Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup

I used to not like soup. Any kind of soup. At all. But Broccoli Cheddar Soup changed that. Maybe that’s because Broccoli Cheddar Soup is more like digging into a bowl full of cheese than a brothy Minestrone, but it changed everything for me. I love soup now, and I especially love this one — Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup.

Like its broccoli-cheddar cousin, it’s plenty cheesy and indulgent, but this one is also full of flavorful veggies to keep things balanced in both taste and texture. Cauliflower may be mild, but it’s a great addition here — it adds a touch of sweetness and a subtle nutty flavor, but it still lets that cheddar shine.

There is a time and a place for Velveeta but it’s not here. With flour, a combination of stock and half and half, and a good melting cheddar, you can get the ideal creamy-cheesy texture you want for a cheese soup. Chicken or vegetable stock works fine. You’ll also want an onion, some garlic, a carrot, about a head each of broccoli and cauliflower florets, some Dijon mustard, and two cups of grated cheddar. (Mild, medium, or sharp is up to you!)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup is not only comforting and delicious, but it also packs a nutritious punch with its blend of vegetables. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor will win over even those who claim not to like soup. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Grater

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 cups half and half, at room temperature
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 2 cups cauliflower florets, chopped
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until starting to soften, about 4 minutes. Add garlic, and continue cooking for 1 minute more.
2. Stir in flour, then continue stirring until flour starts to smell toasty, about 2 minutes.
3. Whisk in stock, then whisk in half and half, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir in broccoli, cauliflower, carrot, and mustard and bring to a gentle simmer. Let simmer until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Remove from heat, then stir in cheese by the handful until melted. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure your half and half is at room temperature before adding it to the soup. This helps prevent curdling. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency before adding the cheese.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor twist. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the broccoli and cauliflower. Each serving provides a hearty dose of fiber and protein, making it a satisfying meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Can I freeze this soup? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Can I make this soup vegan? Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative, use vegetable stock, and replace the half and half with a non-dairy milk. Choose a vegan cheese for the cheesy flavor.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup is a cozy and delicious way to warm up on a chilly day. Give it a try, and let us know how you enjoyed it! We’d love to hear your variations and tips, so don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below.