Broccoli Cheese Soup Quiznos Recipe

Broccoli Cheese Soup is one of those classic comfort foods that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The combination of tender broccoli, velvety cheese, and rich cream makes for a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. But when you think of Quiznos Broccoli Cheese Soup, there’s something extra special about it – it’s velvety smooth with the perfect balance of flavors, making it a go-to for many. This recipe not only brings you that familiar taste but allows you to create it from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Whether you’ve had it paired with one of their signature sandwiches or enjoyed on a cold day, this soup is an ideal choice. Let’s dive into the Quiznos Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe – simple, easy to follow, and absolutely irresistible.

Broccoli Cheese Soup Quiznos Recipe

This Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe is modeled after the deliciously rich version served at Quiznos. By incorporating fresh broccoli, a medley of cheeses, and a creamy base, you’ll have a bowl of pure comfort.

Ingredients Needed

• Fresh Broccoli (4 cups): The star of the soup. Fresh florets create a perfect texture and flavor when combined with the creamy base.
• Butter (3 tbsp): Adds a rich depth of flavor and smoothness to the soup.
• Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Onions bring a natural sweetness and savory depth to the soup’s base.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): The perfect aromatic partner to onions, garlic adds a robust and savory flavor to the soup.
• All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Acts as a thickener for the creamy base, giving the soup its comforting, velvety consistency.
• Vegetable Broth (4 cups): You can also use chicken broth, but vegetable broth keeps the soup a little lighter while still providing depth.
• Whole milk (2 cups): Creates a smooth and rich texture for the soup. It balances the richness of the cheese.
• Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): The classic choice for this soup, giving it a nice sharpness and creaminess.
• Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds a softer, creamier texture that blends perfectly with the sharper cheddar.
• Salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors and seasons the soup to perfection.
• Black Pepper (to taste): Adds a bit of heat and balance to the richness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat to balance the creamy richness.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare The Vegetables

   • Start by washing the broccoli and cutting it into small florets. Set them aside.
   • Chop your onion finely and mince the garlic. These aromatics will form the base of your flavor.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until they turn soft and translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute. The garlic should become fragrant, but don’t let it burn.

3. Make The Roux

   • Sprinkle the flour into the pot and stir it with the onions and garlic. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, which helps get rid of the raw flour taste and starts to thicken the soup base.

4. Add The Broth And Milk

   • Gradually add the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to ensure there are no lumps from the flour.
   • Pour in the milk, continue stirring, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let this simmer for 5-7 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.

5. Add The Broccoli

   • Toss in the chopped broccoli, and let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the broccoli becomes tender. You want it cooked but still slightly crisp – not mushy!

6. Cheese It Up

   • Reduce the heat to low and add in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes thick and creamy.

7. Season To Taste

   • Add salt, pepper, and any optional red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

8. Serve And Enjoy

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, and for an extra touch, serve with a warm slice of crusty bread or a side salad. Enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating that perfectly balanced, comforting soup:

• Broccoli: Full of vitamins and antioxidants, broccoli adds not only a healthy punch to your soup but also a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the rich creaminess of the cheese.
• Cheeses: Cheddar offers sharpness and a little tang, while Monterey Jack adds that smooth, creamy melt that binds everything together. Combining these two gives a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
• Butter & Flour (Roux): The butter starts the flavor foundation, while the flour thickens the soup, giving it the signature creamy, velvety texture.
• Vegetable Broth: Adds a savory depth without overpowering the other flavors in the soup. It acts as the perfect neutral base for the cheese to shine.
• Milk: It gives the soup that luscious, creamy consistency that coats the broccoli and melts with the cheese.

Expert Tips

To take your Broccoli Cheese Soup from good to great, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: The broccoli should be tender but not mushy. Overcooking can result in a soggy texture and a loss of vibrant color.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of your soup. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives the soup a smoother finish.
• Make Ahead: This soup actually gets better the next day! The flavors have more time to develop, and the texture becomes even richer. Just store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Blend for a Smooth Texture: If you prefer a completely smooth soup, you can blend it with an immersion blender or regular blender once the broccoli is cooked. This creates a velvety, creamy texture.
• Spices: If you want a bit more complexity, add a pinch of ground nutmeg or paprika. These warm spices pair surprisingly well with the cheesy base.

Recipe Variations

Broccoli Cheese Soup is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, bacon bits, or sausage to the soup.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegan cheese for a dairy-free take on this soup.
• Extra Veggies: Add in some diced carrots, celery, or cauliflower for a more vegetable-packed soup.
• Spicy Twist: Incorporate jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick to balance the richness of the cheese.

Final Words

Broccoli Cheese Soup is the ultimate in cozy comfort food. The combination of broccoli, cheese, and cream comes together in a soup that’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special meal or just a regular day, this Quiznos-inspired recipe delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at home. Plus, it’s easy to customize and make your own!