If you are searching for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, the Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. This creamy, cheesy soup balances the earthiness of fresh broccoli and the subtle sweetness of grated carrot with the rich, smoky allure of Gouda cheese. Every spoonful offers a luxurious texture enriched by a perfectly seasoned base, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients, each carefully chosen to deliver layers of flavor and a delightful texture. From the buttery and aromatic sautéed onions and garlic to the nutty smoked Gouda that melts into silky richness, these components come together to create a soup that’s both rustic and refined.
- Unsalted butter, ¼ cup: Provides a creamy base and cooks the aromatics perfectly without overwhelming the flavor.
- Medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth, becoming wonderfully translucent when softened.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Brings a gentle warmth and pungency essential for background flavor.
- All-purpose flour, ¼ cup (30 g): Creates a roux that thickens the soup, giving it a luscious consistency.
- Vegetable or chicken broth, 16 ounces: Forms the savory liquid base that bathes the vegetables.
- Whole milk, 16 ounces: Adds creaminess and mellows the broth for a perfectly smooth texture.
- Salt, ½ teaspoon: Enhances natural flavors without overpowering the ingredients.
- Paprika, ½ teaspoon: Offers a subtle smoky note that complements the Gouda cheese beautifully.
- Pepper, ¼ teaspoon: Provides just the right touch of heat and contrast.
- Large head of broccoli, chopped into small florets: Brings fresh, vibrant green color and a tender bite that balances the richness.
- Large carrot, grated: Adds a hint of sweetness and brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Smoked Gouda, 8 ounces (226 g), freshly grated: The star ingredient—its smoky creaminess transforms the soup into an irresistible treat.
How to Make Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Toss in your diced onions, letting them cook gently for about four minutes until they turn translucent and develop a golden tint. Follow this by stirring in the minced garlic, cooking just long enough to release its aromatic charm—about 30 seconds is perfect. This fragrant base sets the tone for the entire soup.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the warm onion and garlic mix. Stir continuously to form a smooth paste called a roux. Cook it for about one minute, which is crucial to cook out any raw flour taste and start building that thick, velvety body for your soup.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Slowly whisk in your broth and whole milk, making sure to keep the mixture lump-free and creamy. Season the soup with salt, paprika, and pepper. These simple spices perfectly balance the creaminess with a hint of smoky warmth that elevates the flavor to new heights.
Step 4: Incorporate the Vegetables
Now, stir in the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot. The broccoli brings a gorgeous pop of green and a fresh bite, while the carrot contributes a whisper of sweetness. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let the vegetables cook until tender—about 10 to 12 minutes ensures they’re just right.
Step 5: Melt in the Smoked Gouda
Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually add your freshly grated smoked Gouda cheese. Stir patiently until every last bit melts completely, weaving its smoky creaminess through the soup. This step is the magic that creates the silky texture and decadent depth everyone will love.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Cozy
Ladle your warm soup into bowls and, if you’re feeling fancy, toss some crunchy croutons on top for an irresistible texture contrast. Serve immediately and prepare for satisfied smiles all around.
How to Serve Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe even more special, consider topping it with crispy garlic croutons or a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives. A swirl of sour cream or a few toasted pumpkin seeds can also add delightful layers of texture and complement the smoky notes of the soup beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty artisan bread or warm, buttery dinner rolls that soak up every last drop. For a light meal, toss together a fresh mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette, which provides a bright counterpoint to the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation that doubles as part of the meal. Alternatively, layer the soup in clear glass mugs alongside a small topping of cheese or herbs for a cozy, inviting treat. Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a quiet night in, these creative touches enhance the experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its creamy texture and fresh flavors. Before storing, allow the soup to cool slightly to avoid condensation that could impact the soup’s quality.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to two months. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty ziplock bag, leaving some room for expansion. Bear in mind that the texture may slightly change due to the dairy content, so gently reheat and stir well after thawing to bring it back to its luscious state.
Reheating
Reheat the soup slowly over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring frequently to ensure the smoked Gouda melts evenly and the soup remains smooth. Avoid high heat, which might cause the cheese to separate or the soup to scorch. Adding a splash of milk during reheating can help restore creaminess if needed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of smoked Gouda?
Absolutely! While smoked Gouda adds a unique smoky richness, you can substitute with cheddar, fontina, or even Monterey Jack for a different but equally delicious flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the smoky element is key to this recipe’s character.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying, thanks to the combination of smoked Gouda and fresh vegetables.
Can I make this soup vegan or dairy-free?
To adapt this Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe for a vegan or dairy-free diet, you’d need to replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, swap whole milk for almond or oat milk, and use a vegan smoked cheese substitute. Keep in mind the final texture and flavor will vary but can still be delicious.
How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?
If you prefer a thicker soup, simply reduce the amount of broth or cook the soup a bit longer uncovered to evaporate excess liquid. For a thinner soup, add extra broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Is it possible to use frozen broccoli for this soup?
Yes! Frozen broccoli can be a convenient substitute. Just add it directly to the soup at the stage when fresh broccoli goes in, and adjust cooking times as needed since frozen veggies cook faster than fresh ones.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a bowl of soup that’s creamy, smoky, and packed with fresh vegetables, and the Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe nails it in spectacular fashion. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to reach for again and again, knowing it will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort food.
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Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender broccoli and carrots with the rich, smoky flavor of gouda cheese. Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner, this soup is easy to prepare with simple ingredients and offers a velvety texture that pleases the palate.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
Liquids & Seasoning
- 16 ounces vegetable or chicken broth
- 16 ounces whole milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Vegetables & Cheese
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 8 ounces (226 g) smoked gouda, freshly grated
Instructions
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the diced onions and cook until they begin to brown and become translucent, about 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Make Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour to the onion and garlic mixture, forming a paste. Cook this roux for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth along with whole milk, ensuring the mixture is smooth. Season with salt, paprika, and pepper, stirring well to combine.
- Cook Vegetables: Incorporate the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot into the soup. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender to your preference.
- Add Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and slowly add the freshly grated smoked gouda cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and integrated into the soup, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
- Serve: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and, if desired, garnish with croutons for added texture and crunch. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh smoked gouda for the best melting and flavor experience.
- You can substitute vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt depending on the broth used.
- For a thicker soup, cook the roux longer before adding liquids.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
