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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup in Sourdough Bread Bowl

creamy broccoli cheddar soup - featured image

A cozy, creamy broccoli cheddar soup served in a crusty sourdough bread bowl, perfect for comforting meals and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 4 small round sourdough bread loaves

Instructions

  1. Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets (about 4 cups). Cut the tops off sourdough bread loaves and carefully scoop out the insides, leaving about a 1/2-inch thick shell. Set bread bowls aside.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent and soft.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
  4. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the butter, onion, and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, until bubbly and thickening but not browned.
  5. Slowly pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Then add 2 cups of whole milk. Continue stirring and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add broccoli florets to the pot and simmer for 10-12 minutes until tender but still bright green.
  7. Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
  8. Remove the pot from heat. Slowly stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. If soup is too thick, add a splash more milk or broth to reach desired consistency.
  9. Ladle the creamy broccoli cheddar soup into the hollowed sourdough bread bowls. Optionally, sprinkle extra cheddar on top.
  10. Serve hot with the bread lids on the side for dipping.

Notes

Cook the roux gently to avoid lumps. Do not boil after adding cheese to prevent graininess. Use sharp cheddar for best melt and flavor. Hollow bread bowls with about 1/2 inch thick walls to prevent leaking. If soup is too thick after adding cheese, whisk in extra broth or milk. Keep heat medium to low after adding cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, sourdough bread bowl, creamy soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, cheesy soup, cozy meals