Nothing beats a warm and comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day. Cheesy Vegetable Soup is a delightful twist on a classic recipe that is sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and delicious. Packed with nutritious vegetables and a rich, creamy cheese base, this soup is perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe will become a favorite in your repertoire.
**Cheesy Vegetable Soup**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped carrots, celery, red bell pepper, zucchini, dried thyme, and dried oregano to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.
5. Add the broccoli, cauliflower, and corn to the pot. Continue simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Slowly pour the mixture into the soup, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
7. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
8. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until melted and incorporated into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the Cheesy Vegetable Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
This Cheesy Vegetable Soup is a delightful way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while indulging in a bowl of creamy goodness. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping cheddar for a different cheese variety. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that will warm your heart and soul on any day of the week. Enjoy the cozy comfort of homemade soup with this easy and delicious recipe!
