Cheese And Broccoli Soup
Creamy and comforting, this cheese and broccoli soup combines tender broccoli, carrots, and green peppers in a rich Velveeta cheese base. Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner, it offers a savory, cheesy flavor with a hint of garlic and green peppers for added depth. Ideal for family gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot and sauté crushed garlic and chopped green peppers until fragrant.
- Gradually add flour to the butter mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in milk, one cup at a time, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Slice Velveeta cheese and add to the mixture, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add chicken broth, cooked and drained broccoli, and sliced carrots to the soup. Simmer gently.
- Ensure the soup does not boil to prevent curdling, and cook until heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup after cooking. If you don't have Velveeta, a mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese can work well. Fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Enhance flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious cheese and broccoli soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Pat'S Hot Chicken Salad for a hearty lunch. For a fun twist, top with croutons or extra cheese before serving to add texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to achieve desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Broccoli Soup contains roughly 1250 calories, with 32g protein, 225g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (192% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (113% of the Daily Value), and iron (77% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 718mg per serving (31% 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?
Absolutely! While Velveeta offers a creamy texture, you can substitute with other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary, so adjust accordingly for the desired creaminess.
Is there a way to make this soup healthier?
Yes! You can use low-fat milk instead of whole milk and reduce the amount of butter. Adding extra vegetables like spinach or cauliflower can increase the nutrient content without compromising flavor.
Can I freeze the soup?
Freezing is possible, but the texture may change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, omit the cheese during cooking and stir it in after reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
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).