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Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

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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.

Ingredients

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)

Instructions

  • 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.

Notes

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.