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BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Thomas Baker

Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Easy and Delicious Recipe

This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is an easy, all-in-one pot meal bursting with flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in, this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of spices to create a comforting and delicious dish. Enjoy a warm bowl of Creamy Broccoli Cheddar that’s simple to make and sure to satisfy.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 566
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 7 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (1 onion)
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 tablespoons flour
  • 32 ounces reduced-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 3 cups half-and-half
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)
  • 6 cups chopped broccoli to bite-size pieces
  • 2 cups shredded carrots
  • 12 ounces freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese (about 3-1/4 cups)
  • Hearty buttered bread (optional, or serve in bread bowls)

Method
 

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden (3–5 minutes).
  3. Add garlic, smoked paprika, ground mustard, cayenne pepper, and pepper to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon).
  4. Cook, stirring constantly, for 45 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the remaining 6 tablespoons butter and melt.
  6. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it thickens.
  7. Gradually whisk in chicken broth.
  8. Once combined, slowly add half-and-half, whisking constantly.
  9. Reduce heat to medium-low, add bay leaf (if using), and simmer for 15 minutes, whisking occasionally until thickened.
  10. Add chopped broccoli and shredded carrots to the soup.
  11. Let the soup cook on low for 10–15 minutes, or until broccoli is tender, stirring occasionally.
  12. Optionally blend some soup for smoother texture or leave chunky.
  13. Turn off heat and stir in shredded cheese gradually, melting it completely.
  14. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
  15. Serve immediately in bread bowls or with hearty buttered bread for dipping.

Notes

  • Note 1: Half-and-half is a blend of milk and cream, usually found near the milk section in grocery stores.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Storage: Keep leftover soup in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly on low to avoid separation. Add a splash of half-and-half or broth if thinning is needed.