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How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup from Scratch

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Ingredients
 

  • Butter: 1/4 cup 60g – for sautéing the vegetables.
  • Onion: 1 medium finely chopped – adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • Carrots: 2 medium shredded – adds color and a slight sweetness.
  • Garlic: 3 cloves minced – for aromatic depth.
  • All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup 30g – helps thicken the soup.
  • Chicken or vegetable broth: 4 cups 960ml – forms the base of the soup.
  • Heavy cream or whole milk: 2 cups 480ml – adds creaminess.
  • Broccoli: 4 cups roughly 300g, cut into bite-sized pieces – the star vegetable of the soup.
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: 2 cups about 225g, shredded – for rich, cheesy flavor.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste – for seasoning.
  • Nutmeg: A pinch – enhances the flavors.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables:

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and shredded carrots. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the carrots are tender, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Thicken the Soup:

  • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to coat them evenly. Cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.

Add Liquids:

  • Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the heavy cream or milk, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Cook the Broccoli:

  • Add the broccoli pieces to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

Blend the Soup (Optional):

  • For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can blend about half the soup in a regular blender and mix it back in for a chunkier texture.

Add Cheese and Seasonings:

  • Once the broccoli is tender, turn off the heat. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and the soup is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Adjust the seasonings to your taste.

Serve:

  • Serve the Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot, with extra cheese on top if desired. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a warm dinner roll.