Description
This rich and velvety Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect comfort food, loaded with fresh broccoli and carrots, and enhanced by a creamy, cheesy broth. It’s a cozy, hearty soup that’s easy to make and perfect for any chilly day.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup salted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half and half
- 12 oz fresh broccoli (roughly chopped, or 1 bag of florets)
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard (or substitute with 1/2 teaspoon regular mustard)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the salted butter and flour, and cook, whisking constantly for 2-3 minutes to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth and half and half, whisking to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the soup starts to thicken.
- Add the chopped broccoli and carrots to the pot, stirring to combine. Continue to simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, dry mustard, and black pepper.
- Remove the soup from the heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed.
- Serve hot with extra cheese on top if desired.
Notes
- You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup.
- For extra richness, add a splash more half and half or heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Cheesy Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American