Name: Creamy Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Whip Up in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (Substitute with olive oil for dairy-free); 1 medium onion (Chopped); 2 cloves garlic (Minced); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour); 4 cups broth (vegetable or chicken) (Homemade broth elevates flavor); 1 cup whole milk (Substitute with half & half or heavy cream); 1 teaspoon salt (Adjust based on broth's salt content); 1 teaspoon paprika (Consider smoked paprika); ½ teaspoon black pepper (Adjust to taste); 4 cups broccoli (Chopped into florets); 1 medium carrot (Grated); 1.5 cups smoked gouda (Freshly grated)

A whiff of smoke, combined with the crisp scent of fresh broccoli, pulls me into my cozy kitchen where comfort food reigns supreme. I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup, a creamy delight that comes together quickly, ready to warm you up in just 30 minutes. This hearty dish not only offers a satisfying meal for those chilly evenings, but it’s also a one-pot wonder that keeps clean-up a breeze. Picture this: a velvety soup brimming with tender broccoli, all enveloped in a smoky cheese embrace—it’s simply irresistible! Who says you can’t have gourmet flavors in your home kitchen? Ready for a comforting adventure that’ll make your taste buds sing? Let’s dive in!

Why is this soup a must-try?

Comforting, creamy goodness: This Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is the ultimate hug in a bowl, with its rich and velvety texture. Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when unexpected guests arrive. Flavor explosion: The smoky gouda pairs flawlessly with fresh broccoli, creating a comforting dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. One-pot wonder: Enjoy the ease of minimal clean-up while savoring this delicious soup. Versatile delights: Customize it with different veggies or proteins—try adding spinach or leftover chicken for an extra nutritional boost. Whether paired with Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar for a side dish or a simple salad, this soup will quickly become a family favorite!

Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Onion – Provides a savory base flavor; use shallots for a milder taste.
Garlic – Enhances flavor and adds depth; fresh garlic is recommended for best results.
All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Broth (Vegetable or Chicken) – Base liquid that adds flavor; homemade broth elevates the taste.
Whole Milk – Creates creaminess; for a richer texture, substitute with half & half or heavy cream.

For Seasoning

Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust based on broth’s salt content.
Paprika – Provides mild smokiness that complements gouda flavor; consider smoked paprika for added depth.
Pepper – Adds warmth and seasoning; adjust to your taste.

For the Vegetables

Broccoli – The main vegetable component; chopped into small florets ensures even cooking.
Carrot – Adds sweetness and color; grate for quick integration.

For the Star Ingredient

Smoked Gouda – This key cheese contributes a rich, smoky taste that makes the soup unforgettable; freshly grated is best.

This Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will warm your soul on a chilly day!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Then, sprinkle in 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant and golden, creating a savory base for your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup.

Step 2: Make Roux
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly to create a smooth paste. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the flour to absorb the butter and flavors, which will thicken the soup beautifully. Be sure the flour is fully incorporated to avoid clumps in your creamy blend.

Step 3: Combine Liquids
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth and 1 cup of whole milk. As you stir, add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to enhance the flavors. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to gently bubble—this signifies the base of your rich Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is ready.

Step 4: Add Vegetables
Introduce 4 cups of chopped broccoli florets and 1 grated carrot into the pot, ensuring even distribution in the soup base. Stir well to combine all ingredients, then bring to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook on low heat for 10–12 minutes, or until the broccoli is fork-tender and vibrant in color.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese
Once the broccoli reaches the desired tenderness, remove the saucepan from heat. Gradually add 1.5 cups of shredded smoked gouda to the pot. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely into the soup, creating a velvety and creamy texture. Take a moment to savor the rich, smoky aroma wafting through your kitchen as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle the warm Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup into bowls and serve immediately. To elevate your dish, top each serving with crunchy croutons for added texture. Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a delightful meal!

What to Serve with Creamy Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Indulging in a steaming bowl of this rich soup is only the beginning of your cozy dining experience.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, crusty bread provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy soup, adding a comforting crunch. Enjoy it warm for the best experience!
Garlic Butter Croutons: Add a delightful crunch and a boost of flavor; these croutons elevate each bite, enhancing the soup’s smoky notes. A sprinkle on top can transform your bowl into a gourmet delight!
Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, refreshing your palate. It adds a burst of color and nutrition, making the meal feel complete.
Roasted Veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a warm, sweet side dish that complements the smoky flavors of the soup. Think roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or even colorful bell peppers!
Cheddar and Chive Scones: Buttery scones packed with cheese and chives can be the perfect accompaniment to dip or enjoy alongside your soup. They add a delightful texture to your comfort food meal.
Apple Crisp for Dessert: Finish off your meal with a warm apple crisp, offering a sweet and comforting end. The cinnamon and sweetness perfectly balance the savory soup for a delightful experience.

How to Store and Freeze Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Fridge: Store your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to preserve its creamy texture.

Freezer: Transfer the cooled soup to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain creaminess. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore texture.

Batch Cooking: Consider making a double batch of this comforting soup for easy meals during busy weeks—just store half for future cozy nights!

Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Variations

Feel free to explore and personalize this recipe to make it your own and to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a creamy texture without dairy.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep the soup thick and delicious for gluten-sensitive folks.
Extra Protein: Stir in cooked bacon or shredded rotisserie chicken to add a savory, hearty protein boost that pairs beautifully with the smoky gouda.
Veggie Boost: Add fresh spinach or peas along with the broccoli for added nutrition and color, making the soup a vibrant green delight!
Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. Adjust to your taste for the perfect warmth!
Cheese Substitutes: If gouda isn’t available, try using sharp cheddar or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Enhance your soup’s aroma by adding fresh herbs like thyme or oregano during cooking for a fragrant, flavorful twist.
Creamy Variation: For an even richer mouthfeel, try mixing in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese or cream at the end, giving the soup a luxurious finish.

With these ideas, you can customize your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup to delight your palate and keep meal times exciting! For even more comfort food inspiration, check out the cozy Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar soup or explore a creamy twist with my Hearty Reuben Soup.

Expert Tips for Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Cheese Freshness: Always grate fresh smoked gouda instead of using pre-shredded cheese. This prevents graininess and ensures a smooth, creamy texture in your soup.
Veggie Tenderness: Be sure to cook the broccoli until it’s just fork-tender. Overcooking can lead to mushy bits, affecting the overall texture of your smoked gouda broccoli soup.
Flavor Enhancement: If using low-sodium broth, amp up the seasonings with additional salt and pepper to ensure your soup reaches its maximum flavor potential.
Thickness Control: If you prefer a thicker soup, allow it to simmer longer after adding the vegetables, stirring occasionally. Conversely, add more broth for a lighter consistency.
Creative Add-ins: Experiment with adding other vegetables like spinach or even proteins such as shredded chicken, enhancing both nutrition and flavor in your smoked gouda broccoli soup.

Make Ahead Options

These Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can chop the broccoli and grate the carrot up to 3 days in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can make the creamy base (steps 1 through 4) up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it as well. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the soup on low heat, then stir in the shredded gouda until melted (step 5). This way, you’ll enjoy the same rich, smoky flavor with minimal effort on the day of serving!

Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of broccoli should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli is best for achieving that tender yet crisp texture. Look for vibrant green florets without dark spots or yellowing. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli can also work well, just ensure it’s thawed before adding it to the soup.

How long can I store leftover Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup?
You can store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain its creamy consistency. When you’re ready to enjoy again, just reheat on the stovetop or microwave!

Can I freeze Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Once it has cooled, transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and warm it gently on the stovetop, stirring in a bit of milk if needed.

What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
No worries! If your soup thickens too much after being refrigerated or frozen, simply add a splash of broth or milk while reheating. Stir vigorously to ensure it’s smooth and creamy once again.

Is this soup gluten-free?
If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This will maintain the soup’s delicious consistency without compromising on flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets?
It’s best to avoid sharing this soup with your pets. Ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats in significant amounts. Stick to pet-friendly treats for your furry friends!