Recipe for Copycat Jason’s Deli Broccoli Cheese Soup

• Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Broccoli Cheese Soup
• published by: recipes faq
• Culinary Art: American Cuisine
• Dish Category: Soup
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving (depending on ingredients)

About Creamy Broccoli Soup

Jason’s Deli broccoli cheese soup has become a beloved staple in American cuisine, particularly within the fast-casual dining sector. Jason’s Deli, known for its wholesome and hearty dishes, introduced this comforting soup to provide a rich and creamy option for their health-conscious customers. The combination of fresh broccoli and rich cheese creates a satisfying flavor profile that balances indulgence with nutritional benefits.

It would be best to consider Homemade broccoli cheese soup for several reasons. First, it’s a delightful and comfortable food recipe to recreate a restaurant favorite in your kitchen. Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy lunch or a light dinner. Finally, it’s a budget-friendly option compared to dining out and allows you to control the quality of ingredients.

This soup’s popularity stems from its unique selling points: it’s a perfect blend of creamy cheese and tender broccoli, offering a comforting and satisfying meal option. The taste is characterized by the creamy texture of the cheese, complemented by the slight crunch of the broccoli. This makes it a versatile dish, suitable for both casual lunches and more formal dinners.

Ingredients and Their Quantities

Here is a list of ingredients needed for the Copycat Jason’s Deli broccoli cheese soup, based on serving four people:

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Fresh Broccoli Florets	4 cups	Main vegetable component
Shredded Cheddar Cheese	2 cups	Provides the rich, cheesy flavor
Unsalted Butter	4 tablespoons	Adds richness and helps cook the vegetables
All-Purpose Flour	1/4 cup	Thickens the soup
Half-and-Half	2 cups	Creates a creamy base
Chicken Broth	3 cups	Adds depth of flavor and thins the soup
Onion (chopped)	1 medium	Adds aromatic flavor
Carrots (sliced)	1 cup	Adds sweetness and texture
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves	Enhances flavor
Salt	To taste	Enhances overall flavor
Black Pepper	To taste	Adds a slight kick

The fresh broccoli florets are the primary ingredient, providing the main vegetable component. Shredded cheddar cheese gives the soup its signature rich and cheesy flavor. Unsalted butter and all-purpose flour combine to create a roux, which thickens the soup. The half-and-half adds creaminess, while the chicken broth balances the soup’s consistency and flavor. Chopped onion and sliced carrots add aromatic flavors and a bit of sweetness, respectively. Minced garlic enhances the overall taste, and salt and black pepper are used to season the soup perfectly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Consider these possible substitutes for the main ingredients to accommodate different dietary preferences or ingredient availability:

1. Broccoli: Substitute with cauliflower florets for a similar texture and taste profile.
2. Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use shredded mozzarella or a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
3. Half-and-Half: Replace with heavy cream for a richer soup, or use whole milk for a lighter option.
4. Chicken Broth: Substitute with vegetable broth or mushroom broth for a vegetarian version.
5. Unsalted Butter: Use olive oil or coconut oil as a dairy-free alternative.

These substitutions can help customize the Copycat Jason’s Deli broccoli cheese soup to suit various dietary needs and ingredient preferences.

Copycat Jason’s Deli Broccoli Recipe

quick recipe

For those short on time, here’s a quick and easy version of the Copycat Jason’s Deli broccoli cheese soup:

1. Melt Butter: In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add 1 chopped onion, 1 cup sliced carrots, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until tender.
3. Create Roux: Stir in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in 2 cups half-and-half and 3 cups chicken broth until smooth.
5. Add Broccoli: Add 4 cups fresh broccoli florets and simmer until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
6. Blend Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup to your desired consistency.
7. Add Cheese: Stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Season: Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

And there you have it – a delicious, quick version of the broccoli cheese soup Jason’s Deli is famous for!

Detailed Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   • Gather all ingredients: fresh broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, half-and-half, chicken broth, chopped onion, sliced carrots, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
   • Wash and chop the vegetables as needed.
2. Melt Butter:
   • In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
3. Sauté Vegetables:
   • Add 1 chopped onion and 1 cup sliced carrots to the melted butter.
   • Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
   • Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute.
4. Create Roux:
   • Sprinkle 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables.
   • Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, ensuring there are no lumps.
5. Add Liquids:
   • Gradually whisk in 2 cups of half-and-half until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
   • Slowly add 3 cups of chicken broth, continuing to whisk until well combined.
6. Simmer Broccoli:
   • Add 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets to the pot.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
7. Blend Soup:
   • Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until you reach your desired consistency. You can blend it completely for a smooth texture or leave some chunks for added texture.
8. Add Cheese:
   • Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
9. Season:
   • Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
10. Serve:
    • Ladle the hot broccoli cheese soup into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Copycat Jason’s Deli broccoli cheese soup!

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the dining experience with Jason’s Deli broccoli cheese soup, consider these serving suggestions:

Accompaniments:

1. Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a bread bowl to soak up the creamy soup.
2. Side Salad: Pair the soup with a fresh side salad, such as a classic Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette.
3. Sandwich: Complement the soup with a simple sandwich like a turkey and avocado sandwich or a grilled cheese for a more substantial meal.

Presentation:

1. Garnish: Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or finely chopped fresh parsley on top of the soup for an appealing presentation.
2. Serve in Bread Bowls: For a fun and hearty presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls.
3. Soup Toppings: Add a sprinkle of croutons or crispy bacon bits for extra texture and flavor.

Beverage Pairing:

1. Wine: Pair the soup with a light white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
2. Non-Alcoholic: Serve with iced tea, sparkling water, or a refreshing lemonade.

Practical Recommendations and Tips

Here are some practical recommendations and tips to help you perfect your Copycat Jason’s Deli broccoli cheese soup:

1. Cheese Selection: Use a good quality sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese like Gruyère or Swiss for a unique twist.
2. Broccoli Texture: For a soup with varied textures, reserve a handful of broccoli florets and add them towards the end of cooking. This will provide a slight crunch amidst the creamy base.
3. Adjust Consistency: If the soup becomes too thick upon cooling, simply add a bit more chicken broth or half-and-half when reheating.
4. Enhance Flavor: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. These additions can elevate the taste profile without overpowering the cheese and broccoli flavors.
5. Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
6. Freezing: While this soup can be frozen, the texture of the dairy may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, consider adding a bit more liquid (like chicken broth) when reheating to adjust the consistency.
7. Batch Cooking: Consider making a larger batch and freezing individual portions for quick and easy meals later.
8. Garnishing: Freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives can add a burst of freshness and color when sprinkled on top before serving.