It’s a chilly evening, the kind that makes you want to wrap yourself in a cozy blanket and indulge in something delicious. Enter the instant pot broccoli cheddar soup, a warm hug for your taste buds! Imagine velvety cheese mingling with tender broccoli, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Creamy Corn Chowder This soup is not just food; it’s comfort in a bowl, ready to transport you back to those carefree childhood days spent slurping up creamy goodness at home.
Remember the first time you tasted broccoli cheddar soup? You probably felt like royalty as you dipped your spoon into that luscious concoction. Now, picture whipping up that same magic in your kitchen using an instant pot. Whether it’s a rainy day, a cozy family dinner, or simply because you deserve it, this soup is here to make everything better. Get ready for an explosion of flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The instant pot makes preparing this delightful soup incredibly easy and quick.
- The rich flavor profile combines savory cheese with fresh broccoli for an unforgettable experience.
- With its vibrant green color and creamy texture, it’s visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests.
- This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a main course or a starter and pairs beautifully with crusty bread.
Ingredients for instant pot broccoli cheddar soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for the best flavor and texture; they should be firm and free of yellowing.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop it finely to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots bring color and sweetness; slice them thinly so they cook quickly.
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic will infuse the soup with warmth.
- Vegetable Broth: This serves as the base; opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still providing depth.
- Heavy Cream: For that creamy richness, heavy cream elevates the soup to luxurious heights.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Grate your own cheese for better melting; sharp cheddar gives the best flavor punch!
- Salt and Pepper: These essentials will enhance all the flavors; season according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make instant pot broccoli cheddar soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Start by turning on your instant pot and selecting the sauté function. Add a splash of olive oil (about one tablespoon) and toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and translucent—this usually takes about three minutes.
Step 2: Add Carrots and Broccoli
Next, stir in your sliced carrots and fresh broccoli florets. Cook for another two minutes while mixing everything together until those veggies start looking vibrant.
Step 3: Pour in Vegetable Broth
Now it’s time to add about four cups of vegetable broth into the pot. Give everything a good stir, ensuring no veggies are stuck at the bottom nobody wants burnt bits ruining their masterpiece!
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid on your instant pot and set it to cook on high pressure for five minutes. Yes, just five minutes! It’s almost too good to be true.
Step 5: Quick Release
Once cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release by turning the steam release valve be cautious of that hot steam!
Step 6: Blend and Add Cream & Cheese
Open the lid (watch out for steam!), then use an immersion blender right in the pot until smooth. Stir in one cup of heavy cream along with about two cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
Transfer to bowls, serve warm, and enjoy with some crusty bread or crackers! Your taste buds will thank you for this instant pot broccoli cheddar soup adventure!
You Must Know
- This delightful instant pot broccoli cheddar soup is not just quick to make; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- Creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutrition, this soup will make your taste buds dance while keeping your kitchen tidy and clean.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in your Instant Pot for a flavor base. Then, add broccoli, broth, and seasonings before sealing the pot. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then blend until smooth for an unforgettable creamy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular cheddar for sharp cheese or pepper jack for a kick! You can also toss in some cooked chicken or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian spin. Get creative and make it your own!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover instant pot broccoli cheddar soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the creamiest texture, blend the soup right after cooking while it’s still hot.
- If you want extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Always taste before serving; adjusting seasoning can elevate your dish!
Sometimes I whip up this instant pot broccoli cheddar soup when friends come over, and their faces light up after the first spoonful it’s like magic in a bowl!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for instant pot broccoli cheddar soup?
To make instant pot broccoli cheddar soup, you will need fresh broccoli, carrots, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, and sharp cheddar cheese. You can also include heavy cream for a richer texture. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavors. This combination creates a creamy and delicious soup that is perfect for lunch or dinner. The instant pot helps to cook the vegetables quickly while locking in all the nutrients and flavors.
How long does it take to cook instant pot broccoli cheddar soup?
Cooking instant pot broccoli cheddar soup is quick and easy. It takes about 15 minutes to sauté the vegetables and another 10 minutes under high pressure to cook everything thoroughly. After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Overall, you can enjoy this comforting soup in just under 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Can I freeze instant pot broccoli cheddar soup?
Yes, you can freeze instant pot broccoli cheddar soup. To do this, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of each container since liquids expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This way, you can savor this delicious soup even on busy days.
How can I make instant pot broccoli cheddar soup healthier?
To make your instant pot broccoli cheddar soup healthier, consider using low-fat cheese or a combination of cheese and nutritional yeast for added flavor without excess calories. You can also substitute heavy cream with almond milk or coconut milk for a lighter version. Adding extra vegetables like spinach or peas can boost nutrition without compromising taste. These adjustments will help create a dish that is both delicious and nutritious.
Conclusion for instant pot broccoli cheddar soup:
In summary, instant pot broccoli cheddar soup combines fresh ingredients with a creamy texture that is both satisfying and quick to prepare. The versatility of this recipe allows for various adaptations to suit your dietary preferences while maintaining its delightful flavor profile. Instant Pot Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal or paired with crusty bread, this recipe promises comfort in every bowl. Honey Mustard Chicken Potatoes Try it today and experience how simple it is to create within your instant pot! For more inspiration, check out this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe recipe.
Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This creamy, cheesy delight features fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese for a flavor-packed experience that warms you from the inside out.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté onion and garlic in your Instant Pot with 1 tbsp olive oil until fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Add carrots and broccoli; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, stir well, and ensure no veggies are stuck to the bottom.
- Secure the lid and set to high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Perform a quick release of steam carefully.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: - Enhance flavor by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or nutmeg. - For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with almond milk or coconut milk. - Incorporate cooked chicken or swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for extra kick.
[…] like gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a rich pesto sauce, this dish comes together effortlessly. Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Whether you choose to customize your veggie selection or stick with traditional favorites, this […]