There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with flavor and warmth. Picture this: a chilly evening, your kitchen filled with the golden aroma of sautéed onions and garlic mingling together. As I stirred my pot of Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup, I realized this delightful recipe had transformed a simple meal into a cozy gathering of flavors that felt like a warm hug.
This soup was born on a night when I craved homemade goodness, steering away from fast food’s typical call. The richness of smoked gouda meets vibrant broccoli and sweet carrots, creating a creamy concoction that’s not just satisfying but also downright addictive. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a nourishing dish that’s incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for weeknight dinners or a leisurely weekend feast.
Join me as we dive into this irresistible recipe that promises to bring joy to your table and smiles to your loved ones. Grab your ingredients and let’s create something truly special together!
Why is Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup a must-try?
Comforting warmth fills every bowl with this delightful blend of flavors. Quick and easy, you can have dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Creamy texture from the gouda beautifully complements the fresh broccoli, while nutrient-rich ingredients boost your health. Perfect for cozy nights, this soup turns a simple meal into a delightful experience that everyone will love! If you’re looking for other quick options, check out my easy weeknight recipes.
Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• ¼ cup unsalted butter – adds a rich, creamy base to the soup.
• 1 medium onion, diced – provides a sweet and savory depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – enhances the aromatic profile and adds warmth.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – helps thicken the soup for a luscious consistency.
• 16 ounces broth, vegetable or chicken – serves as the flavor foundation; feel free to use your favorite type!
• 16 ounces whole milk – creates that creamy texture, making your soup delightfully smooth.
• ½ teaspoon salt – a crucial seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – introduces a subtle smokiness that complements the gouda.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper – adds a hint of spice to balance the dish.
For the Veggies
• 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into small florets – packed with nutrients and a star ingredient in this soup.
• 1 large carrot, grated – infuses sweetness and additional color to your dish.
For the Cheese
• 8 ounces smoked gouda, fresh grated – brings a distinct and rich smokiness, making this Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup unforgettable!
Dive into this creamy, nourishing recipe that captures the essence of homemade comfort, and enjoy cooking this delightful dish!
How to Make Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup
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Melt the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the diced onions and cook until they start to brown and turn translucent, about 4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrant aroma.
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Prepare the Base: Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring to create a paste. Allow this to cook for 1 minute, which gives the mixture a slight toasty flavor that enhances your soup.
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Whisk in the Liquids: Gradually add the broth and milk, whisking until everything is well incorporated. Season the mixture with salt, paprika, and pepper for a flavorful base.
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Add the Veggies: Toss in the chopped broccoli and grated carrot, stirring to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender to your liking.
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Incorporate the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and slowly add the freshly grated smoked gouda. Stir gently until the cheese melts, creating a rich and creamy texture throughout the soup.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the warm soup into bowls, and don’t forget to top with crunchy croutons for that perfect finish!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Variations
Feel free to take this recipe to new heights by exploring these delightful variations!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond or coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free option.
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Extra Veggies: Add diced potatoes or cauliflower for added creaminess and a heartier texture without compromising flavor. They’ll blend beautifully!
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Cheese Twist: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or fontina for alternative flavors that still deliver that creamy comfort.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary just before serving for an aromatic pop that elevates the entire dish.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat that complements the smoky gouda.
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Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken or white beans for a satisfying way to add protein while keeping it wholesome and filling.
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Crispy Topping: Top with crispy bacon or pancetta for an extra layer of flavor and crunch that takes your soup experience up a notch.
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Nutty Crunch: Add some toasted walnuts or pecans just before serving for a delightful texture and rich, nutty flavor that contrasts the creaminess.
With these tasty twists, your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup can truly become your signature comfort dish!
How to Store and Freeze Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To maintain creaminess, reheat on the stove rather than the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much during freezing.
Serving Tip: Enjoy your soup warm, topped with croutons, for a delightful meal even after freezing!
Expert Tips for Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup
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Broccoli Prep: Cut florets small: Smaller broccoli pieces cook faster, ensuring they’re tender and vibrant in your smoked gouda broccoli soup.
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Paper Trail: Avoid clumping flour: Mixing flour with the butter must be thorough; this prevents lumps in your soup base.
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Timing Matters: Don’t overcook vegetables: Simmer just until tender; overcooking can lead to mushy broccoli in your delicious soup.
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Cheese Love: Gradually add gouda: Incorporating the cheese slowly allows for a creamy melt, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
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Season to Taste: Adjust seasoning after cooking: Always taste your soup before serving; slight tweaks with salt or pepper make a world of difference.
What to Serve with Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup?
Looking to elevate your cozy bowl of warmth into a memorable meal?
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf offers a delightful contrast, perfect for dipping and savoring every last sip of creamy soup.
- Garlic Parmesan Croutons: Crunchy croutons add a burst of flavor and texture, making each spoonful a delicious adventure. Try adding a sprinkle of herbs for extra zest!
- Simple Side Salad: A fresh, vibrant salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette brightens the meal, balancing the richness of the soup beautifully.
- Cheesy Grilled Cheese: This classic pairing is unbeatable! The melty cheese and buttery bread create a delightful comfort combo that everyone loves.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies complement the flavors and bring a lovely caramelization to the table, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Sparkling Water or White Wine: Light and refreshing drinks add an elegant touch, cleansing the palate between each satisfying bite of soup.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: To finish on a sweet note, serve warm cookies for dessert—an indulgent way to end your cozy evening!
Embrace the warmth and flavors of these pairings, making your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup the star of the meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can dice the onions, mince the garlic, and chop the broccoli, storing them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base (butter, flour, broth, milk, and spices) and keep it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the soup base, stir in the prepped vegetables, and simmer until tender. Finish by adding the smoked gouda to create that creamy texture. You’ll enjoy the same delicious flavor while cutting down your cooking time!
Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best broccoli for my soup?
Absolutely! When selecting broccoli, look for vibrant green florets without dark spots or wilting. The stems should be firm and not overly fibrous. Fresh broccoli typically has tight, compact florets, signaling excellent quality. If you can, choose organic for the best flavor!
What’s the best way to store leftover Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup?
You can keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled down before sealing it. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring often to maintain its creamy texture.
Can I freeze Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! To do this, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stove. If it thickens, just add a splash of milk for creaminess!
What if my soup ends up too thick?
No worries at all! If your soup thickens too much while cooking or reheating, simply add a little broth or milk, stirring it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This will not only help with the texture but also enhance the flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! This recipe contains dairy, which may be unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. For a dairy-free version, substitute the whole milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative to maintain the creamy flavor and texture without the allergens. Always check labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs!
Creamy Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it’s bubbly. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and cook until the onions begin to brown and turn translucent, about 4 minutes.
- Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Then, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir well.
- Gradually pour in the broth and whole milk, whisking gently. Add salt, paprika, and pepper.
- Add the chopped broccoli and grated carrot. Stir to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Remove from heat and slowly add in the freshly grated smoked gouda. Stir until fully melted and creamy.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crunchy croutons.