Broccoli Ham and Cheese Soup
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
35 mins
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Total Time
50 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Course
Main Course, Soup
Broccoli Ham and Cheese Soup
Description
The recipe begins with sautéing diced ham in butter to lightly brown it, adding a savory and smoky element. Garlic and onions are softened in additional butter to develop sweetness and aromatic qualities. A roux of flour and thyme is cooked briefly before chicken broth is added for a flavorful base. Cubed potatoes cook in the broth until tender, then are mashed partially to thicken the soup and create a creamy consistency.
Finely chopped broccoli and heavy cream are added next, gently simmered so the broccoli becomes tender but retains some texture. Cheddar cheese is stirred in off the heat to melt smoothly into the soup, contributing a sharp, tangy note and creamy texture. The soup is seasoned with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
This soup is served hot and makes for a comforting meal with balanced smoky ham flavor, mild green vegetable freshness, and smooth cheesy richness. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter divided, unsalted
- 8 ounces ham diced, fully cooked
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 sweet onion diced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon thyme dried
- 4 cups chicken broth low sodium
- 1 russet potato peeled and cubed
- 16 ounces broccoli finely chopped, florets
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded, extra-sharp
- salt to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
Instructions
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ham, and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes; set aside.
- Melt remaining 3 tablespoons butter. Add garlic and onion, and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Whisk in flour and thyme until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Stir in chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Stir in potato. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until potato is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Using a potato masher, mash potatoes until desired consistency is reached. Stir in ham, broccoli and heavy cream. Cover and simmer until broccoli is tender, about 5-6 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Gradually stir in cheese until smooth; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Serve immediately.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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