This creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delicious, hearty dish perfect for chilly days. With fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich, velvety texture, it’s an ideal lunch or dinner option, especially when paired with crusty bread.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
3 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 large carrot, peeled and grated
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Create Roux: Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth, then add milk, whisking to prevent lumps.
Incorporate Vegetables: Add the broccoli florets and grated carrot to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Blend Soup (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup, or blend part of the soup in a regular blender and return it to the pot.
Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low, gradually stir in grated cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
Season: Stir in salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or chives. Serve warm with crusty bread.
For a vegetarian version, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
Add a spicy kick by sprinkling in cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Add extra veggies like cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrition.
Find it online: https://chocolatecoveredamy.com/broccoli-cheddar-soup-recipe/