Broccoli and Cheddar Soup from McAlister's Deli features tender broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese blended into a creamy, velvety base, topped with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, offering a comforting and flavorful experience.
Equipments
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
- Blender or immersion blender
- Soup bowls
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 large carrot
- 1 celery stalk
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
Using fresh broccoli florets is key to achieving the vibrant color and flavor characteristic of Broccoli and Cheddar Soup. Sharp cheddar cheese provides the soup's signature rich and tangy taste, so opt for a quality aged cheddar for the best results. Whole milk and heavy cream create the creamy base, balancing richness without overpowering the vegetables. You should be careful when incorporating the flour, as it acts as a thickener to achieve the perfect velvety texture. The Broccoli and Cheddar Soup from McAlister's Deli copycat menu delivers a comforting and flavorful experience reminiscent of the original.
Instructions
- Chop onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and broccoli florets.
- Grate cheddar cheese.
- Heat butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Sprinkle in flour; stir constantly and cook for 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in vegetable broth until smooth.
- Add broccoli florets; simmer uncovered until vegetables are tender, 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in milk, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Simmer on low for 5 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) to puree soup until mostly smooth, leaving some texture if desired.
- Reduce heat to low; stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle soup into bowls.
- Top with extra cheddar cheese and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Broccoli and Cheddar Soup from McAlister's Deli copycat menu can be adapted easily if you find certain ingredients unavailable. You can substitute fresh broccoli with frozen florets without sacrificing taste or texture, ensuring a convenient option. Whole milk and heavy cream may be replaced with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like oat milk for a lighter or dairy-free version, though this might slightly alter the creamy richness. If sharp cheddar cheese is too strong or inaccessible, try using a milder cheddar or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for balanced flavor. Remember to taste your soup as you go, adjusting seasoning to maintain the comforting flavor profile you expect from this beloved soup.
Tips
When cooking Broccoli and Cheddar Soup, ensure you constantly stir the flour after adding it to the butter and vegetables to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth base. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for convenience, blending until the soup is mostly smooth but still retaining some texture to enhance mouthfeel. Grating your sharp cheddar cheese fresh provides better melting and richer flavor compared to pre-shredded options. Remember to season your soup gradually, tasting after adding cheese, as cheddar adds saltiness that impacts the overall flavor balance.
Nutritions
Broccoli and Cheddar Soup from McAlister's Deli provides a balanced mix of nutrients from vegetables, dairy, and spices, offering approximately 250-300 calories per serving. This creamy soup contains essential vitamins like vitamin C and K from broccoli, along with calcium and protein from sharp cheddar cheese and dairy components. You receive healthy fiber from the fresh broccoli and antioxidants from garlic, celery, and carrot, which support immune health and digestion. Keep in mind the sodium and fat content may be higher due to cheese and cream, so enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.
Storage
Store leftover Broccoli and Cheddar Soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. When reheating, gently warm the soup on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating and ensure even texture. For extended storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth to add depth in flavor. You can replace sharp cheddar cheese with smoked gouda or Gruyere for a different cheese profile. Try roasting the broccoli florets and carrots before adding them to the soup to enhance sweetness and smokiness. If you prefer a lighter soup, swap heavy cream and whole milk for half-and-half or low-fat milk to reduce richness without losing creaminess.
Allergies
Broccoli and Cheddar Soup contains dairy products such as whole milk, heavy cream, and sharp cheddar cheese, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. The soup also includes all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, posing a risk for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. If you have food allergies, it's important to check all ingredients carefully or consult with McAlister's Deli for potential cross-contamination risks.
Why this recipe?
Broccoli and Cheddar Soup from McAlister's Deli is celebrated for its creamy texture and rich, cheesy flavor, perfectly balanced with fresh broccoli florets that provide a healthy twist. The soup's savory depth comes from high-quality cheddar cheese and a blend of spices, making it a comforting and satisfying meal choice. You can replicate this beloved menu item at home to enjoy a cost-effective and customizable version that matches the restaurant's warmth and taste. Trying the copycat recipe allows you to control ingredients, ensuring a fresh, wholesome, and delicious experience every time.