Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and creamy dish that brings warmth to any table. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this vegan version of the classic Panera favorite captures all the deliciousness without any dairy. It’s rich in flavor, easy to make, and can be enjoyed on a chilly day or as a satisfying meal anytime. With its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to impress family and friends alike!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Vegetables
• Base
• Cheese & Seasoning
• How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Step 1: Melt the Butter
• Step 2: Cook Onions and Garlic
• Step 3: Create the Roux
• Step 4: Add Liquids
• Step 5: Bring to Boil
• Step 6: Add Vegetables
• Step 7: Incorporate Vegan Cheese
• Step 8: Blend for Creaminess
• Step 9: Season and Serve
• How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• With Croutons
• Side Salad
• Garlic Bread
• Topped with Extra Cheese
• With Fresh Herbs
• In a Bread Bowl
• 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
• Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?
• How do I add more flavor to my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
• Is this Broccoli Cheddar Soup kid-friendly?
• Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Twist: This vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup is made with wholesome ingredients that are kinder to your body.
• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or side dish; it pairs well with crusty bread, sandwiches, or salads.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it appealing for both kids and adults.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these on hand will ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly and allowing flavors to meld together.
• High-speed blender: Ensures a creamy consistency by blending part of the soup smoothly.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot while mixing ingredients.

Ingredients

Vegetables

• 1 cup white onions (chopped)
• 1 clove garlic (finely diced)
• 3 heaping cups broccoli (finely chopped)
• 1 1/2 heaping cups julienned carrots

Base

• 1/4 cup vegan butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 4 cups rice milk (plain, unsweetened)

Cheese & Seasoning

• 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 until it starts to bubble.

Step 2: Cook Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onions and diced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Stir in the all-purpose flour gradually. Mix well until fully incorporated into the butter, forming a roux.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Whisk in the vegetable broth followed by rice milk. Continue whisking until there are no lumps from the roux.

Step 5: Bring to Boil

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

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Once boiling, reduce heat back to medium. Add finely chopped broccoli and julienned carrots. Cook for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Incorporate Vegan Cheese

Stir in your favorite vegan cheddar cheese (we recommend Follow Your Heart). Keep stirring until melted completely into the soup.

Step 8: Blend for Creaminess

Carefully remove about one-fourth of the soup from the pot. Transfer it into a high-speed blender and blend until smooth. Pour this back into the pot and mix well.

Step 9: Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with croutons or crusty bread for a delightful meal!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving broccoli cheddar soup can be a delightful experience, enhancing both flavor and presentation. Whether you prefer a simple approach or a more elaborate setup, there are many ways to enjoy this creamy dish.

With Croutons

• Adding croutons provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the soup.

Side Salad

• A fresh side salad complements the richness of broccoli cheddar soup and adds a refreshing element to your meal.

Garlic Bread

• Serve with warm garlic bread for an indulgent pairing that is perfect for dipping.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional vegan cheddar cheese on top before serving for an extra cheesy delight.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with chopped parsley or chives for a burst of freshness and color.

In a Bread Bowl

• Serve your soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an impressive and rustic presentation.

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How to Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To ensure your broccoli cheddar soup reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality vegan cheese will enhance the flavors dramatically.
• Blend for creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a silky texture while keeping some chunks for added substance.
• Season well: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving—salt and pepper can elevate the flavors.
• Adjust thickness: If the soup is too thick, thin it out with more vegetable broth or rice milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with spices: Add spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper to introduce subtle warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
• Reheat gently: When reheating leftovers, do so slowly over low heat to maintain creaminess without curdling.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with broccoli cheddar soup enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty soup perfectly.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
   A classic choice; use vegan cheese between slices of toasted bread for a comforting combo.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients, making your meal heartier and healthier.

3. Quinoa Salad
   This light yet filling salad can be prepared with fresh vegetables, providing a nutritious balance to your meal.

4. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers stuffed with grains and veggies offer a colorful, flavorful dish that pairs well with creamy soups.

5. Baked Potatoes
   Fluffy baked potatoes topped with chives or vegan sour cream make an excellent side option.

6. Pasta Salad
   A cold pasta salad with olives, tomatoes, and herbs can refresh your palate against the rich flavors of the soup.

7. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins provide delightful contrast when served alongside savory broccoli cheddar soup.

8. Vegetable Spring Rolls
   Lightly fried or fresh spring rolls filled with crisp vegetables add brightness and crunch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using the wrong cheese – Always opt for high-quality vegan cheddar. It melts better and enhances flavor.
• Not cooking the vegetables enough – Ensure broccoli and carrots are tender. This brings out their natural sweetness.
• Rushing the roux – Take time to cook the flour with butter thoroughly. A good roux is key to a creamy soup.
• Ignoring seasoning – Don’t forget salt and pepper! Taste as you go to create a well-balanced flavor.
• Skipping the blending step – For a creamy texture, blend part of the soup. This step makes a huge difference in consistency.

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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 individual portions for easy reheating.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 20-30 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm on medium heat; stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Broccoli Cheddar Soup that might help you out.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free flour for your roux. This will keep the soup delicious without the gluten.

How do I add more flavor to my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Consider adding spices like nutmeg or smoked paprika. They can elevate the taste significantly.

Is this Broccoli Cheddar Soup kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it appealing for kids while being healthy.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli works perfectly and often provides a better texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding other vegetables or spices according to your taste. Enjoy this warm bowl of goodness any time of year!