Print

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Bread Bowl

broccoli cheddar soup bread bowl - featured image
Print Recipe

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup served in a sourdough bread bowl is the ultimate comfort food for cozy nights. Packed with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a velvety base, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick, easy, and perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free blend if needed)
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
  • 2 cups whole milk (or 2% or dairy-free milk)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped (about 350g; frozen works in a pinch)
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and grated (about 120g)
  • 2 1/2 cups extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 250g)
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated (optional, about 45g)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 4 round sourdough bread loaves, about 5–6 inches wide
  • Extra cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)
  • Chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)
  • Crumbled bacon (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice off the top of each bread loaf and gently hollow out the center, leaving about 1/2-inch thick walls. Save the tops and extra bread for dipping.
  2. Place bread bowls on a baking sheet and warm in the oven for 5 minutes to crisp the insides (optional if bread is fresh and crusty).
  3. In a large soup pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes until the flour is golden and has a nutty smell.
  5. Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring. Add milk and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  6. Stir in broccoli and grated carrots. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until broccoli is tender but not mushy.
  7. Lower heat to low. Stir in cheddar and parmesan in batches, letting each addition melt before adding more. Stir until the soup is smooth and creamy.
  8. Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  9. Ladle soup into warm bread bowls. Top with extra cheese, fresh herbs, or bacon if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free bread bowls. For vegetarian, use vegetable broth and skip bacon garnish. Freshly grated cheese melts best. If soup is too thick, add more broth or milk; if too thin, simmer uncovered. Blend half the soup for a smoother texture. Bread bowls are best served fresh; soup can be made ahead and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, bread bowl, comfort food, easy soup, family dinner, cozy recipe, vegetarian option, gluten-free option, creamy soup, winter recipe

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/creamy-broccoli-cheddar-soup-bread-bowl-recipe-for-cozy-nights/