Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and creamy dish that everyone will love. This vegan version captures all the rich flavors of the classic without any dairy. Perfect for cozy dinners or a warm lunch, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying. Enjoy it with crusty bread or croutons for a delightful meal that is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The blend of broccoli and vegan cheddar creates a rich, satisfying texture that’s perfect for chilly days.
• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Healthy Alternative: This vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup uses natural ingredients, making it a guilt-free option for your family.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or alongside sandwiches for a complete meal that fits various occasions.
• Kid-Friendly: Packed with veggies, this soup is a fun way to get kids to enjoy their greens!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• High-speed blender
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend perfectly.
• High-speed blender: Helps create that creamy texture by blending part of the soup effortlessly.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pots while ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup was a family favorite before going vegan. We made a much healthier yet just as delicious (maybe even better!) vegan version!

For the Base

• 1 cup white onions (chopped)
• 1 clove garlic (finely diced)
• 1/4 cup vegan butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

For the Broth

• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 4 cups rice milk (plain, unsweetened)

For the Veggies

• 3 heaping cups broccoli (finely chopped)
• 1 1/2 heaping cups julienned carrots

For Flavor

• 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese
• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Melt the vegan butter in a large pot over medium heat. This will form the base of your soup.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onions and finely diced garlic. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Mix in the all-purpose flour. Stir until fully incorporated, creating a smooth roux that will thicken your soup.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Whisk in the vegetable broth and rice milk, ensuring there are no lumps from the roux. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Bring to Boil

Increase heat until the mixture comes to a boil, then reduce it back to medium heat.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Stir in the finely chopped broccoli and julienned carrots. Cook for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Incorporate Cheese

Add in your favorite vegan cheddar cheese, such as Follow Your Heart. Stir continuously until melted and creamy.

Step 8: Blend for Creaminess

Remove about 1/4 of the soup from the pot. Using a high-speed blender, blend until creamy. Return it to the pot and mix well.

Step 9: Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Serve hot with croutons or crusty bread for dipping!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be an enjoyable experience, not just for you but for your guests too. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this creamy, comforting dish.

Crusty Bread Bowl

• A bread bowl is a fun way to serve soup. Simply hollow out a round loaf of bread and fill it with hot broccoli cheddar soup.

Topped with Croutons

• Adding croutons enhances the texture. Choose crispy, seasoned croutons for extra flavor on top of your soup.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives can elevate the dish. These herbs add a pop of color and freshness to the creamy soup.

Served with a Salad

• Pairing the soup with a side salad makes for a balanced meal. Consider a light mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette.

Accompanied by Sandwiches

• A sandwich complements the soup perfectly. Try grilled cheese or a veggie wrap for a complete comfort food experience.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness. It also enhances the flavor profile of your broccoli cheddar soup.

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How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To make your Broccoli Cheddar Soup truly exceptional, consider these handy tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and carrots provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
• Make it creamy: For an extra creaminess, blend some of the soup before serving. This gives it a velvety texture.
• Add spice: A pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper can elevate the taste and add warmth to your broccoli cheddar soup.
• Experiment with cheese: Different brands of vegan cheese melt differently. Test various brands to find your favorite.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the best flavor balance.
• Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld flavors together beautifully, making every spoonful delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Broccoli Cheddar Soup enhances the meal experience. Here are some great suggestions that work well together.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread adds a crunchy contrast and is great for dipping.
2. Caesar Salad: This classic salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing that balances the richness of the soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies provide a hearty addition to your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring extra vitamins and nutrients while complementing the flavors of the soup.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a hit. Season them simply or spice them up for added flavor.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh veggies contributes protein and freshness alongside the creamy soup.
7. Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips are perfect for dipping into your warm bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites, adding sweetness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the roux: A roux thickens the soup and adds depth. Make sure to cook the flour with the butter until it’s fully incorporated.
• Using low-quality cheese: Not all vegan cheeses melt well. Choose a high-quality brand like Follow Your Heart for the best results.
• Overcooking vegetables: Overcooked broccoli and carrots lose their flavor and texture. Cook them just until tender for a fresher taste.
• Neglecting seasoning: Salt and pepper enhance flavors. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust accordingly.
• Not blending enough: For a creamy texture, blend at least a portion of the soup. This step creates that signature smoothness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to leave some space in the container as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently on medium-low, stirring frequently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Broccoli Cheddar Soup, along with helpful answers.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. The texture will still be delicious!

What is the best vegan cheese for Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

We recommend brands like Follow Your Heart or Daiya, as they melt well and provide great flavor.

How can I customize my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Add spices like nutmeg or cayenne for extra flavor. You can also toss in other vegetables such as spinach or potatoes.

Is Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthy?

This vegan version is lower in calories and fat than traditional recipes but still packed with nutrients from broccoli and carrots.

Can I use almond milk instead of rice milk?

Absolutely! Almond milk works well, but choose an unsweetened variety to keep flavors balanced.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite. It’s cozy, nutritious, and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Whether you enjoy it with croutons or fresh bread, you’re bound to love this heartwarming dish!