Save It A creamy, rich broccoli cheddar soup elevated with a spicy, garlicky chili crunch topping for extra depth and texture.
The first time I made this batch, the chili crunch transformed the classic broccoli cheddar soup into something bold and new. I couldn't stop going back for extra spoonfuls!
Ingredients
- Broccoli: 1 large head, cut into florets (about 4 cups)
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
- Carrots: 2 medium, peeled and diced
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Celery: 1 stalk, diced
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- Whole milk: 2 cups
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 2½ cups, shredded
- Low-sodium vegetable broth: 4 cups
- Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
- Ground black pepper: ½ tsp
- Kosher salt: ¾ tsp (plus more to taste)
- Ground nutmeg (optional): ¼ tsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Chili crunch: 4 tbsp (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh chives (optional): 2 tbsp, finely sliced
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics:
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add flour:
- Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for 2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
- Deglaze and simmer:
- Gradually whisk in vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps. Add broccoli, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, until broccoli is very tender.
- Blend soup:
- Use an immersion blender to puree soup until mostly smooth, leaving some small broccoli pieces for texture (or blend half and return to pot).
- Finish with dairy and cheese:
- Stir in milk and cream. Heat gently (do not boil). Gradually add cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle soup into bowls. Top each serving with chili crunch and sprinkle with fresh chives if desired.
Save It Every cold day, my family gathers around to enjoy this soup. The chili crunch is always a hit, and we always have fun experimenting with different bread pairings.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a crisp, dry Riesling. It's hearty enough for a main course, or serve smaller portions as a starter.
Flavor Variations
Add a splash of dry white wine with the broth for extra richness. Substitute half the cheddar with Gruyère for a nutty edge.
Make it Your Own
Try a different chili oil, swirl in a spoonful of sour cream, or toss in a handful of roasted mushrooms for even more flavor and texture.
Save It This soup is pure comfort in a bowl, with a spicy kick that makes it unforgettable. Warm, creamy, and full of flavor—try it tonight!
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables are used to build flavor?
Onion, carrot, celery, and garlic are gently sautéed to create a savory base that enhances the overall richness.
- → How is the texture balanced in the dish?
After pureeing most of the broccoli, some small florets remain intact to add pleasing bite and mouthfeel.
- → What gives the dish its creamy consistency?
Butter, whole milk, heavy cream, and shredded sharp cheddar meld together to create a smooth, velvety texture.
- → Can this be adapted for gluten-free diets?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch mixed with cold water to maintain thickness without gluten.
- → How does the chili crunch enhance the dish?
The chili crunch topping adds a spicy, garlicky note and crunchy texture, elevating the overall flavor profile.
- → What's a good pairing suggestion?
Pair with crusty bread or a crisp dry white wine like Riesling for a balanced meal experience.