There’s nothing quite like the aroma of creamy, cheesy goodness wafting through your kitchen. Imagine a warm bowl of Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup, complete with vibrant green broccoli and a velvety texture that hugs your taste buds. perfect holiday pairing This soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy evenings or those days when you need an extra dose of comfort. comfort food in a bowl.
Picture this: it’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, and you’ve just come home from an epic grocery run. You’ve got bags filled with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, ready to create a masterpiece. You pop open your Instant Pot, and suddenly, the kitchen transforms into a culinary wonderland. This soup is ideal for sharing on chilly nights or serving as the star of your lunch lineup. Trust me; it’s going to become your new favorite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
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- <p>This soup is incredibly easy to whip up, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish
- The rich flavor profile balances earthy broccoli with sharp cheddar, creating an irresistible dish. <a href="https://recipesnew.com/irresistible-quick-and-easy-cinnamon-rolls-recipe/">sweet side dish</a> Its vibrant green color adds visual appeal that brightens up any table setting
- Plus, you can easily customize it by adding extra veggies or spices based on your taste!</p>
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After making this soup for my family, they declared me the “Queen of Comfort Food,” and I’ve been basking in that glory ever since!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: savory potato side dish.
- Fresh Broccoli: Look for firm stalks with tight florets; they should be bright green for the best flavor.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Aged cheddar packs more flavor; grate it yourself for the creamiest texture.
- Onion: Choose a medium onion; it adds sweetness as it cooks down.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will give your soup that aromatic kick; don’t skimp on the garlic!
- Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while letting the flavors shine.
- Heavy Cream: For that luscious mouthfeel; feel free to substitute with milk for a lighter version.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Cornstarch (optional): If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix cornstarch with water before adding it to the soup.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by washing and chopping the broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Dice your onion and mince garlic while imagining how incredible this soup will taste.
Sautéing Aromatics: Turn on your Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Add some oil and toss in onions until they turn translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes should do.
Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic until it becomes aromatic—about 30 seconds is enough time to awaken its flavors without burning.
Add Broccoli and Broth: Toss in chopped broccoli and pour in vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir to combine those beautiful flavors.
Pressure Cook: Close the lid securely and set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 8 minutes. Let it work its magic while you daydream about how delicious dinner will be.
Create Creamy Goodness: Once cooked, release pressure carefully. Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender in batches if necessary.
Add Cheese and Cream: Stir in grated cheddar cheese and heavy cream until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper based on preference.
Now you have an irresistible bowl of Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup ready for devouring! For more inspiration, check out this shrimp and broccoli pasta recipe.
Enjoy every last spoonful of this delightful dish!
You Must Know
- Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, cheesy, and ready in a flash
- This comforting dish warms the soul, and you can easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste
- Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and freezes well for those busy days
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve velvety soup, sauté onions and garlic first before adding broccoli, broth, and seasonings. This enhances flavor significantly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cheddar for your favorite cheese or add spices like nutmeg for a unique twist. Experimenting is half the fun!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove for optimal creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking broccoli; it should be tender but not mushy
- Blend soup until smooth for a luxurious texture
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning as needed
Sharing this delightful Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup with friends turned into a cozy evening filled with laughter and compliments.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli in my Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly; just reduce cooking time slightly.
What type of cheese is best for broccoli cheddar soup?
Sharp cheddar adds depth, but feel free to mix in Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
How do I make my soup thicker?
For a thicker consistency, blend more slowly or add a cornstarch slurry while cooking.