Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, cozy, and healthier take on the classic comfort food. Made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a handful of simple ingredients, it’s a perfect warming meal for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, more to taste
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
- 1 large head broccoli, chopped into small florets (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, more for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and salt and cook for 5–8 minutes, or until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the broth and milk. Add the broccoli, carrot, mustard, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Transfer half the soup to a blender and puree until smooth, or use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some texture.
- Return to the pot (if needed), stir in the cheddar cheese, and cook until melted. Season to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with extra cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a smoother soup, blend more; for a chunkier texture, blend less.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and flavor.
- This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Make it vegan by using plant milk and vegan cheese, and skipping the flour or using gluten-free flour if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
