Save One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Ditalini Soup is the ultimate comfort dish for chilly evenings. This creamy, cheesy soup brings together tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar in a single pot, making it both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. Its rich flavors and velvety texture promise a cozy meal that you can whip up in under 40 minutes.
Save This soup delivers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, from the tender ditalini to the fresh crunch of broccoli. Its creamy base, laced with sharp cheddar cheese, warms you from the inside out. A pinch of smoked paprika and nutmeg adds a subtle but intriguing twist, elevating this humble soup into a standout meal.
Ingredients
- Vegetables
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 medium head), chopped small
1 medium carrot, peeled and diced - Pasta
1 cup (about 120 g) ditalini pasta (or other small pasta) - Liquids
4 cups (1 liter) low-sodium vegetable broth
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk - Dairy
2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
2 tablespoons unsalted butter - Seasonings
1 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and carrot; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- 2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
- 3. Stir in broccoli florets and continue cooking for 2 minutes.
- 4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- 5. Add ditalini pasta, reduce heat to a gentle simmer, and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender.
- 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.
- 7. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and nutmeg to taste.
- Simmer for 2–3 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 8. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an even smoother texture, partially blend the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cheese. This locks in creaminess without losing any flavor.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Try substituting cauliflower for broccoli or use a combination of both for varied taste and texture. For a richer soup, replace half the milk with heavy cream to enhance creaminess.
Serviervorschläge
Serve your Broccoli Cheddar Ditalini Soup with crusty bread to soak up every creamy spoonful or pair it with a fresh green salad for a light, balanced meal.
Save This comforting and straightforward soup is a staple for easy weeknight dinners or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. Its quick preparation means you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the delicious goodness in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, small pasta such as elbow macaroni or small shells can be substituted for ditalini without altering the cooking time significantly.
- → How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta alternatives and ensure your vegetable broth contains no gluten additives.
- → What is the best way to achieve a smoother texture?
Partially blend the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cheese to create a creamy consistency.
- → Can I substitute the broccoli with other vegetables?
Cauliflower or a mixture of cauliflower and broccoli work well for a variation in flavor and texture.
- → Is it possible to make the soup richer?
Swap half the milk with heavy cream for an extra creamy and indulgent texture.
- → How do I avoid cheese clumping in the soup?
Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar over low heat, allowing it to melt slowly and evenly into the warm liquid.