Description
A warm, creamy, and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup combining tender fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese in a rich, velvety broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or hearty lunches, this recipe balances freshness and cheesy goodness, with simple ingredients and easy steps to create a satisfying classic soup.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (bright green, chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 1/2 cups milk or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons butter
Liquids and Broth
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
Thickening Agent
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour/cornstarch for gluten-free version)
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets, finely dice the onion, and mince the garlic. This ensures even cooking and releases aromatic flavors.
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant to create a flavorful base.
- Make the Roux: Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste and form a thickening agent, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Gradually whisk in chicken or vegetable broth to avoid clumps. Add broccoli florets, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until broccoli is tender but not mushy, about 10-15 minutes.
- Blend for Smoothness (Optional): Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup for a creamier texture, leaving some chunks, or blend a portion and stir it back in.
- Stir in Dairy and Cheese: Lower the heat and gradually add milk or half-and-half, stirring continuously. Slowly mix in freshly grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, taking care to prevent curdling.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as desired. Serve hot, garnished if preferred.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli and quality cheese for best flavor and texture.
- Grate your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents found in pre-shredded cheese.
- Do not overcook broccoli to maintain a tender yet slightly firm bite.
- Stir constantly when adding cheese to prevent clumping.
- Broccoli Cheddar Soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg