Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A cozy, velvety, and comforting soup packed with tender broccoli florets and rich cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
- •4 tablespoons unsalted butter (60g)
- •1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- •2 cloves garlic, minced
- •1/4 cup all-purpose flour (30g)
- •2 cups whole milk (480ml)
- •2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (480ml)
- •4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
- •1 medium carrot, peeled and shredded
- •2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (200g)
- •1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- •1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- •1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- 1
Melt the butter in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- 2
Add the diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- 3
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the onion mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- 5
Gradually pour in the vegetable broth and whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- 6
Add the chopped broccoli, shredded carrot, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- 7
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the broccoli and carrots are very tender.
- 8
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the freshly shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
- 9
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving hot.
💡 Chef tips
- Always grate your own cheese from a block rather than using pre-bagged shredded cheese, as pre-bagged cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent a smooth melt.
- For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree half of the soup before adding the cheese.
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat without letting it boil.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished soup should be rich, thick, and creamy with a vibrant green hue from the tender broccoli, offering a savory and cheesy aroma with a comforting, well-balanced flavor.