Description
This classic Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe offers a rich, creamy, and cheesy blend of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smooth roux base. Perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner, this soup combines tender vegetables with a velvety texture and a satisfying cheesy flavor, easily made from scratch with everyday ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes to develop a roux which will thicken the soup.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the whole milk or half-and-half, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped fresh broccoli florets, shredded carrots, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika to the pot. Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli and carrots are tender.
- Incorporate Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup achieves a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Serve the warm soup as is or with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for added comfort and presentation.
Notes
- For a thicker soup texture, mash some of the cooked broccoli with a potato masher or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup until smooth.
- Using freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese ensures the cheese melts smoothly and enhances the soup’s flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
