– ½ teaspoon Salt

– Freshly ground black pepper

– 3 Garlic cloves, chopped

– ¼ cup All-purpose flour

– 2 cups Whole milk or unsweetened alternative milk

– 2 cups Vegetable broth

– 3 cups Broccoli florets, chopped

– 1 Large carrot, julienned or finely chopped

– ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard

– 8 ounces Shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 heaping cups)

– Croutons for serving

Instructions

1-First, melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, salt, and pepper, then cook while stirring for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and smells amazing.

2-Next, stir in the garlic and let it cook for another minute to build that flavorful base.

3-Sprinkle in the flour and whisk it continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until it turns golden. Slowly pour in the milk while keeping that whisk moving to avoid any lumps. Add the vegetable broth, broccoli, carrot, and mustard, then stir everything together.

4-Let the soup simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the flavors blend perfectly. For an internal link that might inspire you, check out this recipe for creamy seafood bisque if you’re in the mood for something similar.

5-Finally, take the pot off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time until it’s all melted and creamy. Serve it up hot, and don’t forget those croutons if you have them on hand.

Notes

🧀 Grate the cheese yourself to ensure smooth melting and avoid anti-caking agents.
🍲 Whisk continuously when adding flour and milk to prevent lumps and burning.
🔥 Add cheese over low heat in small increments for a creamy texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup, Comfort Food
Method: Simmering, Whisking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 1/4 cups)
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 12 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: broccoli soup, cheddar soup, creamy soup, cheesy soup