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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup in Rustic Bread Bowl

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A cozy, comforting broccoli cheddar soup served in a hollowed-out rustic bread bowl, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups (950ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups (480ml) whole milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free)
  • 4 cups (about 300g) fresh broccoli florets, chopped
  • 2 cups (200g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • 4 small to medium round artisan bread loaves (sourdough or country-style preferred)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut off the top 1 to 1.5 inches of each bread loaf and hollow out the inside, leaving about a ½-inch thick shell. Set aside on a baking sheet.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. Stir in ¼ cup flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  4. Slowly whisk in 4 cups broth, then 2 cups milk. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add chopped broccoli, cover partially, and cook until tender but bright green, about 10-12 minutes. Optionally, blend some or all broccoli with an immersion blender for smoother texture.
  6. Lower heat to low and gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
  7. Place hollowed bread bowls and tops in the oven for about 5 minutes to warm and slightly crisp the inside.
  8. Ladle soup into warm bread bowls, replace tops on the side, and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not rush the roux to avoid raw flour taste. Use freshly shredded cheddar for best melting and texture. Keep soup at a gentle simmer to prevent curdling. Hollow bread bowls carefully to avoid leaks and warm them before serving to prevent sogginess. If soup thickens too much, stir in broth or milk to loosen. Slowly add cheese off heat to avoid graininess.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, bread bowl, creamy soup, cozy meals, quick dinner, comfort food, rustic bread bowl

Find it online: https://forkmila.com/creamy-broccoli-cheddar-soup-in-rustic-bread-bowl-easy-recipe-for-cozy-meals/