Cheesy broccoli and bacon soup

Ingredients

1 pound broccoli, chopped

1 onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the broccoli

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until it starts to soften. Remove the broccoli from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the onion and garlic

In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Make the roux

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.

Step 4: Add the broth and broccoli

Gradually pour in the broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Add the cooked broccoli back into the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is very tender.

Step 5: Blend the soup

Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a traditional blender and purée until smooth. Be cautious, as hot liquids can splatter.

Step 6: Add the cream and cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to cook and stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Season and serve

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a sprinkle of crumbled bacon. Enjoy!

Tips

• For a lighter version of this soup, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Feel free to add extra vegetables, such as cauliflower or carrots, to the soup for added flavor and texture.
• If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
• This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

This cheesy broccoli and bacon soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Whether enjoyed as a hearty lunch or a warming dinner, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.