Description
This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish made with tender broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smooth blend of milk and vegetable broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s easy to prepare in just 35 minutes and can be served with homemade croutons or crusty bread for added crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Liquid Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
Vegetables & Flavorings
- 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 1 large carrot, julienned or finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
Cheese & Garnishes
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 heaping cups)
- Homemade croutons (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until the onion softens.
- Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for another minute. Then sprinkle the flour over the mixture, whisking continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until the flour turns golden, forming a roux to thicken the soup.
- Add Milk: Slowly pour in the whole milk or almond milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps and create a smooth base.
- Add Broth and Vegetables: Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the chopped broccoli florets, julienned carrot, and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together to combine.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender and the flavors meld.
- Incorporate Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring after each addition to melt it fully into the soup, resulting in a creamy and cheesy consistency.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot with homemade croutons if desired for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- This broccoli cheddar soup recipe is easy to make in just 30 minutes, perfect for a quick comforting meal.
- Use whole milk for a creamier soup, or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- For a smoother texture, you can blend part or all of the soup before adding the cheese.
- Serve with homemade croutons or crusty bread for a delightful crunch.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or add more flour to the roux.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
