Broccoli Cheese Soup from Golden Corral features tender broccoli florets and melted cheddar cheese blended into a creamy, velvety broth, garnished with a sprinkle of sharp cheese and fresh herbs, delivering a comforting and savory bowl perfect for any season.
Equipments
- Large stockpot
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cheese grater
- Immersion blender (or regular blender)
- Soup bowls
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 carrot
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- Extra shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Using fresh broccoli florets is essential to achieve the tender texture and vibrant flavor characteristic of Broccoli Cheese Soup. Whole milk combined with heavy cream creates the rich and velvety broth that carries the cheese beautifully. Shredded cheddar cheese should be fresh and finely grated to melt smoothly without clumping, ensuring a creamy consistency. Be cautious with the seasoning amounts, especially salt and nutmeg, to balance the depth of flavors without overpowering the natural taste of the vegetables. Your careful attention to these ingredients will bring you closer to enjoying an authentic Broccoli Cheese Soup from Golden Corral copycat menu.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Chop broccoli, onion, carrot, and garlic.
- Grate cheddar cheese.
- Melt butter in large stockpot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrot, and garlic; sauté until tender.
- Stir in flour; cook 1–2 minutes, whisking constantly.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth; bring to simmer.
- Add broccoli florets; cook until tender, 8–10 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Stir in milk and heavy cream.
- Blend soup with immersion blender until smooth (or use blender in batches).
- Stir in cheddar cheese; cook until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, dry mustard, and nutmeg.
- Ladle soup into bowls.
- Garnish with extra cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Broccoli Cheese Soup from Golden Corral copycat menu offers a rich blend of broccoli florets and sharp cheddar in a creamy base. If fresh broccoli is unavailable, frozen broccoli florets can be used without significantly impacting the texture or flavor. Whole milk can be substituted with half-and-half or evaporated milk for a richer soup, while low-sodium chicken broth allows for better control over the seasoning. When shredding cheddar cheese, pre-shredded cheese is a convenient option but may contain additives that affect melting. Use your immersion blender carefully to avoid over-blending, which can cause the soup to become too smooth rather than slightly textured.
Tips
When preparing Broccoli Cheese Soup, ensure you grate the cheddar cheese finely to help it melt smoothly into the creamy broth. You should whisk the flour into the butter carefully and cook it for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which thickens the soup without leaving a floury taste. Use an immersion blender to achieve a perfectly velvety texture, blending the soup until smooth without over-processing the broccoli. Remember to season the soup gradually, tasting as you go, so your final dish has a balanced and savory flavor profile.
Nutritions
Broccoli Cheese Soup from Golden Corral provides a good balance of essential nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K from broccoli and carrot, which support immune function and bone health. The cheddar cheese and heavy cream contribute a rich source of calcium and protein, important for muscle maintenance and bone density. Whole milk adds vitamin D and additional protein, while the use of butter and all-purpose flour in moderation influences calorie and fat content. Your portion delivers a comforting meal with a combination of micronutrients and macronutrients to satisfy both taste and nutritional needs.
Storage
To store your Broccoli Cheese Soup from Golden Corral, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to maintain the creamy texture and flavor, or freeze portions for up to 2 months, ensuring to leave space for expansion. When reheating, gently warm the soup on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation and maintain its velvety consistency.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make the Broccoli Cheese Soup vegetarian-friendly, maintaining its rich flavor. Swap whole milk and heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option without sacrificing creaminess. Instead of blending completely, leave some broccoli florets chunky for added texture and visual appeal. Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper to introduce a subtle spicy kick that complements the cheddar's sharpness.
Allergies
Broccoli Cheese Soup from Golden Corral contains dairy ingredients such as whole milk, shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and unsalted butter, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. It also includes all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, posing a risk for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. If you have any food allergies, check ingredient lists carefully to ensure your safety before enjoying this creamy, comforting soup.
Why this recipe?
Broccoli Cheese Soup from Golden Corral is renowned for its creamy texture and rich blend of sharp cheddar cheese with fresh broccoli florets, creating a comforting and flavorful experience. The soup's balance of savory cheese and tender vegetables appeals to those seeking both indulgence and nutrition in one dish. Your attempt to make a copycat recipe lets you customize the flavors and control the quality of ingredients, resulting in a fresh, homemade taste that rivals the restaurant version. Replicating this soup at home also offers a cost-effective and rewarding culinary challenge for cheese and broccoli lovers alike.