Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Smoked gouda broccoli soup is my go-to recipe when I need something warm, creamy, and ready in under 30 minutes. This one-pot wonder combines tender broccoli florets with the rich, smoky flavor of fresh-grated gouda cheese, creating a bowl of pure comfort that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier to make.

I still remember the first time I made this soup on a busy weeknight. The kids were hungry, I was tired, and I needed something quick that didn’t sacrifice flavor. As the smoked gouda melted into that velvety broth, filling the kitchen with its irresistible aroma, I knew I’d found a keeper. The combination of smoky cheese and fresh broccoli creates a satisfying depth that makes this smoked gouda broccoli soup taste like it simmered for hours, not minutes. It’s become one of those reliable weeknight soup recipes that the whole family requests again and again.

What You’ll Need for This Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

I always use fresh smoked gouda from the deli counter instead of pre-shredded cheese. Pro tip: grating it yourself takes just a few extra minutes but makes all the difference in creating that smooth, creamy texture without any grainy residue.

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 16 ounces broth, vegetable or chicken
• 16 ounces whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 8 ounces (226g) smoked gouda, fresh grated

Pro tip: I prefer using whole milk for the creamiest texture, but you can substitute with half and half or heavy cream if you want an even richer soup. Avoid low-fat milk as it may cause the soup base to separate during cooking.

How to Make Perfect Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Step 1: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add onions and cook until they begin to brown and turn translucent, about 4 minutes. The onions should be soft and fragrant. Add garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds until aromatic. Add flour and stir to create a paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This creates a roux that will thicken your soup beautifully.

Step 2: Add chicken broth, milk, salt, paprika, and pepper, whisking continuously to incorporate the roux. Keep whisking until the mixture is completely smooth with no lumps. This step is crucial for achieving that silky texture in your smoked gouda broccoli soup.

Step 3: Add broccoli and carrot, stir to combine, and bring to a simmer. You’ll notice small bubbles forming around the edges. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until vegetables are cooked to your liking. Pro tip: Test your broccoli by piercing a piece through with a fork. It should slide through easily but still have a slight bite.

Step 4: Remove soup from heat and slowly add shredded gouda, stirring to incorporate. Add cheese in small handfuls, stirring after each addition until completely melted. This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency. Continue stirring until all cheese has melted into a velvety, golden soup.

Step 5: Serve warm topped with croutons or extra shredded cheese. The soup should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.

Delicious Pairings for Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread and light salads that complement its rich, smoky flavors.

Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins: These aromatic muffins are the best sides for smoked gouda broccoli soup because their herby, garlicky flavor cuts through the richness while the soft texture is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.

Crusty Artisan Bread: A thick slice of crusty bread provides the ideal vessel for soaking up every last drop of this soup, and the crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the smooth, velvety texture.

Simple Green Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese soup and adds fresh, crisp vegetables to round out your meal nutritionally.

Extra Shredded Cheese: Top each bowl with additional smoked gouda for extra indulgence and a beautiful presentation that makes this soup feel restaurant-worthy.

More Comforting Soup Recipes to Try

This smoked gouda broccoli soup makes a wonderful addition to any soup rotation. For another creamy and satisfying option, try the High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, which offers a protein boost while maintaining that rich, cheesy flavor. The Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower Soup provides a similar velvety texture with a lighter vegetable base that pairs beautifully with crusty bread.

When planning a cozy dinner menu, consider pairing this soup with the Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins for the perfect bread accompaniment. For those seeking more vegetable-forward soups, the Roasted Cauliflower Soup delivers incredible depth of flavor through simple roasting techniques.

Storing Your Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

Leftovers will keep for 3 to 4 days in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop and deepen overnight, making day-two soup even more delicious.

When reheating, I recommend using medium-low heat on the stovetop and stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

Pro tip: This soup is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy content. The cream and cheese can separate and become grainy when thawed, so plan to enjoy all leftovers within 4 days for optimal texture and flavor.

Common Questions About Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup

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