Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Delight
Indulge in this creamy and delicious Cheesy Broccoli Soup that pairs the rich flavors of cheddar and parmesan with the nutritious goodness of broccoli. Perfect for a cozy night in or a delightful starter for a dinner party, this soup balances comfort and taste seamlessly. Easy to prepare in just a few simple steps, it's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress. Whether you’re enjoying it as a family meal or sharing with friends, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
country gravy mix
1 (2 3/4 ounce) packet (Prepare according to package instructions)
cool water
1/2 cup (None)
water
1 1/2 cups (None)
frozen broccoli
2 cups (Thawed)
grated cheddar cheese
2 cups (None)
parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons (None)
milk
1 1/2 cups (None)
shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon (For garnish)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine the country gravy mix with 1/2 cup of cool water, whisking until smooth. Set aside for later use.
2
In a medium saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups of water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
3
Once the water is boiling, slowly pour in the mixed gravy mixture while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens.
4
Reduce the heat to medium and gently fold in the thawed broccoli, stirring to combine.
5
Add the grated cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and milk to the pot. Stir well, allowing the cheeses to melt and combine fully with the soup. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
6
Let the soup simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and creamy.
7
Carefully ladle the soup into large bowls. Garnish each serving with 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Delight?
It is a rich and comforting soup that combines the flavors of cheddar and parmesan cheese with nutritious broccoli in a creamy base.
What are the primary ingredients for this soup?
The main ingredients include country gravy mix, water, frozen broccoli, cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and milk.
How long does it take to simmer the soup?
Once all ingredients are combined, the soup should simmer for 5-7 minutes until heated through and creamy.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli, but it is recommended to steam or blanch it first to ensure it reaches the proper tenderness in the soup.
Is this broccoli soup recipe vegetarian?
The recipe is vegetarian as long as the country gravy mix you choose does not contain meat-based fats or flavorings.
How do I prevent lumps when adding the gravy mix?
Whisk the gravy mix with cool water first, then whisk it vigorously as you pour it into the boiling water to ensure a smooth consistency.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
This recipe calls for grated cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese, with extra shredded cheddar for garnish.
Can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of milk added to the pot to achieve your desired thickness.
Do I need to thaw the frozen broccoli?
Yes, the instructions recommend folding in thawed broccoli to ensure even heating and proper texture.
What serves as the base for this creamy soup?
A country gravy mix combined with water and milk serves as the savory, creamy base for this dish.
How should I garnish the soup before serving?
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with one tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese.
Can I use different types of milk?
Yes, you can use whole milk for more richness or lower-fat milk for a lighter version, though the consistency may vary.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, the mild, cheesy flavor and creamy texture make it a very kid-friendly meal.
What equipment do I need to make this soup?
You will need a small bowl for mixing the gravy, a medium saucepan, and a whisk.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Delight?
While you can freeze it, dairy-based soups may separate slightly upon thawing; stir well while reheating to restore the texture.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients total, including the water and garnish.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Yes, cauliflower or diced carrots would make excellent additions to this cheesy base.
What can I serve with this broccoli soup?
It pairs perfectly with crusty bread, a light green salad, or garlic knots.
Is this soup a good choice for a dinner party?
Absolutely, it works well as a comforting starter or a main course for a casual gathering.
How do I reheat the soup?
Reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short intervals.
Can I use sharp cheddar instead of mild?
Yes, sharp cheddar is often preferred as it provides a more robust cheese flavor against the broccoli.
What is the first step in making this recipe?
The first step is whisking the gravy mix with 1/2 cup of cool water in a small bowl until smooth.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
While designed for the stovetop, you could adapt it by adding the ingredients to a slow cooker, though the gravy mix should still be whisked separately first.
Does the recipe require salt and pepper?
The gravy mix and cheeses usually provide enough salt, but you can add pepper to taste during the simmering stage.
How do I make the soup even creamier?
You can substitute a portion of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half for an extra indulgent texture.
Can I use a blender to make it a smooth soup?
Yes, if you prefer a smooth texture over chunks of broccoli, use an immersion blender before adding the final garnish.
Is this recipe quick to make?
Yes, because it uses frozen broccoli and a pre-packaged mix, it can be prepared in under 20 minutes.
What is the role of parmesan cheese in this recipe?
Parmesan adds a salty, savory depth that complements the creaminess of the cheddar and milk.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of water?
Yes, substituting water with vegetable broth will add more complexity and flavor to the final soup.