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There’s something comforting about a warm bowl of broccoli cheese soup. You can recreate Ree Drummond’s famous version from The Pioneer Woman. This soup combines the perfect mix of creamy cheese and delicious broccoli.

Whether you’re a fan of broccoli soup or looking to try it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Your kitchen will be filled with the inviting aroma of onions and butter melting together as you prepare the base. Adding in fresh broccoli and a blend of cheeses makes this soup a cozy meal on a chilly day.

Plus, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require any complex ingredients or steps.

As you craft this delightful dish, you’re not just making soup. You’re bringing a sense of homemade comfort to your table. With simple directions and trusty ingredients, you’ll find yourself turning to this recipe whenever you crave a classic, heartwarming meal.

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What Makes This Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Soup Special?

When you make this Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Soup, you’re in for a treat. This easy recipe combines simple ingredients to create a cozy, comforting meal. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a favorite for anyone craving something hearty and delicious.

The use of fresh broccoli is key. It brings a nice color and a fresh taste to the soup.

You might start by sautéing onions in butter, which adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish. The onions meld well with the broccoli for a balanced flavor.

Cheese is another star ingredient. With cheddar cheese, you get richness and sharpness that elevate the soup. The cheese melts beautifully, creating a smooth and velvety texture that cheese lovers will appreciate.

This soup can be made in a traditional pot or even a slow cooker for convenience. Using a slow cooker might require blending the soup partially to achieve the perfect consistency. This method allows for hands-free cooking, which is ideal for busy days.

If you enjoy variety, you can add other ingredients like carrots or even bacon. Carrots add a hint of sweetness, while bacon provides a smoky crunch. Feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Soup

To make the Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Soup, gather these simple ingredients:

Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli works well. Both bring out great flavors.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of your soup.
Onion: Small, finely chopped onion adds a mild, sweet flavor.

All-purpose flour: Thickens the soup to a perfect creamy texture.
Milk and Half-and-Half: Whole milk and half-and-half create a rich and creamy base.
Chicken broth: Provides depth and a savory undertone.

Cheese: A mix of cheeses enhances the flavor:
- Sharp cheddar and mild cheddar: Grate them for better melting.
- Monterey Jack: Adds a mild creaminess.

Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste for balance.
Nutmeg: A pinch adds warmth but is optional.

These ingredients combine to make a comforting and flavorful soup. Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your preference. Happy cooking!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Soup

Start with gathering your ingredients. You’ll need broccoli, onion, carrots, chicken broth, cream of celery soup, seasoned salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Set aside 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese for later.

In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter. Add the chopped onion to the pot. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is soft.

Next, sprinkle flour over the onions and stir for about 1 minute. Slowly pour in the milk and half-and-half, stirring constantly. This will help thicken your soup base.

Add the broccoli, carrots, and chicken broth to the pot. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the broccoli is tender, about 20 minutes.

If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup. Leave some chunks for a more rustic feel.

Slowly stir in the grated cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Your prep time for this dish is about 15 minutes, while the actual cook time is around 30 minutes. In total, this comforting soup will take about 45 minutes to make.

For a delicious twist, you can drizzle a little olive oil on top just before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Soup

Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese make a big difference. Opt for sharp cheddar to enhance the soup’s flavor. Freshly grated cheese melts better and ensures a smooth texture.

Don’t Overcook the Broccoli
Keep an eye on the cooking time. Broccoli should be tender but not mushy. This preserves the soup’s texture and retains the bright green color.

Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe

Blend with Care
If you want a smooth soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. If using a regular blender, be cautious. Blend in small batches and avoid overfilling.

Adjust the Thickness
If the soup is too thick, stir in additional chicken broth or milk. To thicken it, mix a little flour with cold water and add while stirring constantly.

Add a Dash of Spice
For a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. It enhances the flavors without overpowering the creamy taste.

Pairing Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. Both options complement the soup’s creamy texture and add a satisfying crunch.

How to Customize Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Soup for Different Diets

To make your Broccoli Cheese Soup friendly for various diets, consider these simple tweaks.

For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. This maintains flavor while keeping it plant-based.

For a vegan take, replace cream and dairy cheese with coconut milk and vegan cheese. Coconut milk keeps it creamy and delicious.

If you’re gluten-free, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. This thickens the soup without any gluten.

For a lower-carb choice, reduce carrots and add more broccoli. Removing flour and using heavy cream can also cut carbs while staying creamy.

You can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker except cheese. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in cheese before serving.

Make it spicier by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. This brings a gentle heat to your bowl.

Experiment with toppings such as crispy bacon, chopped green onions, or crumbled croutons. Toppings can add texture and variety to fit your personal taste preferences.

Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Soup Storage and Meal Prep Tips

When preparing Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Soup, plan for storage. Once cooled, scoop the soup into airtight containers. This keeps it fresh and tasty.

Fridge storage: The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing option: For longer storage, freeze the soup. It can last up to 2 months.

To enjoy later, you can easily reheat the soup. If it’s refrigerated, gently heat it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring to avoid sticking. For frozen soup, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, warm it up in a pot until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Meal prepping this soup is straightforward.

Batch cooking: Make a large batch and divide it into smaller portions. Use individual containers for convenient grab-and-go lunches.
Add-ins: For variety, you can add toppings like extra cheese or croutons just before serving.

Remember to label your containers with the date. This helps you keep track of your meals. Storing portions separately helps in managing portions and prevents over-reheating. Following these tips ensures your soup remains delicious and ready whenever you want it.

Pairing Ideas for Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Soup

When you serve Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Soup, pairing it with the right side can elevate your meal. Here are a few ideas to complement this comforting dish.

Crusty Bread
A warm bowl of broccoli cheese soup is even better with some crusty bread. Whether you choose a simple French baguette or a sourdough loaf, the bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up that creamy goodness.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A classic grilled cheese sandwich pairs nicely with this soup. The melty cheese and toasted bread add a delicious contrast to the smooth soup.

Salads
A fresh salad can provide a crisp counterbalance. Consider a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. It adds a fresh element to the meal without overpowering the soup’s flavors.

Baked Potatoes
Try serving a baked potato alongside your soup. The creamy soup acts as a tasty topping, while the potato makes the meal heartier. You can add chives, bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

Cheese Sticks
Cheese sticks or garlic breadsticks are fun options for dipping. They add a bit of crunch and extra cheesy goodness that pairs well with the soup’s flavor.