Broccoli Cheddar Soup - Creamy and Comforting Recipe
Creamy, comforting, and loaded with nutritious broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect dish for those chilly days when you need something warm and hearty. The combination of fresh broccoli, rich cheddar, and a hint of garlic makes this soup both flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just looking to treat yourself to a delicious homemade meal, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it ideal for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 medium carrot, grated (optional, for extra color and flavor)
Directions
Sauté the Aromatics. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the Roux. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste, forming a light roux.
Add the Broth and Broccoli. Slowly pour in the broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Add the broccoli florets and grated carrot (if using), and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
Blend the Soup. Use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup until smooth, or blend in batches using a stand blender. For a chunkier texture, you can blend only half the soup.
Finish with Cheese and Cream. Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the half-and-half (or milk) and shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
Serve. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad.
Recipe tips
For the best flavor, use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese. Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it contains anti-caking agents that may prevent the cheese from melting smoothly. If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth by 1 cup or let the soup simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes before blending. Garnish with homemade croutons or crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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