Description
Broccoli Cheddar Soup delivers creamy comfort straight from farmhouse kitchens, blending rich Wisconsin cheddar with fresh garden broccoli. Hearty spoonfuls promise warmth and satisfaction that will transport you to a cozy culinary embrace.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Vegetables:
- 6 cups broccoli florets (from 1 large head)
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Cheese:
- 2 cups grated sharp white/yellow cheddar cheese (plus more for garnish)
- 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese (light or regular)
- 1 ¼ cups half-and-half
- 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) unsalted butter
Liquid, Seasonings, and Thickeners:
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 bay leaves
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- Coarse salt
- Freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- Gather a robust saucepan and melt butter over medium heat, introducing minced garlic, sea salt, and cracked black pepper. Sauté until aromatic and flavors blend harmoniously.
- Incorporate uncooked rice, fresh spinach leaves, water, precisely of coarse salt, and ground black pepper. Elevate temperature until liquid reaches a vigorous boil, then reduce heat and allow mixture to gently simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes.
- Use a fork to delicately fluff and separate rice grains. Fold in half-and-half cream, diced tomatoes, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Calibrate seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste. If mixture appears overly dense, introduce extra half-and-half to achieve desired consistency.
- Activate oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully slice zucchinis lengthwise and meticulously remove inner seeds, creating elegant hollow vessels.
- Generously fill zucchini boats with prepared rice mixture. Position carefully in roasting pan or baking sheet, ensuring even spacing. Bake for 20-25 minutes until zucchinis transform into tender, golden-edged vehicles of deliciousness.
- Conclude by sprinkling additional Parmesan cheese atop each zucchini boat. Serve immediately and savor the culinary creation.
Notes
- Prepare all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Choose fresh, vibrant broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor development.
- Chop vegetables uniformly to guarantee consistent cooking and attractive presentation.
- Adjust consistency by adding more broth if soup becomes too thick during simmering.
- Store leftover soup in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days for quick reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg