Creamy Broccoli Cheddar (Printable)
Velvety blend of tender broccoli and sharp cheddar, perfect for warming up cold days.
# Ingredient List:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
02 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
03 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
04 - 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
→ Dairy
05 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 - 2 cups whole milk
07 - 1 cup heavy cream
08 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
→ Liquids
09 - 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
→ Thickeners & Seasonings
10 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
12 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, optional
14 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, optional
# Steps:
01 - Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and diced carrots, cooking until softened for about 5 minutes. Incorporate minced garlic and cook another minute.
02 - Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to eliminate raw flour flavor.
03 - Gradually whisk in vegetable broth, ensuring a smooth mixture without lumps. Add broccoli florets. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until tender.
04 - Use an immersion blender or work in batches with a countertop blender to puree the soup to the preferred texture, either fully smooth or slightly chunky.
05 - Stir in whole milk, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and smoked paprika. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
06 - Lower the heat and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and combined. Avoid boiling after cheese is added.
07 - Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve warm, garnished with additional cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This soup feels like a secret comfort you want to share with your best friend
- It quickly became a favorite because it tastes indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make
02 -
- Do not boil the soup once you add the cheese or it can separate and get grainy
- Using sharp cheddar is a game changer—mild cheese just won’t give you that punch of flavor
03 -
- Whisk the flour thoroughly into the melted butter and vegetables to avoid lumps before adding broth
- Low and slow heat when adding cheese prevents curdling and keeps your soup luxuriously smooth