Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Printable Version)

A comforting bowl featuring tender broccoli, carrots, and rich cheddar in a creamy base.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
02 - 1 cup carrots, julienned
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Dairy

05 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
06 - 2 cups whole milk
07 - 1 cup heavy cream
08 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Base & Liquid

09 - 4 cups vegetable broth
10 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

→ Seasonings

11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon paprika
14 - Pinch of ground nutmeg

# How to Make It:

01 - Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 4 minutes until soft and translucent.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir constantly for 2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
04 - Gradually whisk in vegetable broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
05 - Add broccoli florets and carrots. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
06 - Reduce heat to low. Stir in milk and heavy cream, heating gently without allowing the mixture to boil.
07 - Add grated cheddar cheese one handful at a time, stirring after each addition until completely melted and smooth.
08 - Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and nutmeg according to preference.
09 - For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some vegetable chunks if desired.
10 - Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It is much richer and more velvety than any store bought version you have ever tried.
  • The sharp cheddar creates a deep flavor profile that makes the vegetables taste like a treat.
02 -
  • Adding cheese to boiling liquid will cause it to separate and become unpleasantly grainy.
  • Cutting the broccoli into very small pieces ensures every spoonful has a bit of everything.
03 -
  • Wait until the very end to add your salt since the cheese and broth already bring quite a bit.
  • A splash of hot sauce or lemon juice at the end can brighten up the heavy dairy flavors.
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