Name: Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; Salt and black pepper to taste; 4 small round bread loaves (optional, for bread bowls)

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Hey y'all! If you're searching for the ultimate comfort food to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings, this Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option is exactly what you need. Imagine velvety, cheesy soup loaded with tender broccoli florets, all served in a warm, crusty bread bowl—it's pure cozy goodness! Whether you're hosting a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just need something quick and delicious for a chilly evening, this recipe has you covered. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option

Ultra-creamy and loaded with gooey cheddar for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd.

Customizable: serve in a classic bread bowl or your favorite soup mug.
Packed with nutritious broccoli and carrots for a hearty, wholesome meal.
Ready in under an hour with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option

4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
1 cup shredded carrots
1 small yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
2 cups whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
4 small round bread loaves (for bread bowls, optional)

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Chop broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. Dice the onion and shred the carrots if not pre-shredded.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat, melt butter.
Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until soft and translucent.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 2 minutes until a paste forms and the flour is golden.

Step 4: Add Broth and Veggies

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking to combine and avoid lumps.
Add broccoli florets and shredded carrots. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Increase heat to medium-high and bring mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until broccoli is fork-tender.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Lower heat to medium. Stir in the milk and simmer for another 5 minutes.
For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup directly in the pot, leaving some broccoli pieces for texture.

Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option

Step 6: Add Cheese

Gradually add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and soup is smooth and cheesy.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Prepare Bread Bowls (Optional)

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cut a circle from the top of each bread loaf and hollow out the inside, leaving about a 1-inch border.
Place bread bowls on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until slightly crisp.
Ladle hot soup into bread bowls and serve immediately.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Yields: 4-6 servings

Notes for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option

For extra creaminess, substitute half-and-half for whole milk.
Grate your own cheese for smooth melting; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents. Learn more about homemade cheese soups.

Adjust the soup thickness by adding more milk or broth as needed.

Variations on Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option

Low-Carb: Skip the bread bowl and use extra broccoli instead.
Vegan: Use non-dairy milk, vegan butter, and plant-based cheese.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions.

Required Equipment for Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Immersion blender (optional, for creamier texture)

Sharp knife and cutting board
Whisk and wooden spoon
Baking sheet (for bread bowls)

Storage Instructions for Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option

Allow soup to cool, then transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To freeze, pour cooled soup (without bread bowls) into freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. Bread bowls are best enjoyed fresh, as they become soggy when stored.

Serving Recommendations for Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option

Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Pair with a glass of chilled white wine or apple cider.

Top each bowl with extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or fresh chives for added flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option

Always use freshly grated cheese to avoid graininess in your soup. Read more about smooth cheese sauces.
Don’t boil the soup after adding the cheese or it may separate—keep it at a gentle simmer.

For extra flavor, toss the broccoli florets in a little olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes before adding to the soup. Discover broccoli's health benefits.

FAQ – Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option

Can I use frozen broccoli?: Yes! Thaw and drain well before adding to the soup to prevent excess water.
What cheese is best for Broccoli Cheese Soup?: Sharp cheddar offers the most robust flavor, but you can mix in Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even Gouda for variety.
How do I prevent my soup from becoming grainy?: Use freshly grated cheese and avoid boiling the soup after adding cheese—keep it at a gentle simmer for a creamy texture.

Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bread Bowl Option