Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe

I absolutely love this Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe because it brings a cozy smoky warmth to the simple classic broccoli soup we all know and love. The rich, velvety texture from the gouda combined with fresh broccoli and a hint of paprika makes it uniquely comforting and perfect for a chilly evening at home.

When I first tried this, I was amazed at how effortlessly the flavors blended together, creating a soup that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing starter, this recipe delivers every time with minimal fuss.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe come together beautifully to balance creamy richness with fresh, earthy broccoli. I always recommend using fresh smoked gouda you can grate yourself for the best melt and flavor.

• Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness of the soup perfectly.
• Onion: A diced onion adds a sweet, aromatic base that builds great flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic amps up the savory notes without overpowering.
• All-purpose flour: This is your thickening agent, creating that lovely creamy texture without cream.
• Broth (vegetable or chicken): Choose according to your preference—it adds a savory depth to the soup.
• Whole milk: Gives the soup richness and smooth mouthfeel.
• Salt, paprika, and pepper: These simple spices bring subtle warmth and flavor balance.
• Broccoli: Using fresh broccoli florets is key for a vibrant taste and texture.
• Carrot: Grated carrot adds a touch of natural sweetness and color.
• Smoked gouda: Freshly grated for melting into the soup, this cheese is the star of the show.

Variations

I love mixing things up depending on the season or what’s in my fridge, and you can easily personalize this smoked gouda broccoli soup recipe for your taste or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment — it’s forgiving and versatile!

• Adding bacon or ham: For a smoky punch beyond the gouda, try crispy bacon bits stirred in at the end — my family loves the extra protein and flavor boost.
• Switching up cheese: If you don’t have smoked gouda, try a sharp cheddar or fontina for a different but still creamy twist.
• Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth and skip any added meat goodies to keep it fully plant-based.
• Simpler texture: If you prefer, blend half or all of the soup for a smoother consistency but keep some chunks for texture contrast.

How to Make Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe

Step 1: Build Your Flavor Base

Start by melting unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook gently until it’s translucent and starting to brown around the edges, about 4 minutes. This browning is where the soup gets its depth, so be patient here. Then, toss in your minced garlic and let it cook for 30 seconds—just until fragrant, not browned, to avoid bitterness.

Step 2: Make the Roux and Add Liquid

Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and garlic, stirring continuously to combine and cook for about one minute. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and starts thickening the base. Slowly whisk in your broth and whole milk, making sure to break up any lumps. Then, season with salt, paprika, and pepper. Whisk everything smoothly together and watch it start to thicken.

Step 3: Add Veggies and Simmer

Stir in your fresh broccoli florets and grated carrot. These veggies bring freshness and a slight sweetness that pairs amazingly with the smoky gouda. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Let it cook for 10-12 minutes until the broccoli is tender but not mushy — I always keep a close eye here so it stays vibrant and fresh.

Step 4: Melt in the Smoked Gouda

Remove the pot from heat and slowly stir in your freshly shredded smoked gouda. It’s important to add the cheese off the heat to prevent it from separating or getting grainy. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is luxuriously creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Ladle your soup into bowls and garnish as desired. I love serving it with buttery croutons or a sprinkle of extra smoked gouda. This soup is best enjoyed fresh and warm — it’s the perfect hug in a bowl!

How to Serve Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top this soup with crunchy homemade croutons or a sprinkle of extra grated smoked gouda for that extra cheesy punch. Sometimes, a dusting of smoked paprika or fresh chopped parsley adds a nice pop of color and mild smokiness that balances the richness.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs perfectly with a warm baguette or a fresh green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. I also love serving it alongside garlic bread or roasted asparagus for a satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve this smoked gouda broccoli soup in small hollowed-out bread bowls or mini ramekins topped with toasted cheese crisps for a fun presentation. It’s great at dinner parties where you want to impress without too much fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover smoked gouda broccoli soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. I find it tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had a chance to meld together.

Freezing

Freezing is a bit tricky because of the cheese and milk, but I’ve had good luck freezing this soup without the cheese, then adding fresh smoked gouda when reheating. Just cool the soup completely before freezing in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

When reheating, I warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. If it thickens too much, I add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it back up. Then I stir in freshly shredded smoked gouda at the end for that perfect creamy finish.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it brings warmth, comfort, and a little smoky surprise to an everyday vegetable. I really hope you give it a try — it’s quick, easy, and will make your weeknight dinners feel just a little more special. Trust me, once you taste that smoky, cheesy goodness with fresh broccoli, you’ll want to make it again and again!

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