Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe

If you are craving a cozy, velvety soup that brings together smoky richness and fresh greens, nothing hits the spot quite like Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup. This hearty soup combines tender broccoli florets and sweet carrots with a luscious, smoky gouda cheese base that melts into creamy perfection. Warm and comforting, it’s an ideal meal for chilly evenings or anytime you want a satisfying bowl brimming with flavor and a hint of indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every fantastic Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup starts with just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients, each playing a key role. From the buttery onions building the flavor foundation, to the fresh broccoli and carrots adding vibrant texture and color, every component is essential to create that perfectly balanced, velvety soup.

• ¼ cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics to a golden finish.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Brings a subtle sweetness when cooked until translucent.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a punch of fragrant flavor that enhances the soup’s depth.
• ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent to give your soup a luscious texture.
• 16 ounces broth (vegetable or chicken): Forms a flavorful liquid base for simmering the vegetables.
• 16 ounces whole milk: Adds creamy body and a smooth mouthfeel to the soup.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Season thoughtfully to balance and lift all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Introduces a gentle warmth and subtle color boost.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.
• 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into small florets: The star vegetable, providing freshness and plenty of nutrients.
• 1 large carrot, grated: Adds sweetness and a pop of bright color.
• 8 ounces (226 g) smoked gouda, freshly grated: The heart of this soup, melting into unctuous, smoky goodness.

How to Make Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Begin by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, translucent, and just start to brown—about 4 minutes. This slow sautéing brings out their natural sweetness. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds, releasing that inviting aroma without letting it burn.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a thick paste called a roux. Cook this mixture for about one minute to eliminate the raw flour taste; this step is crucial for achieving the perfect velvety thickness in your soup.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and whole milk, ensuring the mixture is smooth and lump-free. Stir in salt, paprika, and pepper to build layers of flavor. The paprika will lend a subtle smoky undertone that complements the smoked gouda beautifully.

Step 4: Simmer the Vegetables

Add the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot to the pot, stirring everything together. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let the soup cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green, providing a lovely contrast in both taste and texture.

Step 5: Melt in the Smoked Gouda

Remove the saucepan from heat and slowly stir in the freshly grated smoked gouda, ensuring it melts evenly into the hot soup. This is where the magic happens: the cheese transforms the broth into a decadently creamy, smoky, and comforting dish that you’ll want to savor spoonful by spoonful.

How to Serve Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Garnishes

Enhance your bowl of Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup with garnishes like crunchy homemade croutons, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, or chopped fresh herbs such as chives or parsley. These little touches add texture and a burst of freshness that elevate the whole eating experience.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs perfectly with sturdy bread like a crusty baguette or warm sourdough to soak up the creamy goodness. A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the soup by adding brightness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a creative twist, serve the Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible container, or drizzle a swirl of chili oil or cream on top for added visual appeal and flavor contrast. Individual ramekins can make serving at dinner parties feel extra special and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. When stored properly, the flavors deepen overnight, making the soup taste even better the next day.

Freezing

Because of the dairy and delicate texture, freezing Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is best done with caution. If freezing, do so before adding the cheese, then thaw completely and stir in freshly grated smoked gouda upon reheating to preserve that pleasantly smooth texture.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring often to prevent scorching. Microwaving is also an option, but heat in short bursts and stir in between to maintain its creamy consistency without separating.

FAQs

Can I substitute smoked gouda with another cheese?

Absolutely! While smoked gouda gives this soup its signature flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere for different tastes and textures. Just be sure to use freshly grated cheese for the best melting quality.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s best to avoid pre-shredded bagged cheese because they often contain anti-clumping agents that can cause a grainy texture when melted. Grate your own cheese fresh for a silky, smooth soup every time.

Can I make this soup vegan or dairy-free?

You can adapt the recipe by using dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and a vegan smoked cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that the creamy texture and smoky flavor will vary from the original.

How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?

If you want a thicker soup, add a bit more flour when making the roux or simmer it longer to reduce the liquid. For a thinner version, simply add more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

What is the best way to chop broccoli for this soup?

Chop your broccoli into small, bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking and pleasant texture throughout the soup. Stems can be peeled and finely diced or grated to include for added nutrients and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe that once you try this Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup, it will become your new favorite go-to for cozy meals. The smoky, cheesy goodness combined with fresh vegetables creates a bowl full of comfort and joy. So gather your ingredients, give this recipe a whirl, and enjoy every delicious, heartwarming spoonful!

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