Don’t Try This Yummy Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Imagine sitting by a cozy fire on a chilly evening, a bowl of creamy, velvety soup cradling in your hands, each spoonful a symphony of rich cheddar and fresh, vibrant broccoli. This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just a dish; it’s an experience—a delightful balance between simplicity and indulgence. It embodies comfort and warmth, a culinary hug that’s ready in no time thanks to the marvels of modern cooking technology. This recipe brings the elegance of a gourmet meal to your kitchen with ease and grace.

From Family Tradition to Modern Innovation

Every chef has a journey, and this particular soup has been a cherished part of mine. Growing up, broccoli cheddar soup was a staple in our household—a dish my grandmother would prepare with love and care, filling the kitchen with an aroma that signaled warmth and nourishment. Her version was a labor of love, simmered slowly on the stove, coaxing out the flavors with patient attention. I can still see her now, stirring the pot with a gentle hand, smiling as she added the cheese, watching it melt into a luscious, creamy dream.

Fast forward to my years in luxury kitchens, where the challenge was always to refine familiar flavors while maintaining their soul. The Instant Pot emerged as a game-changer, a modern twist on traditional methods, allowing the deep flavors of my grandmother’s soup to be achieved in a fraction of the time. It’s a nod to the past, with a foot firmly planted in the present—a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation.

The Magic of Ingredients

Broccoli: The Green Gem

Let’s start with the star of the show: broccoli. This humble vegetable is a nutritional powerhouse, brimming with vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and fiber. In this soup, broccoli lends a fresh, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of cheddar. The trick is to cook it just right—soft enough to blend seamlessly into the soup, yet retaining a hint of its characteristic bite for texture.

Cheddar: The Creamy Indulgence

Then comes the cheddar, the soul of this soup, offering a luxurious, creamy texture that envelops each spoonful. Opt for a sharp cheddar to achieve the best balance, providing both depth and a slight tang that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. The cheese should melt smoothly, creating a velvety finish that coats the palate with every mouthful.

Secret Ingredients and Techniques

A dash of nutmeg might surprise you, but this is one of my little secrets. Just a pinch enhances the soup’s flavor, adding warmth and depth without overpowering the other ingredients. Using good quality chicken or vegetable broth as a base is crucial; it forms the backbone of the soup, infusing every element with savory richness.

The Instant Pot, a marvel of culinary technology, transforms this traditional dish into a modern-day miracle. Its ability to pressure-cook allows for the quick melding of flavors that would otherwise take hours. The result? A soup that tastes as if it’s been simmering all day, ready in less than an hour.

Serving Suggestions and Personal Touches

Presenting this soup is half the fun. I like to serve it in rustic bowls, topped with a sprinkle of freshly grated cheddar and a few broccoli florets for that visual appeal. A side of crusty bread or garlic toast is the perfect companion, ideal for dipping and scooping up every last drop.

For an added gourmet touch, consider a drizzle of truffle oil or a dusting of smoked paprika. These subtle enhancements can transform the soup into a luxurious starter for a dinner party or an indulgent main course on a quiet night in.

Embrace the Culinary Journey

This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to explore, to experiment, and to savor the process as much as the end result. It’s about bringing the joy of cooking back into your life, making gourmet dining accessible and enjoyable. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the warmth of your kitchen, and let this soup be both a comforting friend and a culinary adventure. Remember, the beauty of cooking lies in its ability to bring people together, one delightful bowl at a time. Engage with this dish, let it inspire your own creations, and share the joy it brings with those you love.

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Don’t Try This Yummy Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Author: Elena Cooking Method: Broiling Courses: Soups

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 25 mins

Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 12 Calories: 300 kcal

Best Season: Winter

Description

Experience the creamy, cheesy delight of broccoli cheddar soup, perfectly cooked in your Instant Pot for a quick and easy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter (Unsalted butter is preferred to control the saltiness of the soup.)
• 1 cup onion (Finely chopped; a yellow onion works best for its sweetness.)
• 3 cloves garlic (Minced; fresh garlic will enhance the flavor.)
• 4 cups broccoli florets (Cut into small, bite-sized pieces.)
• 1 cup carrot (Grated for a subtle sweetness and color.)
• 4 cups chicken broth (Low sodium is recommended to avoid an overly salty soup.)
• 1 cup heavy cream (For a rich and creamy texture.)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (Freshly grated for the best melting quality.)

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt (Adjust according to taste.)
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper (Freshly ground for a more robust flavor.)
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon nutmeg (Optional; adds a warm, subtle spice.)

Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Gather Your Ingredients

   Begin by collecting all your ingredients: fresh broccoli florets, diced onions, minced garlic, shredded carrots, chicken or vegetable broth, heavy cream, grated sharp cheddar cheese, unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
   Ensure the broccoli is washed thoroughly and cut into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

   Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves. This will help them cook quickly and release their flavors effectively.
   If you prefer a smoother soup, you can further chop the broccoli into smaller pieces.

Cooking the Soup

1. Saute Vegetables

   Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Add a tablespoon of unsalted butter and let it melt. Stir in the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3 minutes.
   Stir occasionally to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter.

2. Add Flour to Thicken

   Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste. This will help thicken the soup.
   Ensure the flour is well incorporated and no lumps remain before proceeding.

3. Incorporate Broth and Vegetables

   Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring, ensuring a smooth mixture. Add the broccoli florets and shredded carrots.
   Scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze and prevent any sticking or burning.

4. Pressure Cook the Soup

   Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Select the Pressure Cook or Manual setting and set the timer for 8 minutes on high pressure.
   The pressure will take a few minutes to build up before the timer starts.

Finishing Touches

1. Quick Release the Pressure

   Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to venting, allowing steam to escape until the float valve drops.
   Use a kitchen towel or oven mitt to protect your hand from the steam.

2. Add Cream and Cheese

   Switch the Instant Pot back to the Sauté function. Stir in the heavy cream and gradually add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
   Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste at this stage.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve the Soup

   Ladle the hot broccoli cheddar soup into bowls, garnishing with additional grated cheddar cheese or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, if desired.
   For an extra touch of luxury, serve with crusty bread or a side of garlic croutons.

Note

For this Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup, begin by selecting fresh, firm broccoli florets to ensure a vibrant, green hue and robust flavor. Choose a sharp cheddar cheese for a pronounced, tangy bite that complements the creamy base. Start by sautéing diced onions and minced garlic in a touch of butter using the sauté function, allowing them to become translucent and fragrant before adding a pinch of nutmeg, which enhances the soup's depth. Deglaze the pot with a splash of dry white wine, if desired, to lift the fond and infuse complexity. Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth, then secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for a mere 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release. Utilize an immersion blender directly in the pot to achieve your preferred consistency—smooth or with delightful chunks of broccoli. Stir in cream for richness, followed by gradually incorporating the grated cheddar, ensuring it melts smoothly without clumping. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, the key is in the cheese; avoid pre-shredded varieties as they often contain anti-caking agents that hinder melting. Serve with a garnish of crumbled crispy bacon or a sprinkle of chives for a flourish of color and flavor. This soup is best enjoyed with a side of crusty bread, perfect for dipping.

Keywords: broccoli, cheddar, soup, Instant Pot, creamy