Description
This creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines fresh vegetables with a rich and cheesy broth, perfect for a cozy meal. It’s flavorful, hearty, and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or even served in a bread bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (1 onion)
- 1–1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3/4 teaspoon paprika (smoked is preferred)
- 3/4 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 32 ounces low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 3 cups half-and-half (see note 1)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- 6 cups chopped broccoli (bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 12 ounces grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese (3–1/4 cups)
- Hearty buttered bread (optional, or serve in bread bowls)
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt 5 tablespoons of butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, ground mustard, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens.
- Add the bay leaf (if using), chopped broccoli, and shredded carrots. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Cook, stirring, until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, as needed.
- Serve the soup hot with buttered bread or in bread bowls.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or add more flour.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Vegetarian (if using vegetable broth)
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American