Description
A comforting and creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. This classic American soup is easy to prepare on the stovetop and perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 large carrot, grated
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release the flavors.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the soup base.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot. Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and paprika for balanced flavor.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and flavors meld.
- Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the freshly shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth. Avoid boiling after adding cheese to prevent curdling.
- Serve: Serve the soup warm. For a smoother texture, optionally blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot before serving.
Notes
- For a smoother soup, blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting results.
- You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, but this recipe as written includes chicken broth.
