Description
This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is packed with sharp cheddar cheese, tender broccoli, and a hint of spice for warmth. Perfect for chilly days, serve it with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
- Base Ingredients:
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (about 1 onion)
- 1–1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3/4 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika recommended)
- 3/4 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Thickening and Liquid Base:
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 32 ounces low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups)
- 3 cups half-and-half (see note)
- Vegetables:
- 6 cups broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- Cheese:
- 12 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 3–1/4 cups)
- Optional:
- 1 bay leaf
- Hearty buttered bread or bread bowls for serving
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Onions and Spices:
In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden (about 3–5 minutes). Add the minced garlic, paprika, mustard, cayenne, and a dash of pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, for 45 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
2️⃣ Make the Roux:
Add the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter to the pot. Once melted, whisk in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it thickens and forms a paste.
3️⃣ Add the Broth and Half-and-Half:
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth until smooth and combined. Slowly add the half-and-half while continuing to whisk. Reduce heat to medium-low, add the bay leaf (if using), and simmer for 15 minutes, whisking occasionally until the soup has thickened.
4️⃣ Add Broccoli and Carrots:
While the soup simmers, chop the broccoli and shred the cheese. Add the broccoli and shredded carrots to the pot, stirring to combine.
5️⃣ Cook Until Tender:
Let the soup cook on low for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender to your liking, stirring occasionally. For a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender, or leave it chunky for a heartier feel.
6️⃣ Add the Cheese:
Turn off the heat and gradually stir in the grated cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until melted. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt (start with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon as needed).
7️⃣ Serve:
Serve immediately in bread bowls or with hearty buttered bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup!
Notes
- Half-and-Half: If you don’t have half-and-half, you can substitute with a mix of equal parts whole milk and heavy cream.
- Blending Option: Blending part of the soup will create a smoother, thicker texture, while leaving it unblended will result in a more rustic, chunky soup.