Description
This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines tender broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, and a flavorful blend of vegetables in a rich, velvety base. Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner, this comforting homemade soup is easy to prepare and delicious when served with crunchy homemade croutons.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Vegetables & Flavor
- 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 1 large carrot, julienned or finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
Cheese & Garnish
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 heaping cups)
- Homemade croutons, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the 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 or until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flour to turn golden and cook off its raw taste.
- Incorporate Liquids: Slowly pour in the whole milk or almond milk while whisking continuously to create a smooth base without lumps.
- Add Broth and Vegetables: Stir in the vegetable broth, chopped broccoli florets, julienned carrot, and Dijon mustard. Combine well and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer to Tenderize: Continue to simmer the soup for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and cooked through.
- Finish with Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese in batches, stirring continuously until each addition melts completely and the soup reaches a creamy consistency.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, optionally topped with homemade croutons for added texture.
Notes
- You can substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free option, which will slightly alter the creaminess.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup after simmering before adding cheese.
- Adding Dijon mustard enhances the depth of flavor but can be omitted if not available.
- Homemade croutons add a delightful crunch but are optional for serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
