Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting, creamy delight that warms your soul. This vegan version packs all the flavor of the classic Panera dish while being healthier and plant-based. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s an easy recipe that suits any occasion – from family gatherings to cozy nights in. With its rich texture and savory taste, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup will quickly become a household favorite!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base
• For the Liquid
• For the Vegetables
• For Flavor
• How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Step 1: Melt the Butter
• Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
• Step 3: Create the Roux
• Step 4: Whisk in Liquids
• Step 5: Bring to Boil
• Step 6: Add Vegetables
• Step 7: Incorporate Cheese
• Step 8: Blend for Creaminess
• Step 9: Season and Serve
• How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Croutons
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• Served in a Bread Bowl
• With Side Salads
• Accompanied by Vegan Sandwiches
• How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
• Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?
• How do I thicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
• Can I add other vegetables to my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with broccoli and carrots, this vegan soup is loaded with vitamins while still being indulgently creamy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread or croutons for a heartier meal.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this flavorful twist on a classic dish, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch ahead of time and store it for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools at hand is essential. Gather these items before you start whipping up your delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• High-speed blender
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for cooking and combining all ingredients thoroughly.
• High-speed blender: Ensures a creamy texture by blending part of the soup to perfection.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

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 Liquid

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

For the Vegetables

• 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 butter in a large pot over medium heat until it’s bubbling gently.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Stir in the chopped onions and finely diced garlic. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they become translucent.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Add in the flour, mixing well until fully incorporated. This step creates a roux that will thicken your soup.

Step 4: Whisk in Liquids

Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth and rice milk until there are no lumps remaining from the roux.

Step 5: Bring to Boil

Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Once boiling, reduce heat back to medium. Stir in finely chopped broccoli and julienned carrots. Let cook for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Incorporate Cheese

Add your favorite vegan cheddar cheese (we recommend Follow Your Heart) into the pot. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.

Step 8: Blend for Creaminess

Remove about one-fourth of the soup from the pot. Pour it into your high-speed blender and blend until creamy. Return it back to the pot and stir well to combine.

Step 9: Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with croutons or crusty bread on the side for added texture! Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli cheddar soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty dinner, there are numerous serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. The bread will soak up the creamy soup and add texture.

Topped with Croutons

• Add a handful of croutons on top for an extra crunch. This contrast makes each spoonful delightful.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh touch. This adds flavor and makes the soup visually appealing.

Served in a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. It’s not just a dish; it’s part of the meal!

With Side Salads

• A light side salad complements the richness of broccoli cheddar soup. Choose a simple green salad or a Caesar salad for balance.

Accompanied by Vegan Sandwiches

• Enjoy your soup alongside vegan sandwiches, like grilled cheese or veggie wraps. This combination makes for a satisfying lunch.

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How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the perfect broccoli cheddar soup is all about technique and ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and carrots enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Make Your Own Vegetable Broth: Homemade broth can add depth and richness that store-bought options may lack.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adding salt and pepper gradually helps achieve the desired flavor profile.
• Blend for Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, blend part of the soup as described in the recipe.
• Experiment with Cheese: Different brands of vegan cheese can create varying flavors; try several to find your favorite!
• Consider Add-Ins: Feel free to include other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach for added nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli cheddar soup pairs well with various sides that complement its creamy goodness. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for dipping into the rich flavors of the soup.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed veggies, such as green beans or asparagus, can provide freshness and balance.
3. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette adds protein and brightness to your meal.
4. Veggie Chips: Crunchy veggie chips offer an alternative texture, making for an interesting pairing.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Baked bell peppers filled with rice and beans provide heartiness alongside your soup.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich broccoli cheddar soup.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned well can make for an indulgent yet tasty side dish.
8. Vegan Sushi Rolls: Light sushi rolls filled with avocado and cucumber can add an unexpected twist to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but some common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking broccoli: This can make the broccoli mushy. Cook it just until tender for the best texture.
• Skipping the roux: Not making a roux can result in a soup that lacks creaminess. Always cook flour with butter before adding liquids.
• Using cold liquids: Cold vegetable broth or rice milk can shock the mix and affect texture. Warm them up slightly before adding.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Not blending enough: A chunky consistency may not be ideal for everyone. Blend a portion of the soup to achieve a creamy texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• It’s best consumed within 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, stirring frequently until warmed through; this preserves texture better.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy soup made with fresh broccoli, cheddar cheese, and often includes onions and carrots. It’s comforting and delicious!

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly, using plant-based ingredients like vegan butter and cheese.

How do I thicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

To thicken your soup, you can blend part of it or add more flour when making the roux.

Can I add other vegetables to my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes! Feel free to include vegetables such as cauliflower or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the seasonings. Give it a try for your next meal; you won’t be disappointed!