Description
This Basic + Awesome Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Combining tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smooth roux-based soup, it delivers rich flavors with a velvety texture. Enhanced with fragrant garlic, onions, and subtle spices, this soup is a hearty and satisfying meal ideal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broccoli stems, chopped (optional)
- 2–3 cups broccoli florets, chopped into very small pieces
- 1 large carrot, thinly sliced
Dairy & Fat
- 5 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup half and half
- an 8-ounce block of good quality extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Pantry
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Sauté garlic and onion: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the minced onion, garlic, and chopped broccoli stems, if using. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Build your roux: Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter to the pot. Once melted, sprinkle the flour into the pot and cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens and forms a roux.
- Add dairy and broth: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and half and half, stirring constantly. The mixture will initially thicken but will thin out to form a creamy base. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, whisking occasionally to prevent skin formation.
- Add vegetables and spices: Stir in the broccoli florets, sliced carrot, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add cheese: Remove the pot from heat and allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes. Stir in most of the grated cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with the remaining cheddar cheese, and serve with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy this warm, comforting soup with joy!
Notes
- Broccoli stems are optional but add extra flavor and nutrition when included.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Adjust salt to taste depending on the saltiness of your broth and cheese.
- Use a sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor impact.
- For a smoother texture, you can blend part or all of the soup after cooking.
- The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Broccoli Cheese Soup, Creamy Broccoli Soup, Comfort Food, Easy Soup, Homemade Soup, Cheddar Cheese Soup
