Introduction to Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
As the days grow colder, few dishes offer the same level of comfort as a warm, creamy bowl of Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup. This soup takes the classic flavors of broccoli and cheddar and elevates them by roasting the broccoli florets, which brings out a deeper, slightly sweet flavor with caramelized edges. Unlike traditional broccoli soups, this recipe delivers a rich, smoky essence that enhances every spoonful.
Roasting the broccoli before adding it to the soup allows the flavors to develop and intensify, creating a satisfying depth that’s balanced perfectly by the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the creaminess of heavy cream. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a simple meal to impress guests, this soup will not disappoint. For more on the benefits of roasting, check out these tips on roasting vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to try this roasted broccoli and cheddar soup:
- Smoky, Rich Flavor: Roasting the broccoli adds a smoky, sweet flavor that makes this soup more complex and satisfying than typical broccoli cheddar soups.
- Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and melted cheddar gives the soup a luxuriously creamy texture, making it comforting and filling.
- Simple and Versatile: This recipe is easy to make and perfect for customization. Add a hint of smoked paprika or sprinkle with crispy bacon for an extra twist.
This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as enjoyable to cook as it is to eat, bringing the cozy flavors of fall right to your table.
Ingredient List with Details
Creating a flavorful Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup starts with carefully chosen ingredients that enhance each other to create a rich, satisfying dish.
- Broccoli: Using fresh broccoli florets is key for roasting. Fresh broccoli roasts to perfection, developing a caramelized sweetness that elevates the soup’s flavor. Roasting frozen broccoli won’t yield the same deep flavor or texture, so stick to fresh if possible.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar is ideal for this recipe, as it adds a robust, tangy flavor that complements the roasted broccoli. For a twist, try a blend with white cheddar or even gouda, which brings a creamier, slightly smoky taste.
- Cream and Milk: Heavy cream provides a luscious, rich texture, while milk can lighten the soup without sacrificing creaminess. Adjust the combination based on your preference—more cream for richness or more milk for a lighter version.
- Aromatics: Onion and garlic form the savory base of the soup, enhancing its depth. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika brings a subtle smoky warmth, amplifying the flavor of the roasted broccoli and cheddar.
- Optional Add-ins: Customize your soup with toppings like chopped chives, crispy bacon bits, or even roasted cauliflower for added texture and flavor. These add-ins provide extra layers of taste, making each bowl unique.
Tips for Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to fit dietary needs:
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream, and use vegan cheddar cheese for a dairy-free version. The coconut milk adds creaminess with a slightly sweet undertone that pairs well with the roasted broccoli.
- Lower-Calorie Version: For a lighter soup, use reduced-fat cheese and replace heavy cream with low-fat milk. This still provides creaminess without the extra calories, ideal for a lighter meal.
- Flavor Variations: Add a dash of thyme or rosemary for an herbal note or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat. These spices bring new dimensions to the classic broccoli-cheddar combination, letting you customize the soup to your taste.
With these ingredient choices and substitutions, you can tailor Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup to suit your preferences without compromising on flavor or comfort.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to achieve a perfectly creamy, flavorful soup:
- Step 1: Roasting the Broccoli
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place broccoli florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and lightly caramelized. Roasting at high heat intensifies the flavor and adds a subtle sweetness, perfect for this soup. - Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. These aromatics provide a savory base, enhancing the overall depth of the soup. - Step 3: Adding Broth and Roasted Broccoli
Pour in vegetable or chicken broth, and add the roasted broccoli (reserve a few florets for garnish if desired). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Simmering helps infuse the broth with the roasted, nutty flavors of the broccoli, enriching each spoonful. - Step 4: Blending the Soup
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until smooth, or leave it slightly chunky if you prefer texture. Alternatively, carefully transfer batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Blending unifies the flavors and creates a creamy base for the cheese and cream. - Step 5: Adding Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, along with a pinch of smoked paprika for extra warmth, if desired. Stir over low heat until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. Avoid boiling at this stage to prevent curdling. - Step 6: Serving Suggestions
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with reserved broccoli florets, extra shredded cheddar, and a sprinkle of chopped chives for added color and flavor. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete, comforting meal.
These steps ensure a balanced, velvety Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup that’s both satisfying and perfect for chilly days.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup pairs beautifully with simple sides to make a complete, satisfying meal:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. The bread’s texture complements the creamy soup, adding a satisfying crunch.
- Fresh Side Salad: A light salad with arugula or mixed greens balances the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Garnishes: Top each bowl with extra cheddar cheese, chopped chives, or a few reserved roasted broccoli florets for color, texture, and added flavor. These garnishes make each bowl look as inviting as it tastes.
Storage and Reheating
Keep your soup tasting fresh with these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This allows you to enjoy it throughout the week without losing flavor.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Before freezing, ensure the soup is fully cooled to help retain its creamy texture.
- Reheating Tips: When ready to reheat, warm the soup on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a bit of broth to achieve your desired consistency, ensuring it remains creamy and smooth.
Recipe Variations
Customize this Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup to suit different dietary preferences and flavor profiles:
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and add a dash of smoked paprika to enhance the depth without meat-based broth.
- Spicy Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Soup: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes while simmering. The spicy notes balance the creaminess beautifully.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute a portion of the broccoli with cauliflower to reduce the carb content. This keeps the soup’s creamy texture while cutting carbs.
- Extra Creamy Version: Increase the heavy cream and add a bit more cheddar cheese for a richer, more indulgent soup. This version is perfect for a special, comforting meal on chilly days.
These variations allow you to enjoy this versatile soup in different ways, making it easy to tailor to your taste or dietary needs.
FAQs Section
- Can I make this soup without roasting the broccoli?
Yes, you can make this soup without roasting the broccoli, but roasting adds a deeper flavor and slight caramelization that makes the soup richer. If you skip roasting, simply add fresh broccoli directly to the broth and simmer until tender. - How can I make it dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or another dairy-free cream alternative. Replace cheddar cheese with a vegan cheddar option, which melts well and offers similar creaminess. - What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Blend until smooth, being cautious of the hot liquid. Return the soup to the pot to add the remaining ingredients. - Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, though it won’t caramelize as well as fresh broccoli. Defrost the broccoli first and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before roasting for best results. Frozen broccoli will still add a nice flavor to the soup. - How can I prevent curdling?
To avoid curdling, don’t bring the soup to a boil after adding the cream and cheese. Keep the heat on low and stir gently to allow the cheese to melt smoothly without separating.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup contains approximately 300-350 calories, with a good balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cheese and a smaller amount of cream or replace it with milk. Adding extra vegetables like cauliflower or carrots boosts nutrition while keeping the soup satisfying and comforting.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
This Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup is the ultimate blend of comfort and flavor. Its creamy texture and rich taste make it a perfect choice for chilly days, and the roasting process brings out the best in the broccoli. Easy to make and adaptable, it’s ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special meal with friends. Give it a try, and feel free to experiment with add-ins or variations to make it uniquely yours. Let us know how it turns out!
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Creamy Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that combines the nuttiness of roasted broccoli with sharp cheddar. Perfect for chilly days, this soup offers a cozy meal with depth and complexity, making it a satisfying choice for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Extra shredded cheddar and chopped chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange broccoli florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onions until softened, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add broth and roasted broccoli to the pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Blend soup until smooth or leave slightly chunky.
- Stir in cream and cheddar over low heat until melted. Serve topped with extra cheddar and chives.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add smoked paprika while blending.
- Adjust thickness with more broth if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting and simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: Approx. 300-350 per serving
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 12g
Keywords: Broccoli cheese soup, creamy broccoli cheddar soup, roasted broccoli soup, fall soup recipe, easy broccoli soup