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, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner prep often feels like a race against the clock, a frantic scramble to get something healthy and satisfying on the table before bedtime. That's why I've become utterly reliant on my Instant Pot – it's my secret weapon in the kitchen, a lifesaver that transforms weeknight dinners from stressful events into enjoyable moments. This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup is a prime example. It's creamy, comforting, and surprisingly light, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick, nutritious lunch.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Forget spending hours chopping vegetables and meticulously simmering a soup on the stovetop. This version comes together in minutes, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. The pressure cooking method ensures the broccoli retains its vibrant green color and tender texture, while the cheese melts into a luscious, velvety sauce. I often adjust the recipe based on what's in my fridge – sometimes I add a handful of leftover roasted chicken, or a splash of cream instead of half-and-half, and it's always delicious. The flexibility is a huge plus, especially on nights when meal planning has fallen by the wayside.
I’ve found that this soup is a huge hit with everyone in the family, even the pickiest eaters. My kids love the creamy cheese sauce, and I appreciate the hefty dose of vegetables hidden within. It's a perfect example of sneaking healthy ingredients into a kid-friendly meal. It’s also easily adaptable to dietary needs; it’s naturally gluten-free, and you can swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian. I’ve even made it dairy-free by using nutritional yeast and a plant-based milk alternative, creating a equally satisfying, albeit slightly different, flavour.
Beyond the convenience, this soup also reflects my philosophy on cooking: keeping things simple and focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients. It’s a testament to the idea that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. This soup embodies easy elegance—a delicious meal that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, leaving me with more time to focus on the things that really matter. It's become a staple in our household, a quick and satisfying meal that helps us nourish our bodies and connect as a family around the dinner table.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon for a heartier soup.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Experiment with cheeses: Try using a different type of cheese, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
- Boost the veggies: Add other vegetables like peas, corn, or potatoes.
This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simplicity and efficiency in the kitchen. It's a quick, delicious, and healthy meal that fits seamlessly into my busy life, and I hope it finds its way into yours too. Enjoy!
