Description
This creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheese Soup combines tender broccoli florets, shredded carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese in a rich, velvety broth. Made on the stovetop with a buttery roux and finished with a touch of nutmeg, it’s a perfect dish for a cozy meal any time of year.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
Vegetables
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 cup shredded carrots
Cheese and Seasoning
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release the aroma.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the pot and whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. This forms the roux which will thicken the soup.
- Add Broth and Milk: Slowly pour in the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Then add the half-and-half or whole milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Vegetables: Stir in the chopped broccoli florets and shredded carrots. Allow the soup to cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.
- Melt Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth.
- Season Soup: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add a pinch of ground nutmeg if using, and stir well.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, substitute half-and-half with heavy cream or reduce the broth slightly.
- For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender and leave the rest chunky for texture contrast.
- Using pre-shredded carrots can save preparation time.
