Creamy Broccoli-Cheese Soup

  • 6

Ingredients

  • 4 cups unsalted chicken stock, divided
  • 1/2 cup uncooked instant brown rice
  • 1 cup 1% low-fat milk
  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/4 pounds broccoli florets, coarsely chopped
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 5 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided

Preparation

Step 1

1. Combine 2 cups stock and rice in a small saucepan over medium-high heat; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 25 minutes. Remove from heat; let stand 5 minutes. Place rice mixture and milk in a blender. Remove center piece of blender lid (to allow steam to escape); secure blender lid on blender. Place a clean towel over opening in blender lid (to avoid splatters). Blend until smooth.

2. Heat a large saucepan over medium heat. Add oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add onion; sauté 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds. Add broccoli and salt; cook 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add remaining 2 cups stock; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes or just until broccoli is tender. Add rice mixture; simmer 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Place 2 cups soup in blender; process until smooth. Return pureed soup to pan. Add pepper and 4 ounces cheese; stir until cheese melts. Divide soup evenly among 6 bowls; sprinkle evenly with remaining 1 oz cheese.