Broccoli Cheddar Soup Instant Pot recipes have become a staple for those seeking a quick and comforting meal. Originating from the popular Panera Bread version, this creamy and cheesy soup has won the hearts of many. Its rich flavor, combined with the ease of preparation in an Instant Pot, makes it a preferred choice for busy families and individuals alike. The Instant Pot significantly cuts down cooking time and simplifies the process, allowing even novice cooks to create a restaurant-quality dish at home.
The benefits of using an Instant Pot for this recipe are manifold. Firstly, it consolidates various cooking steps into one pot, reducing cleanup and preparation time. The pressure cooking function of the Instant Pot ensures that the broccoli and other vegetables are perfectly cooked in a shorter period, preserving their flavors and nutritional content better than traditional cooking methods. Additionally, the ‘sauté’ feature allows for the vegetables to be lightly fried before adding liquids, enhancing the depth of flavor in the soup.
Another advantage of using the Instant Pot is its ability to maintain a consistent cooking temperature, which is crucial for melting the cheddar cheese into the soup without curdling. This appliance also seals in moisture, resulting in a soup that is both velvety and rich, without being overly thick. For those who love a good bowl of broccoli cheddar soup but are short on time, the Instant Pot version provides a delicious solution without compromise.
Moreover, this method is highly adaptable. Whether you prefer a chunkier texture or a smoother consistency, the Instant Pot can accommodate it. You can quickly adjust the amount of time the vegetables are cooked to suit your texture preferences, and the manual settings allow for fine-tuning, ensuring each bowl of soup meets your personal taste perfectly.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Convenience | The Instant Pot combines multiple cooking steps into one appliance, reducing cleanup and preparation time. |
| Cooking Quality | Pressure cooking in the Instant Pot cooks vegetables quickly, preserving flavor and nutrients. The ‘sauté’ feature enhances flavor by frying vegetables before adding liquids. |
| Temperature Control | Maintains consistent temperatures, crucial for integrating cheddar cheese smoothly into the soup without curdling. |
| Texture and Consistency | The Instant Pot’s settings allow for adjustments in cooking time and methods, accommodating preferences for smoother or chunkier soup textures. |
| Adaptability | The method is adaptable to personal taste and dietary requirements, with manual settings for fine-tuning the cooking process. |
Contents
Recipe Overview
This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, satisfying dish perfect for any season. It combines the quintessential flavors of fresh vegetables and rich cheese, creating a delightful meal that echoes the beloved Panera Bread version but with the convenience and speed of a pressure cooker. In this recipe, we focus on a few key ingredients that elevate the dish: broccoli, shredded carrots, celery, and sharp cheddar cheese. Each component brings its own unique texture and flavor, making the soup both nutritious and delicious.
One of the standout elements in this recipe is the use of Better than Bouillon Chicken Base. This product offers a robust foundation for the soup, providing depth and a complex flavor profile that can typically be achieved with homemade chicken broth. Using Better than Bouillon is an excellent time-saver, ensuring rich taste without the need to have premade or store-bought broth on hand. It’s a convenient alternative that simplifies the cooking process without sacrificing flavor.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Dish Type | Creamy, satisfying broccoli cheddar soup, perfect for any season. |
| Key Ingredients | Broccoli, shredded carrots, celery, and sharp cheddar cheese. Each adds unique texture and flavor. |
| Flavor Base | Uses Better than Bouillon Chicken Base to provide a rich, complex flavor foundation, serving as a time-saving alternative to homemade broth. |
| Inspiration | Echoes the popular Panera Bread version but adapted for quick preparation in an Instant Pot. |
| Convenience | Combines the benefits of quick pressure cooking with the rich flavors typical of slower cooking methods. |
Ingredients List
To prepare this heartwarming soup, you will need the following ingredients, precisely measured to ensure the best results:
Broccoli: 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces. Fresh broccoli is preferred for its firm texture and bright color, but you can also use frozen florets if fresh is not available.
Carrots: 1 cup of carrots, peeled and shredded. Shredded carrots melt into the soup, giving it a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
Celery: 1/2 cup of celery, diced. Celery adds a nice crunch and balances the creaminess of the soup with its mild, earthy flavor.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated. Sharp cheddar is recommended for its intense flavor and smooth melting properties. Avoid pre-grated cheese as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your soup.
Butter: 2 tablespoons, used for sautéing the vegetables, enriching the flavor base of the soup.
Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped, to add a foundational flavor.
Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced, for a hint of aromatic sharpness.
Flour: 3 tablespoons, to thicken the soup and create a rich, velvety texture.
Chicken Base: 2 teaspoons of Better than Bouillon Chicken Base, mixed with 4 cups of water. This combination is used instead of traditional chicken broth and infuses the soup with deep, savory flavors.
Milk: 1 cup of whole milk, contributing to the creamy texture of the soup.
Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup of heavy cream, for an extra indulgent, creamy consistency.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Nutmeg: A pinch of ground nutmeg, to enhance the flavors with a warm, nutty aroma.
Optional for garnish: Chopped parsley or additional grated cheddar cheese.
The preparation of these ingredients in the Instant Pot not only maintains their nutritional integrity but also merges their flavors beautifully, creating a harmonious and satisfying dish. The combination of tender broccoli, aromatic vegetables, and creamy, sharp cheddar enveloped in a rich, cheesy broth makes this soup a must-try for all seasons. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it promises to deliver comfort and warmth with each spoonful.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Broccoli | 4 cups | Fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces; frozen can be substituted. |
| Carrots | 1 cup | Peeled and shredded to meld into the soup and add sweetness and color. |
| Celery | 1/2 cup | Diced for a crunchy texture and earthy flavor. |
| Sharp Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups | Freshly grated for intense flavor and smooth texture. Avoid pre-grated cheese. |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | Used for sautéing the vegetables and enriching the flavor base of the soup. |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped to provide foundational flavor. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced to add aromatic sharpness. |
| Flour | 3 tablespoons | To thicken the soup and create a velvety texture. |
| Chicken Base | 2 teaspoons | Better than Bouillon Chicken Base mixed with 4 cups of water, replacing traditional chicken broth. |
| Milk | 1 cup | Whole milk for creamy texture. |
| Heavy Cream | 1/2 cup | Adds extra creaminess and indulgence. |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | For seasoning. |
| Nutmeg | A pinch | Enhances flavors with a warm, nutty aroma. |
| Optional Garnish | As desired | Chopped parsley or additional grated cheddar cheese. |
Equipment Needed
To make the Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an Instant Pot, the right equipment can make the preparation process smoother and ensure your soup turns out perfectly creamy and delicious every time.
For this recipe, we recommend using the 6 quart Instant Pot Duo 60 7 in 1. This model is versatile, featuring options for pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, yogurt making, steaming, warming, and sautéing. Its capacity is ideal for family meals, making it perfect for preparing a batch of broccoli cheddar soup.
Cheese Grater: A good quality cheese grater will help you grate the sharp cheddar cheese finely, ensuring it melts evenly into the soup without clumping.
Vegetable Peeler: Useful for quickly peeling carrots with minimal waste.
Chef’s Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently.
Cutting Board: To prepare your ingredients safely and keep your countertops clean.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring all your ingredients accurately, especially the liquids and cheese.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the ingredients in the Instant Pot to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Instant Pot Duo 60 7 in 1 | 6-quart capacity suitable for family meals, with multiple functions including sautéing and pressure cooking. |
| Cheese Grater | To finely grate sharp cheddar cheese for even melting in the soup. |
| Vegetable Peeler | For quickly peeling carrots with minimal waste. |
| Chef’s Knife | Essential for efficiently chopping vegetables. |
| Cutting Board | Provides a safe surface for preparing ingredients and keeps countertops clean. |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Necessary for accurately measuring liquids, cheese, and other ingredients. |
| Wooden Spoon or Spatula | Helps in stirring the ingredients in the Instant Pot to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparation of Vegetables
Broccoli: Start by rinsing the broccoli under cold water. Chop the florets into bite-sized pieces, small enough to fit comfortably on a spoon. If you prefer to use the stems, make sure to peel off the tough outer layer with your vegetable peeler and dice the softer inner part into small cubes.
Carrots: Peel the carrots using the vegetable peeler and then either shred them using the cheese grater or slice them thinly matchstick style. Shredded carrots melt better into the soup, adding flavor and color without overpowering the texture.
Celery: Wash the celery stalks under cold water. Dice them into small pieces, similar in size to the broccoli florets, to ensure they cook uniformly.
Cooking in the Instant Pot
Sauté Vegetables: Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and add butter. Once the butter is melted and hot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant. Then add the prepared broccoli, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes to bring out their flavors.
Adding Liquids: Pour in the water mixed with Better than Bouillon Chicken Base, ensuring that the vegetables are just covered by the liquid. This not only helps in cooking the vegetables perfectly but also forms the flavorful base of your soup.
Adding Cheese and Final Touches
Cheese Integration: After the vegetables are tender, gently stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese into the Instant Pot. It’s important to add the cheese gradually while stirring, as this will prevent it from clumping and ensure it melts smoothly into the soup.
Thickening the Soup: Mix flour with a little water to create a slurry and add this to the soup while stirring continuously. This will help thicken the soup to a creamy consistency.
Final Seasoning: Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to taste. Continue to stir until all the ingredients are well combined and the soup has a smooth, velvety texture.
Cream Addition: For an extra creamy texture, stir in the heavy cream last, just before you’re ready to serve. This adds a rich finish to the soup.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture
Ensure continuous stirring when adding the cheese and cream to avoid any ingredients sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Adjust the thickness by adding a bit more water or broth if the soup is too thick for your liking.
Use fresh ingredients as much as possible as they tend to have better flavor and texture.
By following these detailed steps and using the specified equipment, you can create a delightful and comforting bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s perfect for any meal.
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Preparation of Vegetables | Rinse and chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Peel and shred or slice carrots. Dice celery uniformly. |
| Sauté Vegetables | Set Instant Pot to sauté. Add butter, onions, and garlic until translucent. Add broccoli, carrots, and celery and sauté for 5 minutes. |
| Adding Liquids | Pour in water mixed with Better than Bouillon Chicken Base to cover the vegetables. |
| Cheese Integration | After vegetables are tender, gradually stir in grated sharp cheddar cheese to avoid clumping. |
| Thickening the Soup | Create a flour slurry with water and stir into the soup for a creamy consistency. |
| Final Seasoning | Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in heavy cream last for a rich finish. |
| Tips for Perfect Texture | Continuously stir when adding cheese and cream. Adjust thickness with water or broth if needed. Use fresh ingredients for better flavor and texture. |
Tips and Variations
When it comes to customizing your Broccoli Cheddar Soup, the options are plentiful, allowing you to tailor the dish to your personal tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some suggestions to modify the vegetable content and cheese type, along with tips for serving that can enhance your soup experience.
Vegetable Adjustments: The great thing about this soup is its versatility. If you prefer a heartier texture, consider adding more broccoli or including the stems, finely chopped. For a different flavor profile, you can incorporate other vegetables such as spinach, kale, or cauliflower. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all vegetables are tender.
Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is the classic choice for this soup, experimenting with different types of cheese can bring new dimensions to the dish. Try using Gruyère for a nuttier flavor, or a combination of mild cheddar and Monterey Jack for a smoother taste. For those who like a bit of spice, a pepper jack can add a zesty kick.
Bread Bowls: Serving your broccoli cheddar soup in a bread bowl makes for a delightful presentation and a complete meal. Hollow out a round loaf of sourdough or boule, toast it slightly to harden the inside, and then pour the hot soup right before serving.
Pairing with Bread: If bread bowls aren’t your style, consider pairing your soup with a side of crusty bread, garlic toast, or cheese crackers. These are perfect for dipping and add a satisfying crunch.
Garnishes: Enhance the visual appeal and texture of your soup with garnishes. A sprinkle of extra cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some crispy bacon bits can elevate the soup from simple to spectacular. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives also add a pop of color and freshness.
| Category | Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Vegetable Adjustments | Add more broccoli or its finely chopped stems for a heartier texture. Include vegetables like spinach, kale, or cauliflower for variety. |
| Cheese Variations | Experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for new flavors and textures. |
| Serving in Bread Bowls | Serve the soup in a hollowed-out, slightly toasted round loaf of sourdough or boule for a delightful presentation. |
| Pairing with Bread | Pair the soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or cheese crackers for dipping. |
| Garnishes | Enhance with extra cheese, sour cream, crispy bacon bits, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and appeal. |
Additional Recipe Recommendations
If you love this Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup, here are some other recipes you might enjoy, each adaptable to either an Instant Pot or a slow cooker:
Loaded Baked Potato Soup: This creamy, comforting soup is filled with all the classic baked potato toppings, including sour cream, chives, bacon, and cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for a cold day and can be made in the Instant Pot or slow cooker for convenience.
Buffalo Chicken Chili: Combining the spicy flavors of buffalo sauce with the hearty elements of chili, this recipe is a bold twist on traditional chili. It’s excellent for those who enjoy a little heat and can be prepared in both the Instant Pot and slow cooker.
Pizza Soup: Imagine all your favorite pizza toppings in a delicious, tomato-based soup. This fun, flavorful dish can be customized based on your pizza preferences and cooks wonderfully in an Instant Pot or slow cooker.
Cheeseburger Soup: This soup captures all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, making it a hit for kids and adults alike. Ground beef, onions, cheese, and a creamy broth make this a filling meal that can be easily adapted to the Instant Pot or slow cooker.
Each of these recipes provides comfort and taste, perfect for diversifying your meal planning while utilizing the convenience of modern cooking appliances. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, hearty, or uniquely comforting, there’s a soup recipe here to satisfy every craving.
| Recipe | Description | Cooking Appliance |
|---|---|---|
| Loaded Baked Potato Soup | Creamy soup with classic baked potato toppings like sour cream, chives, bacon, and cheddar cheese. | Instant Pot or Slow Cooker |
| Buffalo Chicken Chili | A spicy twist on traditional chili with the bold flavors of buffalo sauce. | Instant Pot or Slow Cooker |
| Pizza Soup | Tomato-based soup featuring all your favorite pizza toppings, customizable to taste. | Instant Pot or Slow Cooker |
| Cheeseburger Soup | A soup that captures the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, including ground beef, onions, cheese, and a creamy broth. | Instant Pot or Slow Cooker |
Pinning and Saving the Recipe
In the digital age, having your favorite recipes at your fingertips can make meal planning and preparation much easier. For those who have tried and loved this Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup, pinning and saving the recipe for later use is a practical way to keep it handy. Whether you’re browsing on a laptop or scrolling through your smartphone, here are some tips to efficiently save this delicious recipe:
Bookmarking on Your Browser: Most browsers offer a bookmarking feature that allows you to save web pages with just a click. Create a dedicated folder for recipes in your bookmarks to keep things organized. Whenever you feel the urge to whip up some broccoli cheddar soup, you’ll know exactly where to find the recipe.
Pinning on Pinterest: Pinterest is a fantastic tool for organizing and sharing recipes. Create a board specifically for soups or Instant Pot meals and pin the recipe there. This not only saves the recipe for your personal use but also shares it with others who might be looking for dinner inspiration.
Using Recipe Management Apps: Several apps are available that are designed to store recipes, create shopping lists, and even plan meals. Apps like Paprika and Yummly allow you to import recipes directly from the web and access them anytime from your mobile device or tablet.
Printing a Hard Copy: Sometimes, having a physical copy of a recipe can be handy, especially if you prefer to have something tangible to refer to while cooking. Print out the recipe and store it in a kitchen binder that’s easily accessible whenever you’re ready to cook.
Sharing on Social Media: If you found the soup particularly delightful, share the recipe link on your social media profiles. This not only bookmarks it for you but also provides your friends and family with the chance to enjoy it as well.
By saving this recipe in a manner that suits your lifestyle, you ensure that this go-to meal is just a few taps or clicks away, ready to be enjoyed again whenever the craving strikes.
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Bookmarking on Your Browser | Use the bookmarking feature of your browser to save the recipe page. Organize bookmarks in a dedicated recipes folder. |
| Pinning on Pinterest | Create a Pinterest board for soups or Instant Pot meals and pin the recipe there for easy reference and sharing. |
| Using Recipe Management Apps | Utilize apps like Paprika and Yummly to store recipes, create shopping lists, and plan meals. Import recipes directly from the web to access them on various devices. |
| Printing a Hard Copy | Print the recipe and store it in a kitchen binder for quick reference without digital devices. |
| Sharing on Social Media | Share the recipe link on social media platforms to save it in your profile and share it with others for their enjoyment. |
This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup represents the perfect blend of simplicity and delectable taste, capturing the essence of a beloved comfort food with the convenience of modern cooking technology. Its creamy texture, combined with the rich flavors of sharp cheddar and fresh vegetables, creates a satisfying dish that’s both easy to prepare and delightful to consume.
The versatility of the recipe allows for numerous variations, whether you choose to adjust the type of cheese, experiment with additional vegetables, or alter the thickness to suit your preference. Each bowl can be a new experience, tailored to your specific tastes or dietary needs.
We invite you to share your own experiences and variations of this soup. Did you try a different type of cheese? Maybe you added some unique toppings or served it in an unconventional way? Sharing your culinary adventures not only inspires others but also fosters a community of food lovers who appreciate the joy of cooking and the pleasures of a good meal. So, don’t hesitate to comment, share photos, and discuss how you’ve made this broccoli cheddar soup your own. Let’s keep the conversation going and continue to inspire each other with our kitchen creations!