When it comes to comfort food, few dishes have the power to warm you up like a good bowl of soup. And in the world of soups, Kneaders’ Broccoli Cheddar Soup reigns supreme. With its creamy texture, vibrant green color, and a delightful balance of savory flavors, this soup has become a fan favorite across many households. Whether you’re looking for a cozy lunch, a light dinner, or a dish that can easily be doubled for meal prep, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup checks all the boxes.
What makes Kneaders’ Broccoli Cheddar Soup stand out is not just the delicious flavor but the heartiness of the broccoli paired with the richness of melted cheddar. It’s satisfying yet light, making it a great option for both indulgence and nutrition. Now, let’s take a deep dive into how you can recreate this mouthwatering recipe in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
This recipe will guide you through the process of making Kneaders’ famous Broccoli Cheddar Soup, where you’ll be able to blend fresh, nutritious ingredients into a silky-smooth, creamy soup. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to please.
Ingredients Needed
To make this creamy, hearty soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Fresh Broccoli: 3 cups of chopped broccoli florets. The broccoli is the star of the dish, offering a subtle crunch and green vibrancy.
- Butter: 1/4 cup. You need this for sautéing and building the base flavor.
- Onion: 1 small onion, finely chopped. This adds a delicate sweetness to the broth.
- Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced. It brings a bold punch of flavor that complements the cheesy goodness.
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup. This thickens the soup and gives it that perfect creamy consistency.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 4 cups. Choose whichever you prefer. Chicken broth adds a deeper flavor, while vegetable broth keeps it entirely plant-based.
- Milk: 1 1/2 cups. Whole milk or heavy cream is ideal, but you can adjust based on how rich you want the soup to be.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups. The cheese is what makes this soup so creamy and flavorful. Use a good-quality sharp cheddar for the best result.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. These are essential for seasoning.
- Carrots: 1 medium carrot, grated. Optional, but adds a little extra texture and sweetness.
- Nutmeg (optional): A pinch. Adds a subtle, warm flavor that complements the cheese and broccoli.
Cooking Instructions
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Sauté The Veggies
- In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
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Create The Base
- Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and garlic. Stir constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
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Add Broth And Milk
- Slowly pour in the broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Then, add the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
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Incorporate The Broccoli And Carrots
- Add the chopped broccoli and grated carrots (if using) to the pot. Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli becomes tender.
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Add The Cheese
- Lower the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese fully melts and the soup becomes creamy and smooth.
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Season And Serve
- Season the soup with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg to taste. Serve hot with a slice of warm bread for dipping, and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
- Broccoli: Known for its high vitamin C and fiber content, broccoli is the perfect ingredient to add nutrition to this otherwise indulgent soup. Not only does it offer a beautiful green hue, but it’s also packed with antioxidants.
- Cheddar Cheese: The key to that signature richness and creaminess, cheddar is a favorite among cheese lovers. Sharp cheddar works best for this recipe because it adds an extra layer of flavor, which balances the richness of the soup.
- Milk and Cream: While milk creates the creamy texture, adding a splash of heavy cream can make the soup feel even more luxurious. If you’re watching your calories, opt for skim or low-fat milk.
- Butter: This acts as the base for the soup’s flavor. Its rich, slightly nutty flavor really enhances the depth of the soup.
- Flour: The flour helps to thicken the soup and make it smooth. You could substitute with cornstarch if needed, but flour tends to work better in creating the creamy texture.
Expert Tips
- Cheese Quality Matters: Always use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli can turn mushy and lose its vibrant green color. Keep an eye on it as it simmers, making sure to remove it from the heat as soon as it’s fork-tender.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick for your liking, simply add more milk or broth until you reach the desired consistency.
- Add a Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the soup for a spicy kick that balances out the richness of the cheese.
Recipe Variations
- Vegan Option: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk (like oat or almond milk) and vegan cheese. Replace butter with olive oil, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spicy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. The creamy cheddar helps mellow the heat while still allowing the spices to shine through.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, turkey, or even some crumbled bacon. This adds both protein and extra flavor.
- Roasted Garlic: For an even deeper garlic flavor, roast the garlic ahead of time. Roasted garlic has a sweeter, milder flavor that can add a nice layer of complexity to the soup.
Final Words
This Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is incredibly flexible and adaptable to personal tastes. Whether you’re looking to keep it traditional or give it a little twist, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Its simplicity allows for the natural flavors of the broccoli and cheese to really shine through, while the creamy texture brings everything together. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy bowl on a chilly night or preparing for a family dinner, this recipe is a keeper.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
The ingredients for Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup typically include fresh broccoli, carrots, onions, butter, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, and seasoning such as salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Can I Make Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, to make Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and use a plant-based cream or milk alternative if desired.
How Do I Thicken Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
The soup is typically thickened with a roux, which is a mixture of flour and butter. You can also use cornstarch or additional heavy cream to reach your desired thickness.
Can I Freeze Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. To maintain the best texture, freeze the soup without the cheese and add it in after reheating. Dairy-based soups can sometimes separate after freezing, so stirring well upon reheating is important.
What Type Of Cheese Is Used In Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup uses sharp cheddar cheese for its bold flavor. You can also blend it with mild cheddar for a creamier texture.
Can I Add Extra Vegetables To Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, or spinach to Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup for added texture and flavor. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.
How Do I Make Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Slow Cooker?
To make the soup in a slow cooker, combine all the ingredients except for the cheese and heavy cream. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Before serving, stir in the cream and cheese until melted and smooth.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli In Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup.
How Do I Make Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup Spicier?
To add heat to the soup, you can stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or a small amount of hot sauce. Adjust the amount based on your desired spice level.
How Long Does Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup Take To Cook?
Kneaders Broccoli Cheddar Soup typically takes around 30-40 minutes to prepare and cook, depending on how quickly the vegetables are softened. If making in a slow cooker, it can take 4-6 hours on low.