If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup is the perfect dish to warm you up. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with broccoli, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Made with simple ingredients and easy to prepare, this soup will quickly become a family favorite. Whether it’s a cold winter night or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is bound to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can have a delicious soup ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Creamy and Cheesy: Velveeta brings that rich, cheesy flavor that melts perfectly into the soup.
- Comforting and Satisfying: This is the ultimate comfort food, filled with nutritious broccoli and creamy cheese.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a great way to get everyone, even picky eaters, to enjoy their vegetables.
Ingredients for Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup
For the Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen broccoli, thawed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)
For Serving:
- Crusty bread or rolls (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by washing the broccoli florets. If using fresh broccoli, cut them into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and drained.
Step 2: Cook the Onion
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Broccoli
Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Step 4: Add Velveeta and Milk
Lower the heat and add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted completely and the soup becomes creamy. Add the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Blend and Serve
For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend some or all of the soup. For a chunkier texture, leave it as is. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Pair with Simply Sandwich Bread or a side of Shakshuka for a delicious meal.
Tips for the Best Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup
1. Fresh or Frozen Broccoli
You can use either fresh or frozen broccoli for this recipe. Fresh broccoli will give the soup a slightly crisper texture, while frozen broccoli is convenient for a quicker meal.
2. Control the Creaminess
For a creamier soup, use whole milk or even half-and-half. If you prefer a lighter version, skim milk or low-fat milk works well too.
3. Customize with Toppings
Add crispy bacon bits, extra shredded cheddar, or a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence.
4. Blend for Desired Texture
If you prefer a smooth soup, blend it completely. For a chunkier soup, blend only a portion, leaving some broccoli florets intact.
Variations on Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup
1. Add Chicken
For a heartier meal, add cooked, shredded chicken to the soup before serving. It adds extra protein and makes it even more satisfying.
2. Spicy Broccoli Cheese Soup
Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the soup a little kick.
3. Gluten-Free Option
If you need to make this recipe gluten-free, ensure your chicken broth and Velveeta cheese are labeled gluten-free, and skip serving it with bread.
What to Serve with Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup
1. Simply Sandwich Bread
For a soft, homemade bread option, try our Simply Sandwich Bread, perfect for dipping in the creamy soup.
2. Shakshuka
For a different twist on comfort food, pair this cheesy soup with Shakshuka for a delightful meal with vibrant flavors.
3. Fresh Salad
A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 30g
- Sodium: 1100mg
This Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup is rich and creamy, making it the perfect comfort meal for any occasion.
FAQ for Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup
1. Can I use a different cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes! You can use shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses. However, Velveeta melts smoothly and creates a creamy texture, so the soup may not be as smooth if you substitute it.
2. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
3. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance and reheated. The soup may thicken when stored, so you may need to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
It’s best not to freeze this soup because the dairy may separate upon reheating. If freezing is necessary, blend the soup for better results.
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