On a chilly evening, there’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of Cheesy Bacon & Broccoli Soup to warm your soul and bring the family together. This delectable soup combines the smokiness of turkey bacon with the fresh, vibrant flavors of broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious cheese broth. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, this soup brings together the best of comfort food with a nutritious twist. Prepare to be inspired and dive into the creamy goodness of this family-favorite recipe!
Recipe Summary
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Skill Level | Easy |
Ingredients
- 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the fresh broccoli florets to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to become tender but still vibrant green.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with the crispy bacon bits, extra cheese, and a few reserved broccoli florets for a beautiful presentation.
Helpful Tips
- You can use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup.
- For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
- To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Storage Instructions & Ingredient Substitutions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid curdling the cheese.
If you’re out of turkey bacon, you can use regular bacon or pancetta for a similar smoky flavor. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
Pairings & Complementary Dishes
This Cheesy Bacon & Broccoli Soup pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or a warm, crusty loaf of bread. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light Pinot Grigio or a glass of cold apple cider.
Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure! I can’t wait to see your version of this Cheesy Bacon & Broccoli Soup. Share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website. Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and follow us on social media for daily inspiration. Happy cooking!
