As the chilly winds of autumn begin to swirl outside, there’s nothing quite like snuggling up with a bowl of homemade soup. This Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup is my go-to recipe when I crave comfort and warmth. The moment I sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, my kitchen transforms into a sanctuary of inviting aromas, instantly lifting my spirits. The best part? Roasting the Brussels sprouts before adding them to the mix creates a rich, caramelized flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the sharp cheddar cheese, resulting in a satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner with friends or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this easy, creamy soup is a delightful choice. So, let’s dive into this soul-soothing recipe that promises to turn your kitchen into a haven of hearty flavors and nostalgic comfort.
Why will you love this Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup?
Comforting warmth: This soup is your ultimate cozy companion on chilly nights, providing a delightful way to embrace the season.
Simple steps: With a straightforward preparation process, even beginner chefs can master this comforting dish.
Nutritious goodness: Packed with the earthy goodness of Brussels sprouts and the creamy richness of cheddar, it’s a nutritious meal option.
Versatile flavors: Substitute with broccoli or cauliflower for variety, or go vegan with simple adaptations.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, this soup will impress everyone around your table, just like a warm bowl of Chicken Sweetcorn Soup.
Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to embrace the warmth and flavors of this comforting soup!
For the Soup
- Brussels Sprouts – The star of this dish, providing an earthy flavor; swap with broccoli or cauliflower for a twist.
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing aromatics and roasting sprouts; any cooking oil works if you’re in a pinch.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; yellow or white onions are the best choices.
- Garlic – Brings an aromatic base to the mix; fresh minced garlic is preferable for vibrant flavor.
- Vegetable Broth – Serves as the soup’s flavor base; chicken broth can be used for a non-vegetarian alternative.
- Heavy Cream – Ensures that luscious creamy texture; substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Delivers the rich creaminess that this soup is known for; opt for vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Salt & Pepper – Simple seasons to enhance the overall flavor; adjust to your taste preference.
Optional Additions
- Crispy Bacon Bits – For an extra salty crunch; delightful as a topping!
- Croutons – A delicious way to add texture; store-bought or homemade, they’re always a hit!
- Nutmeg – A pinch adds warmth and depth; perfect for a cozy twist!
Embrace the richness of our Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup today and make it your family’s new favorite!
How to Make Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup
-
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes. This creates a fragrant base for your soup!
-
Roast Brussels Sprouts: Halve or quarter the Brussels sprouts and transfer them to a baking pan. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until they’re crispy and caramelized, deepening their flavor.
-
Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted Brussels sprouts to the pot with the sautéed aromatics. Pour in vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for around 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
-
Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Continue mixing until the cheese melts completely, adding an irresistible creaminess to the soup.
-
Blend: Use an immersion blender for a creamy texture while still keeping some chunks, or carefully transfer batches to a regular blender to purée.
-
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with extra cheese or crispy bacon bits if desired. Enjoy the warmth in every spoonful!
Optional: For extra flair, sprinkle with crispy bacon bits for a delightful crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for the Best Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup
-
Roast for Flavor: Make sure to roast the Brussels sprouts until they are crispy and caramelized to unlock their nutty flavors—this step is crucial for your cozy creamy Brussels sprout and cheddar soup.
-
Fresh Garlic Matters: Opt for fresh, minced garlic over powdered for a rich aroma and a deep flavor profile. It makes a world of difference!
-
Blend to Preference: For a smoother soup, blend thoroughly; if you prefer more texture, blend just partially to retain some of those delicious chunks.
-
Season Generously: Always taste and adjust the seasoning! A little extra salt and pepper can elevate your soup into something truly comforting.
-
Chill Properly: If you have leftovers, cool the soup before storing it in airtight containers to maintain its creamy consistency. Reheat on the stovetop for the best results.
Storage Tips for Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the soup cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in suitable containers, leaving space for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing flavor.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth and creamy.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results, ensuring the flavors remain rich and vibrant.
What to Serve with Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup?
Transform your cozy soup experience into a complete meal that unwinds your senses and fills your heart!
-
Crusty Bread: The perfect partner to scoop up every creamy bite, adding a satisfying texture that balances the smoothness of the soup.
-
Fresh Green Salad: A vibrant salad with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness, adding an invigorating freshness that enhances the overall meal experience.
-
Crispy Bacon Bits: Sprinkled on top, they provide a crunchy, salty contrast that perfectly complements the soup’s creaminess and earthy flavors.
-
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted to caramelized perfection not only brightens your plate but echoes the warm, comforting tones of the soup.
-
Nutty Quinoa: Add a healthy twist with fluffy quinoa, which offers a delightful nutty flavor and elevates the dish’s nutritional profile.
-
Homemade Croutons: These add a delightful crunch while soaking up the soup’s flavorful broth, transforming every bite into a textural delight.
-
Herbal Tea: Pairing your meal with a soothing herbal tea enhances the cozy vibe and rounds out your experience with an inviting warmth.
-
Dessert: Finish your meal with a light dessert, such as apple crisp or chocolate mousse, providing a touch of sweetness that complements the savory soup.
Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe and play around with flavors and textures that excite your taste buds!
- Broccoli Swap: Use broccoli instead of Brussels sprouts for a brighter, slightly sweet flavor that’s equally delicious.
- Cauliflower Delight: Substitute with cauliflower to create a lighter, subtly nutty base that pairs wonderfully with cheese.
- Vegan Twist: Replace heavy cream and cheddar with coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a creamy, dairy-free delight.
- Nutmeg Boost: A whisper of nutmeg enhances warmth and adds a dreamy depth—a delightful secret to elevate your soup!
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits or toasted croutons on top for a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during simmering for an inviting aroma and fresh flavor notes.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a dash of red pepper flakes for a gentle heat that perfectly complements the creamy cheese.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness, resulting in a comforting blend of comforting flavors with a twist.
Make Ahead Options
These Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can roast the Brussels sprouts and sauté the aromatics up to 24 hours in advance, storing each in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Just before serving, combine the prepped ingredients in a pot with vegetable broth, simmer for about 10 minutes, then stir in the heavy cream and cheese until melted. This ensures the soup retains its rich, velvety texture while you enjoy the delightful flavors just as if it were made fresh! For longer storage, consider freezing the soup for up to 3 months; simply reheat gently on the stovetop when you’re ready for a comforting meal.
Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for bright green, tightly closed buds. Avoid any with yellowing leaves or dark spots all over, as these can indicate overripeness. The fresher, the better, as they will enhance the flavor of your soup!
How should I store leftovers of the soup?
Store any leftover Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before sealing it to help maintain that lovely creaminess.
Can I freeze the soup? What’s the best way to do it?
Yes, you can freeze this delightful soup! First, let it cool completely, then transfer it to suitable containers. Make sure to leave a bit of space at the top since it will expand when frozen. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then gently warm it on the stovetop.
What if my soup is too thick? How can I fix it?
If your Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a little vegetable broth or water while stirring over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. Always taste again after adjusting, as you may want to add a pinch more seasoning!
Are there any dietary considerations for this soup (vegan options, allergies)?
Definitely! To adapt this recipe for a vegan diet, use plant-based heavy cream alternatives like coconut milk and substitute the sharp cheddar cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. For allergens, always double-check labels on your broth and cheese, ensuring they meet your dietary needs.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts instead of fresh?
You can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but they won’t yield the same roasted flavor. To use them, simply sauté them directly in the pot with the onions and garlic for about 10-12 minutes until heated through, then proceed with the rest of the recipe. Enjoy the cozy flavors regardless!
The Best Cozy Creamy Brussels Sprout and Cheddar Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Halve or quarter the Brussels sprouts and transfer them to a baking pan. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Add the roasted Brussels sprouts to the pot with the sautéed aromatics. Pour in vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for around 10 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts completely.
- Use an immersion blender for a creamy texture, keeping some chunks intact, or transfer to a regular blender.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with extra cheese or crispy bacon bits if desired.
Notes
Leave a Comment