Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup takes the beloved comfort of broccoli cheese soup and elevates it with deep, smoky richness. The gouda melts beautifully into the soup, creating a velvety texture that clings to each spoonful. The smoky flavor enhances the natural sweetness of broccoli, giving the dish a gourmet feel without complicating the cooking process. I once tried adding a splash of cream at the very end, and it made the soup incredibly silky without overshadowing the cheese. This is a cozy, satisfying bowl perfect for chilly evenings, meal-prep lunches, or pairing with crusty bread and a crisp salad. Its balance of smoky cheese, tender broccoli, and aromatic seasonings makes it a standout option when you crave warmth and indulgence. Whether you serve it for a casual dinner or as an elegant starter, Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is a comforting classic with a memorable twist.
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Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup: A Velvety, Flavor-Rich Twist on a Classic Comfort
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and smoky broccoli soup made with creamy smoked gouda cheese, tender broccoli florets, and aromatic vegetables—comforting, flavorful, and perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 1/2 cups shredded smoked gouda cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for richness)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Croutons or crispy bacon for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.
- Add broccoli and broth. Bring to a simmer and cook 10–12 minutes, until broccoli is tender.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency (smooth or slightly chunky).
- Stir in cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in smoked gouda and cheddar until melted.
- Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes; do not boil, or the cheese may separate.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm topped with croutons or bacon.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, add 1–2 tablespoons of flour to the onions before adding the broth.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.
- Swap half the broccoli for cauliflower for a lighter flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Broccoli florets
Broccoli forms the heart of the soup, offering mild sweetness and a tender texture once simmered. Cut into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Smoked gouda cheese
Smoked gouda adds velvety richness and an irresistible smoky depth. It melts smoothly and creates a luxurious finish.
Butter
Butter forms the base of the soup’s roux, adding richness that complements the cheese.
Onion
A finely chopped onion softens into the soup, adding subtle sweetness and aromatic flavor.
Garlic
Garlic deepens the savory profile, balancing the cheese’s richness.
Flour
Flour thickens the soup, giving it a creamy body without relying on heavy cream alone.
Chicken or vegetable broth
Broth adds depth and forms the foundation of the soup’s liquid base, balancing richness with savory notes.
Milk or half-and-half
Milk or half-and-half creates creaminess while keeping the texture light and smooth.
Salt and pepper
Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor and allow the smoked gouda to shine.
Paprika (optional)
A touch of paprika adds warmth and complements the smokiness of the gouda.
Directions
Begin by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and whisk until a smooth paste forms.
Gradually pour in the broth while whisking, ensuring the mixture remains smooth. Add the chopped broccoli florets and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook until the broccoli becomes tender, about 10–12 minutes.
Once the broccoli is soft, stir in the milk or half-and-half. Allow the soup to warm through without boiling. Add the shredded smoked gouda gradually, stirring well between additions to ensure it melts smoothly. Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika. For a smoother texture, blend part or all of the soup using an immersion blender; for a chunkier consistency, leave it as is.
Simmer gently for an additional 3–4 minutes to meld flavors, then serve warm with extra gouda grated on top.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, cooking requires 20–25 minutes, and blending or finishing takes an additional 5 minutes. Total estimated time: approximately 35–40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cheese from separating. Add a small splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. Freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes caused by the cheese.
Variations and Customizations
Extra Smoky Version
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or use double-smoked gouda for deeper flavor.
Roasted Broccoli Soup
Roast the broccoli before adding it to the pot for caramelized, nutty notes.
Bacon-Gouda Broccoli Soup
Stir in crisp bacon bits for salty crunch and smoky richness.
Cauliflower Blend
Replace half the broccoli with cauliflower for a milder, slightly sweeter variation.
Low-Carb Creamy Gouda Soup
Skip the flour and blend the soup thoroughly for a naturally thick texture.
Spicy Kick
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for heat.
Herb-Infused Soup
Stir in thyme or rosemary to bring aromatic depth.
Veggie Boost
Add carrots or celery sautéed with the onion for extra texture and sweetness.
Cheddar-Gouda Blend
Mix sharp cheddar with gouda for a bolder, more complex cheese flavor.
Creamier Version
Add more half-and-half or a splash of heavy cream for added richness.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded gouda?
It’s best to grate your own, as pre-shredded cheese may not melt smoothly.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
Can I blend the whole soup?
Absolutely—blend fully for a silky texture or only partially for a mix of smooth and chunky.
Why is my cheese clumping?
Add it slowly over low heat to ensure smooth melting.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well and cooks quickly.
Can I thicken the soup more?
Add an extra spoonful of flour when making the roux or blend more of the broccoli.
Can I add protein?
Shredded chicken or cooked sausage pairs well with the smoky flavor.
Will the smoked gouda be overwhelming?
Not at all—use less if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, but reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
What can I serve with the soup?
Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad complement it beautifully.
Conclusion
Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is a rich, comforting dish that brings smoky sophistication to a classic favorite. With its velvety texture, tender broccoli, and deep gouda flavor, it’s a satisfying choice for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or casual entertaining. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this soup offers a warm, nourishing bowl that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Serve it hot, pair it with your favorite sides, and savor a comforting meal that quickly becomes a go-to recipe.
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