Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Garlic Croutons Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the heartwarming embrace of a steaming bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Garlic Croutons. Perfect for those chilly evenings or a delightful family lunch, this dish brings together the creamy richness of cheddar with the fresh, earthy notes of broccoli. And the best part? The golden, crunchy garlic croutons add that irresistible crispiness, making every spoonful a matter of joy. The recipe is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures, creating moments that are truly unforgettable when shared with loved ones.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 45 mins
• Servings: 4
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 cups cubed bread (for croutons)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the diced carrot and broccoli florets to the pot, then pour in the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a bit of the hot broth until smooth, then stir this mixture back into the pot to thicken the soup slightly.
4. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth, or leave some chunks for texture according to your preference.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese has melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then keep the soup warm on low heat.
6. For the croutons, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, toss the cubed bread with olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
7. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, tossing halfway through.
8. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with a handful of garlic croutons, and serve immediately. Enjoy with a side of assorted crackers if desired.

Helpful Tips

Variation: You can add a pinch of nutmeg to the soup for a warm, spicy note that pairs wonderfully with cheddar cheese.

Storage: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove. Store croutons separately in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.

Ingredient Substitutions: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheddar cheese.

Pairings

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Garlic Croutons pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a glass of chilled white wine or a warm mug of apple cider.

I hope this recipe brings as much warmth and joy to your family as it does to mine. Don’t forget to share your cozy bowls of Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Garlic Croutons using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. Your feedback means the world to us, so please leave a review on our website at www.zynahz.com. For more delicious inspiration, subscribe to our newsletter and follow Zynahz on social media. Happy cooking!