Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Bread Bowl

There's no better cozy meal than a piping-hot bowl of broccoli cheddar soup on a cold day. Usually made with a roux as a base, which takes some time and attention, this version takes a shortcut by pureeing the soup with an immersion blender. You still get all the rich, creamy texture you expect—and it's ready in just 15 minutes.

Broccoli cheddar soup is a classic for a reason. It's creamy, cheesy, and comforting, and it's perfect for a cold winter day. But traditional recipes for broccoli cheddar soup can be time-consuming, requiring you to make a roux and simmer the soup for hours. This recipe for Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Bread Bowl takes a shortcut by using an immersion blender to puree the soup. This gives you all the rich, creamy texture you expect from a classic broccoli cheddar soup, but in a fraction of the time. And because the soup is served in a bread bowl, you get a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a cold winter day.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 head of broccoli, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 loaf of bread, hollowed out

Instructions

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the broccoli and chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Pour the soup into the hollowed-out loaf of bread and serve.

Why It Works

• Using an immersion blender to puree the soup gives it a rich, creamy texture without having to make a roux.
• Serving the soup in a bread bowl makes it a hearty and satisfying meal.
• The combination of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream creates a delicious and comforting flavor.