CREAM OF BROCCOLI CHEESE SOUP

Cream of Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting, velvety dish that’s rich in flavor and perfect for chilly days. This creamy soup combines tender broccoli with sharp cheddar cheese, creating a delicious balance of earthy vegetables and creamy, cheesy goodness. The blend of sautéed onions, garlic, and a hint of nutmeg enhances the flavor, making this a hearty and satisfying meal on its own or as a starter. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping, and you’ve got the ultimate cozy meal in a bowl.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening, optional)
• Extra cheddar cheese, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the onions and garlic: In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Cook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
3. Blend the soup: Using an immersion blender or transferring the soup to a blender in batches, blend until smooth, leaving a few chunks of broccoli for texture, if desired.
4. Add the dairy: Return the soup to the pot (if using a blender) and stir in the milk, cream, and nutmeg (if using). If you’d like a thicker soup, whisk the flour into the milk before adding it to the pot.
5. Melt the cheese: Gradually add the grated cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Ladle the creamy broccoli cheese soup into bowls, garnish with extra cheddar cheese, and serve with crusty bread or crackers.

This Cream of Broccoli Cheese Soup is a rich and flavorful comfort food that’s perfect for a warm, satisfying meal!