If you’re like me and love soups, you may have wondered what to serve along with your favorite soup. In this blog post, we’ll explore the perfect main dishes and sides that pair beautifully with broccoli and cheese soup. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a light lunch, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also share an irresistible broccoli cheddar soup recipe and suggest some meat and sandwich options that perfectly complement this delicious soup. So, let’s dive in and discover the best main dish to pair with broccoli and cheese soup.
What to Eat with Broccoli and Cheese Soup?
Broccoli and cheese soup is a classic comfort food that is hearty, creamy, and delicious. However, the question arises, what should you eat as the main dish when you have this soup? This predicament has baffled many, but fret not; we have compiled a list of fantastic main dishes that go perfectly with broccoli and cheese soup.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is the perfect companion to broccoli and cheese soup. It compliments the soup’s creamy texture and adds a dose of flavor. So, grab a loaf of bread, spread some garlic butter on it, and enjoy it with your soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A grilled cheese sandwich may seem too basic, but it’s a simple and delicious way to elevate your soup experience. The crunch of the sandwich pairs well with the soup’s creaminess, and the cheese in the sandwich compliments the soup’s cheese flavor.
Baked Chicken
If you’re looking for something more substantial, baked chicken is an excellent option. The protein-rich chicken meshes well with broccoli and cheese soup, making for a healthy and balanced meal. Add some baked sweet potato and roasted greens for a complete and healthy feast.
Caesar Salad
If you’re feeling fancy and watching your calorie intake, a caesar salad is a perfect partner for broccoli and cheese soup. It’s light and refreshing and balances out the richness of the soup. Don’t forget to add croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese for an extra punch.
Cheesy Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a fun way to shake up your soup experience. Add some shredded cheese, bell peppers, and onions to your tortilla, fold it up, and grill it until it’s crispy and golden brown. The melted cheese inside oozes out with each bite and complements your soup perfectly.
In conclusion, broccoli and cheese soup is undoubtedly delicious on its own, but these main dishes will make it a meal worth savoring. From classic grilled cheese to light Caesar salads, there’s a perfect companion for everyone’s taste buds. So, the next time you make broccoli and cheese soup, try one of these pairings and take your soup to the next level.
What to Pair with Soup?
Soup is a great comfort food and can be especially cozy on a chilly evening. But what should you serve with a steaming bowl of broccoli and cheese soup? Here are a few delicious options that will complement your dish while providing some variety to your meal.
Baked Bread
One classic pairing for any soup is a hearty bread, especially when it’s fresh from the oven. This can be anything from a French baguette to rustic sourdough. Cut into thick slices and serve with a dollop of butter for a perfect bite every time. Try baking a loaf while your soup is simmering for a cozy and aromatic evening at home.
Salad
Are you feeling like you want something a bit fresher and lighter to pair with your soup? A crisp and colorful salad is a great option. With plenty of greens, vegetables, and a tangy dressing, it will provide a sharp contrast to your rich and creamy soup. Consider adding some protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to keep you satisfied.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
For a classic and comforting combination, it’s tough to beat a grilled cheese sandwich with a bowl of soup. Use your favorite type of bread and cheese to create a perfect crispy and cheesy sandwich. You can even add some ham or bacon for additional flavor and texture.
Roasted Vegetables
If you want to add some extra nutrition to your meal while boosting the flavors that work well with broccoli soup, roasted vegetables are a perfect option. Carrots, sweet potatoes, zucchini, and squash are all great vegetables that can be cooked until they’re perfectly caramelized. Season with garlic, salt, and pepper for a truly addictive side dish.
Sweet Cornbread
If you’re looking for something sweet to add to your meal, you can’t go wrong with sweet cornbread. The sweetness of the cornmeal pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the soup. Try baking a batch of skillet cornbread to enjoy with your meal. The crispy edges and creamy middle will take your broccoli soup to the next level.
In conclusion, there are many options to pair with broccoli and cheese soup, depending on your personal tastes and preferences. From homemade bread and roasted vegetables to salad and sandwiches, the options are endless. The important thing is to find the combination that works for you, makes you feel cozy, and satisfies your cravings.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
If you’re a huge fan of broccoli and cheese soup, then you must try making it from scratch. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the homemade version tastes so much better than the canned one. Here’s a simple recipe for you to follow:
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- ΒΌ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped into small pieces
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and broth until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Add the broccoli and simmer until it’s tender, about 15 minutes.
- Puree the soup using an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Return the soup to the pot and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.
Tips and Variations
- For a healthier version, use low-fat milk and cheese.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower to the soup.
- If you prefer a chunky soup, skip the pureeing step.
- For a creamier soup, add a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream before serving.
- Serve with warm crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Making your own broccoli and cheese soup is a great way to impress your friends and family, and it’s perfect for cold days or whenever you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting. This recipe is easy to customize, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. With this recipe, you’ll never want to go back to canned soup again. Enjoy!
What Meat is Good with Broccoli and Cheese?
When it comes to pairing meat with broccoli and cheese soup, there are a few options that work particularly well. Here are a few of our top picks:
1. Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a classic pairing with broccoli and cheese soup. The tender, juicy chicken provides a nice contrast to the creamy, savory soup. Plus, it’s a healthier option, which makes it a great choice if you’re trying to watch your waistline.
2. Smoked Sausage
If you’re looking for something a little more hearty, smoked sausage is a great option. The smoky flavor pairs well with the rich cheese, and the sausage adds a nice textural contrast to the soft broccoli.
3. Crispy Bacon
Let’s be honest: everything is better with bacon. Crispy, salty bacon is a great way to add some texture and flavor to your broccoli and cheese soup. Just be sure to cook it until it’s nice and crispy, so that it doesn’t get soggy in the soup.
4. Shredded Beef
If you’re in the mood for beef, shredded beef is a great way to go. The tender beef pairs well with the creamy soup, and the shredded texture makes for a nice contrast with the soft broccoli.
5. Ham
Last but not least, ham is another great option for pairing with broccoli and cheese soup. The salty ham adds flavor and texture to the soup, and it pairs particularly well with a sprinkle of black pepper.
No matter what meat you choose, be sure to cook it separately and add it to the soup at the end to ensure the best texture and flavor. Enjoy!
What Sandwich Goes with Broccoli Cheese Soup
If you’re in the mood for a warm bowl of broccoli cheese soup, adding a sandwich to your meal can only make it better. The right sandwich can complement and enhance the flavors of the soup, making the meal more delicious and satisfying. In this subsection, we’ll give you some ideas for sandwiches that pair well with broccoli cheese soup.
Grilled Cheese
Nothing beats a classic grilled cheese sandwich paired with a creamy bowl of broccoli cheese soup. The combination of melted cheese and crunchy bread is a perfect match for the rich and velvety soup. You can add some bacon, ham, or tomato to the grilled cheese to make it more flavorful.
Turkey and Avocado
For a healthier option, try a turkey and avocado sandwich with your soup. This sandwich is packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a nutritious choice. The avocado adds a creamy texture to the sandwich, which complements the soup well. You can also add some lettuce, tomato, or onion for extra crunch.
Roast Beef and Horseradish
If you’re craving something more hearty, a roast beef and horseradish sandwich might do the trick. The spicy horseradish sauce pairs well with the creamy soup, and the roast beef adds a rich and savory flavor. You can add some cheese or caramelized onion to the sandwich to make it even more delicious.
BLT
A classic BLT sandwich is another great option to pair with broccoli cheese soup. The crispy bacon, juicy tomato, and fresh lettuce add a refreshing flavor to the meal, while the toasted bread provides a satisfying crunch. You can use any type of bread for the sandwich, but sourdough or ciabatta work particularly well.
Reuben
Finally, if you want something indulgent and flavorful, a Reuben sandwich is a great choice. The combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing is a mouthwatering treat that pairs perfectly with the rich and cheesy soup. You can also add some Swiss cheese or pickles to the sandwich for extra flavor.
In conclusion, adding a sandwich to your broccoli cheese soup meal can take it to the next level. From classic grilled cheese to hearty Reuben, there are plenty of options to choose from. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite sandwich-soup pairing.
