Craving a comforting bowl of warmth that’s both indulgent and nutritious? Look no further than this Decadent Broccoli Cheese Chowder! This creamy delight, bursting with fresh broccoli and rich cheddar, is the ultimate comfort food that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up this hearty chowder that’s perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner. Dive into the recipe below and discover how to transform simple ingredients into a soul-satisfying dish that everyone will adore!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the onion finely and measure out the broccoli florets. Shred the cheddar cheese if it is not pre-shredded, and have the milk and vegetable broth ready.
- In a large pot, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, add the chopped onion to the pot.
- Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent it from browning.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir them into the onions. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the broccoli to soften slightly.
- Pour in the 2 cups of vegetable broth, ensuring that the broccoli and onions are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- After the broccoli has cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
- Return the pot to low heat. Stir in the 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese has melted and the chowder is creamy.
- Season the chowder with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as necessary, keeping in mind that the cheese will add some saltiness.
- Once the chowder is heated through and creamy, remove it from the heat. Ladle the chowder into bowls and serve hot.
- Optional: Garnish with additional shredded cheese, a sprinkle of black pepper, or fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions and broccoli florets ahead of time. This way, you can jump right into cooking when you're ready.
- Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist.
- Adjust the Texture: If you prefer a chunkier chowder, blend only half of the soup. This adds a delightful contrast between creamy and textured bites.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the chowder while it simmers.
- Garnish for Presentation: Elevate your chowder by garnishing with additional shredded cheese, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if the chowder thickens.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 237kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 50mg
