Description
A warm, creamy, and cheesy soup that’s perfect for cozy evenings, family dinners, or casual gatherings. This comforting recipe combines tender broccoli, sweet carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese in a smooth, velvety base that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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2 cups half-and-half
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4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
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2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
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2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
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Crusty bread or croutons, for serving
Instructions
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Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
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Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth, then add the half-and-half. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.
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Add the broccoli florets and diced carrots. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 12–15 minutes until vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally.
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For a smoother texture, blend part or all of the soup with an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender.
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Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
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Season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or croutons. Garnish with extra cheddar or broccoli florets if desired.
Notes
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Use fresh or frozen broccoli depending on availability.
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For extra creaminess, blend partially or fully before adding the cheese.
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Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
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Add extra broth when reheating if the soup has thickened.
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Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but feel free to mix with other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes