Description
A cozy, creamy broccoli cheddar soup made with tender broccoli florets, shredded carrots, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich, velvety broth. Quick, comforting, and perfect for chilly days or busy weeknights.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
1 large carrot, shredded
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in broth, then milk and cream, ensuring the mixture stays smooth.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and add chopped broccoli and shredded carrot.
- Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Reduce heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if desired.
- For a smoother texture, blend part or all of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or an extra sprinkle of cheese.
Notes
Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
For a low-fat version, substitute heavy cream with additional milk or half-and-half.
Add shredded chicken or white beans for extra protein.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or a cornstarch slurry.
To add heat, include red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat over low heat, adding broth or milk if the soup thickens.
Soup can be frozen, but stir well when reheating to restore texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
