Description
This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and flavorful recipe perfect for chilly days. Made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a velvety smooth base, it combines the hearty goodness of vegetables with rich dairy to create a warming and satisfying meal. The soup is easy to prepare on the stovetop, using simple ingredients to deliver a deliciously creamy texture with a hint of nutmeg for a subtle depth of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups (480ml) milk
Vegetables & Seasoning
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 2 heads), chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and grated
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Cheese & Cream
- 2 cups (200g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, then sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened onion and garlic. Stir constantly for 1 minute to cook the flour and eliminate any raw taste.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps and form a smooth base.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped broccoli, grated carrots, nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup directly in the pot, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, puree until smooth, and return it to the pot.
- Add Cheese and Cream: Stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely. If desired, add the heavy cream to enrich the soup and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese and chopped chives if you like. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian-friendly.
- The heavy cream is optional but adds extra richness to the soup.
- For a smoother texture, blend the entire soup instead of partially.
- Feel free to substitute sharp cheddar with mild cheddar or a cheese blend for milder flavor.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
