Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender broccoli with rich, creamy cheddar cheese for a soul-warming meal that’s perfect for any season. This classic soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend lunch. With its smooth texture and savory flavor, this broccoli cheddar soup will satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling cozy and content. Follow this simple recipe to create a homemade version of a beloved restaurant favorite that your whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 cups half-and-half (or whole milk)
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Optional: Additional shredded cheese for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- If using fresh broccoli, cut into small florets.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir well to combine and cook for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Add the Broth and Cream:
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps.
- Add the half-and-half (or milk) and continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the broccoli florets and grated carrot to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the broccoli is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Blend the Soup:
- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer some or all of the soup to a blender and blend in batches.
- For a chunkier soup, simply use a potato masher to break up some of the broccoli while keeping some pieces whole.
- Add the Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Season the soup with salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg (if using) to taste.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheese if desired.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.
This broccoli cheddar soup is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s a perfect dish for a chilly day and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy!
_______________________________________________________for more recipes click here