Save A creamy, comforting soup featuring tender ditalini pasta, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese, all cooked in one pot for a quick and satisfying meal.
This soup quickly became a favorite because it combines great flavors with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Broccoli florets: 4 cups (about 1 medium head), chopped small
- Carrot: 1 medium, peeled and diced
- Ditalini pasta: 1 cup (about 120 g)
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups (1 liter), low sodium
- Whole milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 2 cups (200 g), grated
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (more to taste)
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: ¼ teaspoon (optional)
- Ground nutmeg: Pinch (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat Add chopped onion and carrot sauté for 34 minutes until softened
- Step 2:
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute stirring frequently
- Step 3:
- Stir in broccoli florets and continue cooking for 2 minutes
- Step 4:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil
- Step 5:
- Add ditalini pasta reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 810 minutes stirring occasionally until pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender
- Step 6:
- Lower the heat to low Stir in milk and butter then gradually add grated cheddar cheese stirring constantly until cheese is melted and soup is creamy
- Step 7:
- Season with salt pepper smoked paprika and nutmeg to taste Simmer for 23 more minutes stirring occasionally
- Step 8:
- Adjust seasoning if needed Serve hot garnished with extra cheddar or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired
Save This recipe always brings the family together around the table on chilly evenings.
Required Tools
Large soup pot Chefs knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons Wooden spoon Grater for cheddar
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheddar cheese butter milk) and wheat (ditalini pasta) For gluten-free use gluten-free pasta Always check product labels for hidden allergens
Nutritional Information
Per serving Calories 370 Total Fat 19 g Carbohydrates 35 g Protein 16 g
Save This soup is perfect for quick weeknight dinners and is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I use other pasta instead of ditalini?
Yes, small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells work well as substitutes, maintaining similar texture and cooking time.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Replace the ditalini with a gluten-free small pasta variety and ensure the broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
- → How can I achieve a smoother texture?
You can partially blend the cooked soup before adding the cheese, giving it a creamier, velvety consistency.
- → Can I use different vegetables in this dish?
Yes, cauliflower can be used instead of or alongside broccoli for a slightly different flavor and texture.
- → How do I adjust the cheese level?
Add grated cheddar gradually while stirring until you reach your desired richness and creaminess.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with crusty bread or a fresh green salad to complement the creamy, cheesy flavors.