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Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe in Sourdough Bread Bowl

creamy cheesy broccoli cheddar soup - featured image

A comforting and creamy broccoli cheddar soup served in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl, perfect for cozy dinners and easy to prepare in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (2% or full-fat)
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 large sourdough bread boule, hollowed out
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of nutmeg
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice off the top of the sourdough boule and hollow out the inside, leaving about a 1-inch thick shell. Set aside bread chunks. Place bread bowl and top on a baking sheet and warm in oven for 10 minutes to crisp slightly.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over the butter and onion mixture. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns light golden and raw flour taste is cooked off.
  4. Slowly whisk in 2 cups whole milk and 2 cups broth, breaking up any lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer until slightly thickened. Add more broth or milk if too thick.
  5. Add 4 cups broccoli florets and simmer until tender but still bright green, about 8-10 minutes. Partially mash some florets for creamier texture if desired.
  6. Remove pot from heat and stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese gradually until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add optional nutmeg or smoked paprika for extra depth.
  7. Ladle hot soup into warm sourdough bread bowl. Place bread top on the side and serve immediately. Enjoy soup with spoon and bread chunks for dipping.

Notes

Shred cheddar cheese fresh for best meltability. Cook the roux until golden to avoid raw flour taste. Avoid overheating cheese to prevent graininess. Use a whisk when adding liquids to prevent lumps. Season gradually as cheese adds saltiness. Frozen broccoli can be used to save prep time. For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and bread alternatives. For vegan, substitute dairy and broth accordingly.

Nutrition

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