Broccoli Rice Cheese Soup Recipe: A Comforting, Creamy Delight

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a creamy, cheesy soup on a cold day, and Broccoli Rice Cheese Soup is the perfect dish to satisfy that craving. Packed with tender broccoli, hearty rice, and a rich cheese base, this soup is a one-pot wonder that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of soup that’s both nutritious and indulgent, offering a delicious balance of flavors and textures that make it the ultimate comfort food.

Whether you're serving it for lunch, dinner, or as part of a cozy holiday spread, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Let's dive into this creamy, cheesy goodness and learn how to make the perfect bowl of Broccoli Rice Cheese Soup.

Broccoli Rice Cheese Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into florets

• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown rice, depending on preference)

• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

• 1 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream for extra richness)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Crusty bread or crackers (for serving, optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant. The garlic and onions will form a flavorful base for the soup.

Step 2: Add the Broccoli

Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the broccoli to soften just slightly and absorb some of the flavors. You want the broccoli to retain its texture in the soup, so don’t overcook it at this stage.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if you prefer), and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp.

Once the broccoli is tender, you can use a potato masher to slightly mash some of the broccoli, leaving a few florets whole for texture. This helps thicken the soup while keeping the signature chunky texture.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Cream

Stir in the cooked rice and half-and-half (or cream, if you prefer a richer soup). Let the soup come back to a gentle simmer. The rice will add a hearty element to the soup and absorb some of the delicious flavors. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken and the flavors to combine.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a little at a time, until it melts smoothly into the soup. The cheese will add a creamy, cheesy richness that makes this soup truly indulgent. Stir continuously to make sure the cheese doesn’t clump.

Add the dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. You can also sprinkle in some paprika for a smoky depth if desired. Adjust the seasoning as necessary, depending on your taste preferences.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once the soup is perfectly creamy and cheesy, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete, comforting meal.

Why You'll Love This Broccoli Rice Cheese Soup:

1. Rich and Creamy

The cheddar cheese and half-and-half create a creamy, velvety texture that envelops the broccoli and rice. It’s rich but not too heavy, striking the perfect balance between indulgence and comfort.

2. Nutritious and Hearty

This soup offers a great way to get your veggies in, thanks to the broccoli. With the addition of rice, this soup becomes a satisfying, hearty meal that’s filling enough to stand on its own. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables, especially for picky eaters!

3. Simple to Make

This soup is super easy to put together and doesn’t require any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a pot of homemade soup that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

4. Customizable

While this recipe uses cheddar cheese, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Parmesan. You can also add a little hot sauce for a kick, or throw in some shredded chicken or crisped bacon for extra protein and flavor. The possibilities are endless!

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

Broccoli Rice Cheese Soup is a great meal prep option. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up, as it may thicken a bit in the fridge.

Final Thoughts:

This Broccoli Rice Cheese Soup is everything you need in a comforting meal. It’s rich, creamy, and cheesy, with the perfect balance of broccoli, rice, and seasonings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this soup is sure to hit the spot. It’s easy to make, flavorful, and will warm you up on even the coldest days.

So, the next time you’re craving something comforting and hearty, try making this soup—you won’t be disappointed!

Pin this recipe for later, or share it with friends and family who are always on the lookout for comforting, cheesy soups!