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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup in Rustic Bread Bowls

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A rich, velvety broccoli cheddar soup ladled into hollowed-out rustic bread bowls, perfect for cozy chilly evenings. This recipe balances sharp cheddar and tender broccoli with a creamy base and crispy bread bowls.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped small (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk (can substitute 2% or non-dairy like oat milk)
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • 4 small or 2 large rustic round bread loaves (sourdough or country-style)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice off the top third of each bread loaf and hollow out the centers, leaving about a 1-inch thick shell. Place bread bowls and tops on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes to crisp the crust. Set aside.
  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the butter and onion mixture. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to cook out raw flour taste without browning.
  4. Slowly whisk in milk and broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add broccoli florets. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes until broccoli is tender but not mushy.
  5. Optional: Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup for a smoother texture, leaving some broccoli chunks.
  6. Lower heat to medium-low. Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Avoid boiling after adding cheese.
  7. Ladle hot soup into warm bread bowls. Serve immediately with bread tops on the side or slightly askew.

Notes

Bake bread bowls before filling to prevent sogginess. Melt cheese slowly on low heat to avoid grainy texture. For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and bread or skip bread bowls. Frozen broccoli is a good shortcut. Adjust seasoning gradually and add milk or broth if soup thickens too much while resting.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, bread bowls, creamy soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, rustic bread, cheesy soup

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/creamy-broccoli-cheddar-soup-in-rustic-bread-bowls-easy-recipe/