Description
Experience the ultimate comfort with this creamy, restaurant-style broccoli cheddar soup that comes together in just 30 minutes. Featuring fresh, crisp broccoli and sharp, velvety melted cheddar, this hearty soup is the perfect cozy meal for chilly evenings. It is a simple, foolproof recipe that transforms basic pantry ingredients into a decadent, crowd-pleasing dish without any fuss. Enjoy it as a warm starter or a satisfying main course that is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup half-and-half
3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
1 large carrot, julienned or grated
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 slices turkey bacon (optional) crispy and crumbled for topping
Instructions
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 3-5 minutes until translucent.
Sprinkle flour over the onions and whisk constantly for 2 minutes to create a roux.
Slowly pour in the broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Add the half-and-half, garlic powder, and paprika.
Add the chopped broccoli and carrots, then simmer for 10-12 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar one handful at a time, whisking until smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.
Notes
Always shred your own cheddar from a block rather than using pre-shredded bags for a smoother melt. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat; avoid boiling to prevent the cheese sauce from separating.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 65mg