Broccoli And Cheese Soupgroves, Texas
A creamy broccoli and cheese soup with a rich, savory flavor, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat.
- Saute chopped broccoli and onions in the butter for 3 minutes.
- Add flour to the pan and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
- Gradually stir in chicken broth and water, bringing to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until broccoli is tender.
- Stir in half and half and cook until heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce. If you're out of half and half, you can substitute with equal parts milk and cream. Fresh broccoli works best, but frozen can be used; just adjust cooking time to ensure it's tender. For extra creaminess, add a handful of shredded cheese during the last step.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with crusty bread or a side salad. Consider pairing it with a light protein like grilled shrimp or chicken, such as the Picante-Dijon Grilled Chicken, for a complete dinner. For added flavor, top each bowl with shredded cheese or croutons.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover broccoli and cheese soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Cheese Soupgroves, Texas contains roughly 1380 calories, with 26g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (54% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 496mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese in this soup?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well into the soup for a creamy texture.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, but it's best to freeze the soup before adding the half and half. Once cooled, transfer it to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently, adding fresh half and half before serving.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. This will maintain the flavor while keeping the dish plant-based. Additionally, you can add more vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for added nutrition.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).