Soup. It’s a simple word, but it evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and home. And while any soup can be satisfying, there’s something truly special about Broccoli Cheese Soup. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful, reminiscent of classic American home cooking and perhaps even inspired by the hearty style of the Pioneer Woman, then look no further. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious soup that’s perfect for chilly days or any time you crave a bowl of pure comfort.
A steaming bowl of creamy Pioneer Woman cheese broccoli soup, highlighting the melted cheddar and tender broccoli florets.
Many of us have memories tied to soup, perhaps from childhood or family gatherings. The idea of enjoying soup is often elevated when it comes served in a bread bowl. Imagine the delightful experience of not only savoring a rich, flavorful soup but also getting to eat the bowl itself! This whimsical and satisfying way to enjoy soup, especially broccoli cheese soup, can turn a simple meal into a memorable event, particularly for kids and those young at heart. Serving this Pioneer Woman-inspired cheese broccoli soup in bread bowls adds an extra layer of fun and flavor to an already fantastic dish.
An inviting image of Pioneer Woman cheese broccoli soup served in rustic bread bowls, showcasing the creamy texture and cheesy goodness.
Pioneer Woman Cheese Broccoli Soup Recipe
This recipe brings together tender broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese in a creamy, comforting base, creating a soup that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy lunch, this broccoli cheese soup is sure to become a new favorite in your home.
Course: Lunch, Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Author: Catherine McCord (Inspired by Pioneer Woman)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 heads broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
- Bread loaves for bowls (optional, for serving in bread bowls)
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
- Create a Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions. Use a whisk to combine the flour and butter, creating a roux. Cook this mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the whole milk and half-and-half, whisking continuously to ensure a smooth sauce and prevent lumps from forming.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg. Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let the soup simmer until the broccoli is tender and the soup has thickened, about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Adjust Consistency: Stir in the chicken broth. Check the soup’s consistency; it should be thick and creamy. If it’s still too thick for your liking, add a splash more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Melt in the Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and incorporated into the soup, creating a smooth and cheesy texture.
- Serve: Serve hot, either in regular bowls or, for a fun and hearty meal, in bread bowls.
Notes for the Best Pioneer Woman Cheese Broccoli Soup
- For a Smoother Soup: If you prefer an ultra-smooth texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup before adding the cheddar cheese. This is a great tip for achieving a restaurant-style creaminess.
- Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mild cheddar, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
- Make it Vegetarian: Ensure your chicken broth is vegetable broth to keep this recipe vegetarian.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 565kcal
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 109mg
- Sodium: 518mg
- Potassium: 1,296mg
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 15g
- Vitamin A: 3,081IU
- Vitamin C: 273mg
- Calcium: 667mg
- Iron: 3mg
