Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 head)
- 1 large carrot, chopped, shredded, or julienned
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for warmth)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop the broccoli into small pieces. Shred the carrot, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring continuously for 2 minutes until slightly golden. This forms the base and thickens the soup.
- Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Add the milk, continuing to stir, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Broccoli and Carrot: Stir in the broccoli florets and shredded carrot. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Add the grated cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
- Blend for Creaminess (Optional): Use an immersion blender for a smoother consistency or transfer part of the soup to a blender, then return to the pot.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra shredded cheddar or paprika, and serve hot with crusty bread.
Notes
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and carrots bring the best flavor.
- Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
- Adjust thickness: For a thicker soup, reduce broth or add extra flour during the roux step.
Slow Cooker Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the broccoli, carrot, onion, garlic, and broth to a slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until vegetables are soft.
- Add Dairy and Cheese: Stir in the milk, cream, and cheese until melted. Season and serve as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop or slow cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g