Broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Here’s a simple recipe to make this delicious soup from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2% recommended)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- Croutons or extra shredded cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Sautรฉ the Onions and Garlic:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sautรฉ for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent.
2. Make a Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautรฉed onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
3. Add Broth and Milk:
- Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring to combine with the roux.
- Add the milk and continue to stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Broccoli and Carrots:
- Stir in the chopped broccoli florets and shredded carrots.
- Let the soup simmer over medium-low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Blend the Soup (Optional):
- If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired texture. Alternatively, transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
6. Add Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted into the soup.
7. Season:
- Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
8. Serve:
- Ladle the hot broccoli cheddar soup into bowls.
- Optionally, garnish each bowl with croutons or extra shredded cheese.
9. Enjoy:
- Serve the soup hot and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!
This homemade broccoli cheddar soup is a crowd-pleaser and ideal for a hearty meal on a cold day. For a complete meal, serve with crusty bread or a side salad.