Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Pasta Shells Recipe
This comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Shells combines tender pasta shells and creamy sharp cheddar cheese with a smooth, flavorful broccoli soup base. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup features fresh broccoli, sautéed onions and garlic, and a blend of spices to enhance every bite. The addition of pasta shells adds a delightful texture, making it a hearty and satisfying dish ideal for lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Dairy and Dairy Alternatives
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup pasta shells
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions in a medium saucepan until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onion: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning and release the garlic’s aroma.
- Cook Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-12 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend Soup: Using an immersion blender, carefully purée the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and blend until smooth.
- Add Milk: Stir in the whole milk and return the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat to warm through.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup has a creamy consistency.
- Combine Pasta: Add the cooked pasta shells to the soup and gently mix to combine. Heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately for a comforting, delicious meal.
Notes
- You can use vegetable broth to keep the soup vegetarian, or chicken broth for added flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk, though this may slightly change the creaminess.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup and leave the rest with broccoli florets.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat; omit if serving to children or those sensitive to spice.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute pasta shells with gluten-free pasta.
Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, pasta shell soup, creamy broccoli soup, easy broccoli soup, comfort food, vegetarian soup, cheesy soup
