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**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté the Vegetables:** In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. **Cook the Broccoli:** Add the broccoli florets to the pot and sauté for another 2-3 minutes. This will help bring out the flavors of the broccoli before adding the liquid.
3. **Add the Broth:** Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
4. **Blend the Soup (Optional):** If you prefer a smooth soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you like a chunkier texture, simply leave it as is or use a potato masher to gently mash some of the broccoli.
5. **Add the Milk and Cheese:** Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the milk, allowing it to warm through. Then, slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy.
6. **Season and Serve:** Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Once it’s at the perfect flavor, remove from heat and serve hot.
7. **Garnish (Optional):** For a little extra texture and flavor, top the soup with croutons, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil.
**Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup:**
– **Use Sharp Cheddar:** Sharp cheddar cheese gives this soup its signature bold flavor. For an extra creamy texture, you can mix in a little bit of cream cheese or half-and-half.
– **Fresh or Frozen Broccoli:** Fresh broccoli works great, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli will work just as well—just be sure to thaw and drain it before using.
– **Customize the Texture:** If you like your soup extra creamy, blend the soup until it’s smooth. For a chunkier version, leave some of the broccoli pieces intact.
– **Make It Your Own:** Add a dash of nutmeg or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of extra flavor. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can make a quick roux with flour and butter before adding the liquids.
**Why This Soup is a Winner:**
– **Comforting and Satisfying:** The rich, creamy base with the sharp cheddar and fresh broccoli is the ultimate comfort food combination. It’s the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out.
– **Kid-Friendly:** Kids love the mild, cheesy flavor, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. Plus, they can help with the stirring and garnishing!
– **Meal Prep Friendly:** This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it a great option for leftovers. You can even freeze it for later if you make a big batch.
**Conclusion**
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of **Broccoli Cheddar Soup** to hit the spot on a chilly day, and this quick and easy version ensures that you can enjoy this comforting classic in no time. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with the wholesome goodness of broccoli. Whether you’re looking for a speedy weeknight meal or a cozy lunch, this soup is sure to satisfy.
So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the comforting, delicious flavors of this **Broccoli Cheddar Soup**—it’s the kind of dish that everyone will love, and you’ll want to make over and over again.
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