Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup
This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious Youll never know its a lightened up version
This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious Youll never know its a lightened up version
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (i prefer chicken)
- 3 cups broccoli florets cut into very small pieces
- 1 cup matchstick carrots
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese*
- Carbohydrate 25.6110127947523 g
- Cholesterol 67.6473437976571 mg
- Fat 23.2270518508751 g
- Fiber 4.76512034867738 g
- Protein 8.74438368829566 g
- Saturated Fat 14.2063284574501 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (324g)
- Sodium 458.064085825224 mg
- Sugar 20.8458924460749 g
- Trans Fat 1.80736017199429 g
- Calories 328 calories
Step-by-step
- Start the Instant Pot in saute mode and melt the butter.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic and saute for two minutes.
- Stir in the flour and allow it to cook for one minute.
- Stir in the broth until it is a smooth consistency.
- Add broccoli, carrots, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Press cancel and put the lid on the Instant Pot with the vent in the sealing position.
- Set the Instant Pot on manual mode at high pressure for eight minutes.
- When the Instant Pot beeps, use the quick release method to release the pressure.
- Open the lid and set to saute mode again.
- Gradually stir in the half and half.
- Next, gradually stir in the cheese, stirring continuously, until it melts.
- Press cancel and serve! Enjoy!
My Favorite Weeknight Wonder: Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, soccer practice, and endless emails, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I've become obsessed with my Instant Pot. It's a lifesaver, transforming dinnertime from a stressful ordeal into a quick and joyful experience. And nothing embodies this better than my go-to recipe: Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup.
This recipe isn't just fast; it's unbelievably flavorful. The creamy, cheesy goodness is perfectly balanced by the vibrant taste of fresh broccoli and carrots. I love the way the Instant Pot creates such a rich and smooth texture, far surpassing any similar soup I've made on the stovetop. The secret, I think, lies in that initial saute, allowing the vegetables to release their flavors before being cooked under pressure. It's a little trick that makes all the difference. It's also surprisingly light; I've managed to make a truly decadent soup without feeling weighed down or guilty afterwards - a crucial aspect for a busy schedule. This recipe is a staple in my home; my kids devour it, and it's become a favorite amongst my friends who often ask me for the recipe.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can easily swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth, making it a perfect vegetarian option. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, too. A blend of cheddar and Gruyere would be divine, or maybe even a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra touch of sharpness. You can also adjust the amount of vegetables according to your preference. More broccoli? Go for it! Want to add some potatoes for extra creaminess? Absolutely! The possibilities are endless.
Beyond the versatility, what makes this recipe so special is its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, and the steps are straightforward, even for novice cooks. There’s no complicated chopping or intricate techniques required. It's the perfect meal for those days when you’re short on time but still crave something comforting and satisfying. It's become a weekly tradition in our household: a warm, delicious hug in a bowl that effortlessly fits into even the most jam-packed schedules.
Beyond the practicality, this soup offers a heartwarming element. The aroma that fills the kitchen as it simmers is intoxicating, a fragrant promise of deliciousness that always brings a smile to my face. And the shared experience of enjoying a meal together, particularly one as easy and enjoyable as this soup, is priceless. In our busy world, simple pleasures matter most, and this recipe perfectly encapsulates that sentiment – a testament to how even the simplest dishes can create lasting memories and strengthen family bonds.
So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, I encourage you to give this Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup a try. It's more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of efficient cooking and a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. It's a reminder that delicious, healthy food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. In fact, it can be incredibly easy, and that's something truly special.
Tips and Tricks:
- For an even creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cheese.
- If you don’t have matchstick carrots, you can use baby carrots or diced carrots instead.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup is more than just a recipe; it's a symbol of balance and efficiency in a busy life. It's a delicious solution to the daily challenge of providing a healthy and satisfying meal for myself and my family without sacrificing valuable time. It’s simple, it’s fast, and it’s undeniably delicious – the perfect combination for a busy mom like me.
