Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is the ultimate comfort food soup! This delightful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, bringing warmth and flavor to your table in just 30 minutes. With its rich and smoky gouda cheese, this soup stands out as a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This soup can be made in 30 minutes or less, making it a great option for busy days.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in a single pot on the stovetop.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of smoked gouda and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously rich flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a comforting starter to any meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and carrots, this soup adds healthy vegetables to your diet.

Tools and Preparation

Creating Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup doesn’t require fancy equipment. A few essential tools will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents spills when stirring.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring longevity.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining ingredients smoothly, especially when adding liquids to dry ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Base

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

For the Soup

• 16 ounces broth (vegetable or chicken)
• 16 ounces whole milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

For the Vegetables

• 1 large head of broccoli (chopped into small florets)
• 1 large carrot (grated)

For the Cheese

• 8 ounces smoked gouda (fresh grated)

How to Make Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onions and cook until they begin to brown and turn translucent, about 4 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to create a paste. Cook this mixture for 1 minute.

Step 2: Combine Liquids and Seasoning

Add the chicken broth and whole milk to the pot along with salt, paprika, and pepper. Use a whisk to incorporate all ingredients well.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes or until vegetables reach your desired tenderness.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese

Remove the soup from heat. Gradually add shredded smoked gouda while stirring continuously until fully melted into the soup.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle warm soup into bowls and top with croutons if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup!

How to Serve Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Serving Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this creamy, comforting soup.

With Croutons

• Crunchy Texture – Adding croutons provides a delightful crunch that contrasts the creamy soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Flavor Boost – A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and enhances the smoky flavor of the gouda.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Freshness Factor – Garnishing with chopped parsley or chives introduces a fresh note that brightens the dish.

Paired with Bread

• Perfect Companion – A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread is great for dipping and soaking up the soup.

Served in Bread Bowls

• Fun Presentation – For a unique twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible serving dish.

How to Perfect Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

To make your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh broccoli and gouda will enhance both flavor and nutritional value.

• Adjust Consistency – If you prefer a thicker soup, add more flour when cooking; for a thinner soup, increase the broth.

• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper or nutmeg for additional depth of flavor.

• Blend for Smoothness – For an ultra-creamy texture, use an immersion blender after cooking to blend until smooth.

Best Side Dishes for Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Complement your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup with these delicious side dishes that pair perfectly together.

1. Garlic Bread – This classic side is perfect for scooping up every last drop of soup.
2. Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine and tangy dressing create a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms – Baked mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide a savory bite alongside the soup.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious balance to the hearty soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add color and texture to your meal.
6. Cheese Platter – Pairing different cheeses can enhance the smoky notes of gouda while providing variety.
7. Savory Scones – Cheddar or herb scones offer a flaky complement to each spoonful of soup.
8. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich, cheesy goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is easy, but avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and the final dish.

• Using old vegetables: Fresh broccoli and carrots are crucial for flavor. Always use fresh produce for the best taste and texture.
• Not whisking properly: Failing to whisk the broth and milk can lead to lumps. Ensure you whisk thoroughly when adding these ingredients.
• Overcooking the soup: Cooking the vegetables too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them, cooking just until tender.
• Skipping the cheese grating: Pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents that prevent melting smoothly. Grate your gouda fresh for a creamy texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. You might need to adjust salt and pepper based on personal preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in a covered oven-safe dish and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering with a microwave-safe lid. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup.

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes! While smoked gouda adds unique flavor, feel free to experiment with sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different taste.

How do I make this soup vegan?

To make a vegan version of Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup, substitute butter with olive oil, use plant-based milk, and omit cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can include spinach, cauliflower, or even peas for added nutrition and flavor diversity in your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, salad, or grilled sandwiches for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is not just delicious; it’s also quick to prepare and adaptable. You can easily customize it with other vegetables or cheese varieties according to your taste. Give this recipe a try for an easy weeknight dinner that feels comforting and hearty!

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Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup, a delightful dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table in just 30 minutes. This creamy soup is packed with nutritious broccoli and carrots, all harmoniously blended with rich, smoky gouda cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, it’s a versatile dish that can be served as a hearty main course or an inviting starter. With minimal cleanup required thanks to its one-pot preparation, you can enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss. Whether topped with croutons, drizzled with olive oil, or paired with crusty bread, this soup promises to be a family favorite.

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Ingredients

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• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 16 ounces chicken broth
• 16 ounces whole milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 large head of broccoli (chopped into small florets)
• 1 large carrot (grated)
• 8 ounces smoked gouda (fresh grated)

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté diced onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook briefly.
2. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for one minute before gradually adding chicken broth and milk while whisking to combine.
3. Incorporate broccoli florets and grated carrot; bring to a simmer and cook covered for 10-12 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in shredded smoked gouda until melted and creamy.
5. Serve warm, optionally garnished with croutons or fresh herbs.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 55mg