Broccoli Cheddar and Bacon Soup
Are you in search of a hearty soup that combines the rich flavors of cheese and bacon with the nutrition of broccoli? What if we told you that Broccoli Cheddar and Bacon Soup could be your go-to dish for a cozy night in? This deliciously creamy soup is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for any meal. In this post, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this comforting soup, complete with tips and tricks for the best results.
Ingredients List
To make a flavorful Broccoli Cheddar and Bacon Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- Fresh Broccoli (4 cups, chopped) – for a vibrant green color and nutrition
- Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – sharp or mild, depending on your preference
- Bacon (6 slices) – cooked and crumbled for that smoky flavor
- Onion (1 medium) – diced
- Garlic (3 cloves) – minced for added depth
- Vegetable Broth (4 cups) – or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – for a rich and creamy texture
- Butter (2 tablespoons) – for sautéing
- Flour (¼ cup) – to thicken the soup
- Salt and Pepper – to taste
Substitution Suggestions
- Bacon: Use turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian version.
- Heavy Cream: Substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option.
- Cheddar Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and place it on paper towels to drain. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add butter and heat over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Flour
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Add Broccoli
Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the chopped broccoli and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth, leaving some broccoli pieces for texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of it.
Step 6: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Return the pot to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon and extra cheese if desired. Enjoy your Broccoli Cheddar and Bacon Soup warm with crusty bread on the side.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (approximately 1 cup):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 12g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you want to make your Broccoli Cheddar and Bacon Soup even healthier, consider these alternatives:
- Reduce Cheese: Use less cheese or opt for a lower-fat cheese option.
- Add More Vegetables: Incorporate carrots or cauliflower for added nutrition.
- Use Low-Sodium Broth: This helps control the overall sodium content.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your Broccoli Cheddar and Bacon Soup experience with these serving suggestions:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm baguette or sourdough for dipping.
- Salad: Pair with a light garden salad for a balanced meal.
- Garnish: Top with additional bacon, cheese, or fresh herbs for an extra touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Broccoli Cheddar and Bacon Soup, keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and avoids additives.
- Overcooking Broccoli: Cook until just tender to maintain vibrant color and nutrients.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To maintain the freshness and flavor of your Broccoli Cheddar and Bacon Soup, follow these storing tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Conclusion
In summary, Broccoli Cheddar and Bacon Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that combines the goodness of broccoli with the indulgence of cheddar cheese and bacon. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a satisfying meal that warms the heart. Try this recipe today, and share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just add it directly to the pot without thawing.
2. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup instead of regular flour.
3. What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with a variety of sides, such as grilled cheese sandwiches or a fresh garden salad.
Broccoli Cheddar and Bacon Soup
Ingredients
- Fresh Broccoli (4 cups, chopped) – for a vibrant green color and nutrition
- Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – sharp or mild, depending on your preference
- Bacon (6 slices) – cooked and crumbled for that smoky flavor
- Onion (1 medium) – diced
- Garlic (3 cloves) – minced for added depth
- Vegetable Broth (4 cups) – or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – for a rich and creamy texture
- Butter (2 tablespoons) – for sautéing
- Flour (¼ cup) – to thicken the soup
- Salt and Pepper – to taste
- Substitution Suggestions
- Bacon: Use turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian version.
- Heavy Cream: Substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option.
- Cheddar Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and place it on paper towels to drain. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add butter and heat over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Flour
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Add Broccoli
Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the chopped broccoli and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth, leaving some broccoli pieces for texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of it.
Step 6: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Return the pot to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.