Creamy Roasted Broccoli Soup with Cheddar Croutons: The Cozy Comfort You Need

Are you searching for a recipe that soothes the soul while packing a nutritious punch? Look no further because Creamy Roasted Broccoli Soup with Cheddar Croutons is here to save the day! This delightful dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want something quick, easy, and heartwarming to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Roasted Broccoli Soup

Let’s face it—a warm bowl of soup can feel like a hug from the inside. This Creamy Roasted Broccoli Soup is not only delicious; it’s incredibly simple to whip up. Plus, the cheddar croutons add that cheesy, crunchy goodness we all crave! Trust me, it’s like having a fancy restaurant dish right in your kitchen without breaking a sweat.

So, grab your apron (and maybe a glass of wine), and let’s dive into this comforting recipe that celebrates one of our favorite green veggies!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this dreamy dish:

For the Soup:
- 4 cups of broccoli florets (about two large heads)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A squeeze of lemon juice (trust me, it elevates everything!)
For the Cheddar Croutons:
- 2 cups of bread, cubed (using leftover baguette or any bread you have works great!)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste

Steps to Culinary Bliss

Preheat your oven: Set it to 425°F (220°C). Your kitchen will soon be filled with heavenly aromas—just wait for it!
Roast the broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden. This roasting process enhances their delicious flavor to make your soup sing!
Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, add a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Warning: you might attract a few kitchen visitors with that delectable scent!
Combine and simmer: Once your broccoli is ready, add it to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
Blend it up: Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring to a regular blender), blend until smooth. You want it to feel creamy and luscious—like a cloud on your spoon!
Add cream and seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Your soup is practically begging to be devoured!
Prepare the croutons: In a bowl, mix the cubed bread with melted butter, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the cheddar cheese. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
Top with cheese: When the croutons come out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top and pop them back in the oven for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and irresistible!

Cooking Tips

Don’t sweat the small stuff: If your soup gets a little thicker than you’d like, add more broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency. This isn’t rocket science—this is comfort food!
Storage tip: Leftovers? Store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors marry! Just reheat gently on the stove.

Personal Story

You know, I stumbled upon this recipe while trying to feed my kids something green that didn’t end in a negotiation. Imagine my surprise when not only did they enjoy the creamy goodness, but they actually fought over the cheesy croutons! Now this soup is a regular feature at our table, and it often sparks laughter and love during dinner. There’s nothing like a meal that brings everyone together, right?

FAQs

Can I substitute the heavy cream in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to swap it for half-and-half or even almond milk for a dairy-free version.

How can I store leftovers?

Let the soup cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last about 3-4 days. Just reheat gently on the stove!

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Of course! While I prefer fresh for that roasted flavor, frozen broccoli works just fine in a pinch.

So there you have it! If you’re in need of a quick, delicious, and comforting dish, make this Creamy Roasted Broccoli Soup with Cheddar Croutons. It’s bound to become your family’s favorite. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into the mix for yourself or your loved ones.

Now, let’s get cooking, and if you want more cozy recipes, be sure to check out my family-friendly dishes and soothing smoothies on the blog. Happy cooking!

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Creamy Roasted Broccoli Soup is the perfect recipe for comfort and nutrition. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to meal. Try it today!