Description
A creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich blend of spices. Perfect as a warming meal or starter, this soup combines a velvety texture with wholesome ingredients for a satisfying experience.
Ingredients
Units
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Main Ingredients
- 1 stick salted butter
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 6-7 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups carrots, shredded
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups heavy cream (can use half and half or whole milk, but the soup won't be as thick)
- 5 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
- 3 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon Lawry's seasoning salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 pinch nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat until fully melted and hot.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and season with Lawry’s seasoning salt, paprika, black pepper, and nutmeg. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the carrots: Stir in the shredded carrots to the pot and mix well.
- Create the roux: Sprinkle the all purpose flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flour to cook down and combine fully.
- Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream (or half and half if preferred), stirring constantly to integrate all ingredients smoothly.
- Simmer with broccoli: Bring the soup mixture to a gentle boil, then add the chopped broccoli. Stir to combine, cover with a lid, and reduce heat to let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally as the soup thickens and the broccoli softens without becoming mushy.
- Finish with cheese: After 15 minutes, reduce heat to low. Add the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese and stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste if needed.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half and half or whole milk but expect a thinner consistency.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Make sure not to overcook the broccoli to maintain a slight texture without being mushy.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Simmering time may vary slightly depending on your stove; keep an eye to avoid boiling over.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
