Hearty Homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup

As the days get chillier, nothing beats the warmth and comfort of a creamy, cheesy bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This classic dish is not only satisfying but also packs the nutritional punch of broccoli. In this recipe guide, we’ll walk through the steps to create this cozy soup in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a hearty dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
• 4 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped
• 1 large carrot, julienned or grated
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Bread for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat the vegetables. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps of flour. Add the half-and-half or whole milk, and continue to stir as the soup mixture heats up and becomes smooth and thickened.
4. Add the chopped broccoli and carrots to the pot. Allow the soup to simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and scorching.
5. Season the soup with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
6. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and the soup becomes creamy.
7. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency.
8. Serve hot, with a side of crusty bread if desired, and enjoy the rich and delightful flavors of your homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is guaranteed to be a hit for both weeknight family dinners and casual social gatherings. Its robust flavor and creamy texture will have everyone asking you to share this simple yet delicious recipe. Additionally, it can easily be made vegetarian by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth and is naturally gluten-free if you opt to thicken the soup with a gluten-free flour alternative. Bon appétit!