Description
This creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheese Soup is a delicious blend of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smooth, velvety base made with butter, garlic, onions, and a roux. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a hearty and satisfying soup, it combines classic American flavors with simple ingredients to create a rich, cheesy meal that’s easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 large carrot, grated or finely chopped
Cheese and Seasoning
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the butter, onion, and garlic mixture. Whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the soup and remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Then, add the half-and-half or milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot to the pot. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
- Blend Soup (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot, or carefully transfer a portion to a standard blender and blend before returning it to the pot.
- Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time until fully melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Season & Serve: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and a pinch of ground nutmeg if using. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- You can add cooked bacon or diced potatoes for variation and more texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
