Click to rate this post!
[Total: 1 Average: 5]
Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup
Warm, comforting, and incredibly creamy, Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup is the ultimate go-to recipe for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or family gatherings. This easy-to-make soup combines tender broccoli florets with Velveeta cheese for a rich and cheesy bowl of goodness. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a satisfying main course, this dish promises to deliver bold flavors and a creamy texture every time.Perfect for beginner cooks or seasoned chefs, this recipe is both simple and versatile, allowing for additional toppings or mix-ins to suit your preferences.
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Ladle
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets about 2 medium heads
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese cubed
- ½ tsp ground mustard
- ½ tsp paprika optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Croutons
- Cooked crumbled bacon
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients
- Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
Add the Liquids
- Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Add the milk and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
Cook the Broccoli
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender.
Melt the Velveeta
- Reduce the heat to low and add the Velveeta cubes to the pot. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
Season the Soup
- Stir in the ground mustard, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Blend (Optional)
- For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some broccoli pieces intact.
Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar, croutons, or parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
Tips and Variations
- Use Frozen Broccoli: Save time by substituting fresh broccoli with frozen florets. Thaw and drain before adding to the soup.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or almond milk for a lighter version.
- Thicker Soup: For a heartier soup, increase the amount of Velveeta or add a handful of shredded cheddar.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, ham, or crumbled bacon for a protein boost.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Protein | 16g |
| Calcium | 35% of Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 50% of Daily Value |
Health Benefits
- Broccoli: Packed with vitamins C and K, broccoli supports immunity and bone health.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein for strong bones and muscles.
- Milk: A good source of essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and potassium.