Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 cups half-and-half (or whole milk for a lighter option)
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Extra shredded cheddar and croutons (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the flour turns a light golden color and no raw flour remains.
- Add the Liquids:
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half (or milk), making sure to break up any lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Broccoli and Carrot:
- Add the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot to the pot. Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the Soup (Optional):
- If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until creamy. You can also leave some chunks for texture, or skip this step if you like a chunkier soup.
- Add the Cheese:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time, making sure it melts completely into the soup. Season with salt, pepper, ground mustard, and nutmeg (if using).
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar cheese and croutons if desired. Enjoy with a warm slice of bread or a side salad!
Tips:
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Make it Thicker: For a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of broth or add a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken or crispy bacon bits for extra heartiness.
Conclusion
This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delicious, comforting, and indulgent meal that will warm you up on a cold day. With tender broccoli and rich cheddar, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make! 🥦🧀🍲