The aroma of sautéing onions and garlic always fills my kitchen with warmth, but it’s when I add tender broccoli and creamy smoked Gouda that a culinary masterpiece truly begins to bubble. This Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is my secret weapon for those cozy evenings when I crave comfort food that doesn’t skimp on flavors or nutrition. With its velvety texture and smoky notes, this vegetarian delight is both indulgent and a wonderful way to sneak in some greens. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight dish that will impress your family and friends. Are you ready to transform your evening meals with this delicious bowl of soup? Why is this soup a must-try? Comforting, you’ll savor every spoonful of this creamy delight, perfect for chilly nights. Nutritious, packed with broccoli and carrots, it sneaks in healthy ingredients without compromising on taste. Versatile, you can customize with different cheeses or spice it up with a dash of hot sauce. Quick preparation means you can enjoy a hearty meal in no time. Lastly, crowd-pleasing, whether served on its own or with a comforting side like a grilled cheese sandwich, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table! Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Ingredients For the Base Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option. Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder taste. Garlic – Infuses aromatic flavors; always opt for fresh for the best results. All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup for a creamy texture; gluten-free flour works as a substitute. For the Soup Broth – Chicken or vegetable broth forms the base; homemade broth enhances the flavor. Whole Milk – Contributes creaminess; heavy cream or almond milk can offer alternatives. Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to the saltiness of the broth used. Paprika – Adds a smoky depth; choose smoked paprika for an extra flavor boost. Black Pepper – Provides warmth and bite; feel free to substitute with white pepper for a milder taste. For the Vegetables Broccoli Florets – The main component, essential for texture and nutrients; cauliflower can be used as a substitute. Carrot – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; sweet potato can also replace it for a different flavor. For the Star Ingredient Smoked Gouda Cheese – Delivers the signature smoky flavor and creamy texture; cheddar or Gruyère can be used if needed. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Step 1: Melt the Butter In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering and foamy (about 1-2 minutes), get ready to fill your kitchen with delicious aromas. This step sets a rich base for your flavorful Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup. Step 2: Sauté the Onions Add 1 diced onion into the melted butter and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent, about 4 minutes. The onions should soften and release their sweetness, creating a wonderful aroma that fills the air. Make sure to keep an eye on them to avoid browning. Step 3: Add Garlic Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s time to proceed when the garlic becomes fragrant and just begins to turn golden. This step enhances the savory depth of your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup, building layers of flavor. Step 4: Incorporate the Flour Sprinkle ¼ cup of all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. The mix will thicken slightly, providing a creamy consistency in your soup. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful velvety texture. Step 5: Add Broth and Milk Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and 1 cup of whole milk until smooth. Continue to stir for 2-3 minutes, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. As it thickens, the soup base will gain a wonderful creamy body, creating the perfect foundation for your vegetables. Step 6: Season and Simmer Season the soup with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Bring everything to a simmer over medium heat and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you prepare the next ingredients. Step 7: Add Vegetables Introduce 4 cups of chopped broccoli florets and 1 grated carrot to the pot. Stir to combine and cover again. Simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green. This ensures your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup remains as nutritious as it is delicious. Step 8: Melt in the Cheese Remove the pot from heat and slowly sprinkle in 2 cups of grated smoked Gouda cheese, stirring until fully melted. This final flourish turns your soup into a creamy, cheesy delight. The rich smoky flavor will elevate this dish into the realm of comforting culinary magic! Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Variations Feel free to customize this soup to fit your taste buds and pantry staples for an even more delightful experience! Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond milk and use a non-dairy cheese for a creamy, vegan option. Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to elevate the heat and enhance the flavor. Protein-Packed: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken for added heartiness or top with crunchy croutons for a delightful texture contrast. Cheesy Twist: Swap smoked Gouda with sharp cheddar or Gruyère for a different flavor profile without losing that gooey goodness. Veggie Boost: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale right before serving for a vibrant color and extra nutrients. Herbaceous: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness that elevates the soup. Sweet Potato Substitute: Use sweet potato in place of carrot to impart a sweeter flavor and an alluring golden hue. Cauliflower Base: Replace broccoli with cauliflower for a completely different taste while still enjoying a comforting and creamy soup base. For even more vegetable goodness, consider serving alongside dishes like Grilled Chicken Broccoli or add a vibrant side of Zucchini Soup Comforting. Expert Tips for Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Cheese Quality Matters: Use freshly grated smoked Gouda for optimal melting and flavor; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that lessen creaminess. Thicker Soup Solutions: If your soup appears too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce excess liquid, enriching the consistency. Smoother Texture: For a velvety finish, consider blending the soup with an immersion blender before adding cheese, giving it a refined, creamy texture. Garlic Timing: To avoid burning, always add garlic towards the end of the onion cooking process; this ensures a fragrant and flavorful result without bitterness. Season to Taste: Remember that different broths can affect saltiness; taste and adjust the salt accordingly to achieve the perfect balance in your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup. What to Serve with Creamy Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Comforting and flavorful, this rich soup pairs perfectly with delightful sides to complete your meal experience. Crusty Bread: The ideal accompaniment, perfect for dipping and soaking up every delicious drop of soup. Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp mix of greens and vegetables adds freshness that balances the creamy richness. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic combo brings a nostalgic touch, blending perfectly with the cheesy goodness of the soup. Roasted Vegetables: A side of caramelized veggies offers delightful texture and enhances the healthy vibes of your meal. Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Filling and flavorful, these potatoes can be loaded with toppings that harmonize with the soup’s creamy profile. Sparkling Water: Refreshing and bubbly, this drink cleanses the palate between spoonfuls, enhancing your overall dining experience. Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp brings a sweet, comforting finale, with its own touch of cozy warmth. Hot Tea: A soothing cup serves as a calming companion, perfect for rounding out your comforting evening routine. How to Store and Freeze Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Refrigerator: Store your soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and allows you to enjoy a comforting bowl anytime. Freezer: For longer storage, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Reheating: Gently reheat the soup over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture. Avoid boiling to preserve its flavor and consistency. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to bring back the deliciousness of your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup. Make Ahead Options These creamy Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the broccoli and carrot up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For even more convenience, prepare the soup base (steps 1 to 6) and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to let it cool first to prevent condensation. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply reheat the base over medium heat, stir in the vegetables, and add the grated smoked Gouda until melted for a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made! Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe FAQs How should I select broccoli for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing broccoli, look for florets that are bright green and firm, avoiding any that have dark spots or are wilted. Fresh broccoli should feel heavy in your hand and have tightly closed florets for the best texture and flavor in your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup. What is the best way to store leftover soup? For storing, place your soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness. If you want to enjoy it later, you can also freeze it! Can I freeze Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup? Definitely! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to retain that creamy texture. What if my soup is too thin? Great question! If you find your soup is thinner than desired, simply simmer it uncovered on the stove for a few minutes. This will evaporate some liquid and thicken up that creamy consistency. Alternatively, you could also blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a thicker texture. Are there any dietary considerations for this soup? Yes, it’s important to note that this Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is vegetarian-friendly, especially if you use vegetable broth. However, if you have dietary restrictions due to allergies, such as dairy or gluten, you can easily substitute ingredients like using almond milk instead of whole milk and gluten-free flour instead of regular flour, making it a versatile option for many dietary needs! Comforting Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup for Cozy Nights This Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is a creamy and nutritious delight, perfect for chilly evenings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 cupsCourse: SoupCuisine: VegetarianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and flavor; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.1 medium Onion Provides sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder taste.2 cloves Garlic Infuses aromatic flavors; always opt for fresh for the best results.1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Thickens the soup for a creamy texture; gluten-free flour works as a substitute.For the Soup4 cups Broth Chicken or vegetable broth forms the base; homemade broth enhances the flavor.1 cup Whole Milk Contributes creaminess; heavy cream or almond milk can offer alternatives.1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to the saltiness of the broth used.1/2 teaspoon Paprika Adds a smoky depth; choose smoked paprika for an extra flavor boost.1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper Provides warmth and bite; feel free to substitute with white pepper for a milder taste.For the Vegetables4 cups Broccoli Florets The main component, essential for texture and nutrients; cauliflower can be used as a substitute.1 medium Carrot Adds sweetness and vibrant color; sweet potato can also replace it for a different flavor.For the Star Ingredient2 cups Smoked Gouda Cheese Delivers the signature smoky flavor and creamy texture; cheddar or Gruyère can be used if needed. Equipment Large saucepan Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Smoked Gouda Broccoli SoupIn a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until shimmering and foamy (about 1-2 minutes).Add 1 diced onion into the melted butter and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent, about 4 minutes.Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about 1 minute.Gradually whisk in 4 cups of broth and 1 cup of whole milk until smooth, and stir for 2-3 minutes.Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cover.Introduce 4 cups of chopped broccoli florets and 1 grated carrot to the pot. Stir and cover again.Remove from heat and slowly sprinkle in 2 cups of grated smoked Gouda cheese, stirring until fully melted. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 12gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg NotesUse freshly grated smoked Gouda for optimal melting and flavor. Simmer uncovered if the soup appears too thin. Consider blending for a smoother texture before adding cheese. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
