Certainly! Let’s dive into the delicious world of Cheese Broccoli Soup, a comforting recipe perfect for those chilly winter days. π§π₯¦
Cheese Broccoli Soup Recipe
Overview
- Name: Cheese Broccoli Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 3 quarts
- Rating: βοΈβοΈβοΈβοΈβοΈ
- Calories: 1032.3 per serving
- Servings: Approximately 8
Description
This Cheese Broccoli Soup recipe is often claimed to be a perfect copycat of a local restaurant’s version, and honestly, it’s hard to tell the difference! It’s an absolute winner, especially when paired with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The creamy texture, the cheesy goodness, and the tender broccoli all come together to create a comforting bowl of warmth that’s ideal for cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped onion
- 3/4 cup margarine
- 3 cups water
- 6 chicken bouillon cubes
- 6 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 cups milk
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 6 cups cubed Velveeta cheese
- 1 cooked chicken breast, cubed
Instructions
Here’s how to make this delectable Cheese Broccoli Soup:
| Step | Instructions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | SautΓ© the Onions: In a large pot, melt the margarine over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sautΓ© for about 3 minutes, until they are translucent and fragrant. | 10 minutes |
| 2 | Prepare the Broth: Pour in the water and add the chicken bouillon cubes. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the cubes are fully dissolved. | 10 minutes |
| 3 | Cook the Noodles: Add the noodles and salt to the pot, cooking for about 3 minutes or until the noodles are just tender. | 3 minutes |
| 4 | Add the Broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and garlic powder. Cook for an additional 4 minutes, allowing the broccoli to become tender yet still vibrant green. | 4 minutes |
| 5 | Incorporate Milk and Cheese: Pour in the milk and add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir well until the cheese is completely melted into the soup, creating a rich and creamy base. | – |
| 6 | Simmer to Perfection: Add the cubed chicken breast to the pot and let the soup simmer gently for about 1 hour. This slow simmer allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. | 1 hour |
| 7 | Serve and Enjoy: Once the soup has thickened to your desired consistency and the flavors have fully developed, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a drizzle of cream if desired. Enjoy this cozy bowl of comfort! | – |
Notes
-
Broccoli Texture: For a soup with a bit more texture, you can reserve a handful of broccoli florets before cooking. Add these in towards the end of cooking for a slight crunch.
-
Cheese Variations: If Velveeta isn’t your preferred cheese, feel free to experiment! Cheddar, Gouda, or even Swiss can bring their unique flavors to this soup.
-
Make it Vegetarian: Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable bouillon cubes for a hearty vegetarian version of this soup.
-
Freezing Tips: This soup freezes beautifully. Store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Serving Suggestions
-
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: As mentioned, a classic grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect companion to this soup. The crispy, buttery bread and gooey cheese are a match made in heaven.
-
Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping. Baguette slices or homemade dinner rolls are excellent choices.
-
Fresh Salad: Balance out the richness of the soup with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Cheese Broccoli Soup recipe is a true winner in terms of flavor, comfort, and ease of preparation. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner for one or feeding a crowd, this soup is sure to impress. Give it a try, and savor the creamy, cheesy goodness with every spoonful. π₯£β¨
