Description
This rich and creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect comfort food, loaded with tender broccoli, shredded carrots, and extra-sharp cheddar cheese. The smoky paprika and ground mustard add depth to the flavor, while the creamy half-and-half and chicken broth create a velvety smooth base. Serve it with a slice of hearty buttered bread or in a bread bowl for a full, satisfying meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (about 1 onion)
- 1 ½ teaspoons minced garlic
- ¾ teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is preferred)
- ¾ teaspoon ground mustard
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 32 ounces low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 3 cups half-and-half (see note 1)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- 6 cups chopped broccoli (bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 12 ounces grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese (about 3 ¼ cups)
- Hearty buttered bread (optional, or serve in bread bowls)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Soup Base:
- In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic, paprika, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 more minute, until fragrant.
-
Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat the onion and garlic mixture.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
-
Add Liquids:
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Stir in the half-and-half and add the bay leaf (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, until it begins to thicken.
-
Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped broccoli and shredded carrots to the pot.
- Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
-
Add the Cheese:
- Remove the bay leaf (if used).
- Gradually stir in the grated cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup.
- Once the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy, season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Serve with hearty buttered bread or in bread bowls for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- Note 1: If you prefer a lighter version of the soup, you can use whole milk instead of half-and-half.
- For extra creaminess, you can blend a portion of the soup to create a smoother texture, or you can use an immersion blender.
- This soup can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It freezes well too!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar Soup, Cheddar Soup, Comfort Soup, Creamy Soup, Homemade Broccoli Soup, Easy Soup Recipe, Vegetable Soup