Description
This creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smooth, velvety base of milk and butter. Perfect for a cozy meal, it combines fresh vegetables and rich flavors simmered on the stovetop to create a hearty and delicious soup that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped small)
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Liquids & Dairy
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
Dry Ingredients & Spices
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in the chopped broccoli florets, grated carrots, and pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, which should take approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
- Prepare Thickening Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the half-and-half (or whole milk) and all-purpose flour until smooth and free of lumps to ensure a creamy consistency.
- Thicken the Soup: Gradually stir the milk and flour mixture into the simmering soup. Continue to cook and stir regularly until the soup thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes, paying attention to avoid lumps.
- Add Cheese and Season: Lower the heat to low, then slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese in batches, stirring continuously until it melts completely into the soup, resulting in a smooth texture. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of ground nutmeg if using.
- Serve Warm: Once the cheese has fully melted and the soup is creamy and hot, remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished if desired.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup before adding cheese.
- To make this soup vegetarian, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- While sharp cheddar cheese provides the best flavor, you can blend in Monterey Jack or mild cheddar for a different taste profile.
