Broccoli-Cheddar Cheese Soup
A comforting broccoli-cheddar cheese soup with a hint of spice, perfect for chilly days. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh vegetables, it suits all comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add flour, cook and stir for 30 seconds or until bubbly.
- Add milk, salt, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper.
- Bring to a simmer over high heat, stirring frequently.
- Add chopped broccoli and red bell pepper, then return to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup before adding the cheese. You can substitute margarine with butter for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a healthier option, use unsweetened almond milk instead of low-fat milk. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile. You can also throw in some cooked chicken for extra protein, making it a heartier dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the broccoli-cheddar cheese soup with a sprinkle of fresh chives on top for added flavor and color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a cozy breakfast, consider serving alongside Hazelnut Oatmeal Pancakes for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much upon refrigeration, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Cheddar Cheese Soup contains roughly 1120 calories, with 63g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (315% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (240% of the Daily Value), and calcium (152% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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
How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
If your soup turns out too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering soup until it reaches your desired thickness. Alternatively, blending a portion of the soup can also help achieve a creamier consistency.
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).