Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, rich, and flavorful comfort food that's easy to make in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a cozy meal, it combines tender broccoli florets and sweet carrots with sharp cheddar cheese, all simmered to perfection in a velvety base. Serve it with homemade croutons or crusty bread for a satisfying experience.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
Vegetables
- 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 1 large carrot, julienned or finely chopped
Cheese
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 heaping cups)
Optional Garnish
- Homemade croutons, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook while stirring for about 5 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for 1 more minute to release its aroma. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until the flour becomes golden, creating a roux to thicken the soup.
- Add Milk and Broth: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Then add the vegetable broth, continuing to stir gently to combine all ingredients smoothly.
- Add Vegetables and Mustard: Stir in the chopped broccoli florets, julienned carrot, and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and flavors meld.
- Incorporate Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese in batches, stirring after each addition until fully melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with homemade croutons or crusty bread for added texture.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened almond milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- To make the soup smoother, blend part or all of the soup before adding the cheese.
- Homemade croutons add a delightful crunch but can be omitted for a lighter meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American