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Bacon Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets chopped small
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 oz cream cheese softened (for extra creaminess)
  • Extra bacon
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Green onions
  • Cooked chicken for protein

Method
 

  1. Cook chopped bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy.
  2. Remove the bacon and leave 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
  3. Add butter → stir in diced onion → cook until soft.
  4. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  5. Add chopped broccoli and pour in the chicken broth.
  6. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
  7. Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  8. Lower the heat — do not boil after adding dairy.
  9. Add softened cream cheese first, stirring until smooth.
  10. Then slowly add shredded cheddar one handful at a time, stirring until creamy.
  11. Stir in half the bacon and let the soup simmer 2–3 more minutes.
  12. Top each bowl with the remaining bacon.