Description
This comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines tender broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy base made from butter, flour, milk, and vegetable broth. Enhanced with aromatic onion, garlic, and a hint of Dijon mustard, it’s a rich and flavorful soup perfect for a cozy meal. Serve it warm with optional homemade croutons for added texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 1 large carrot, julienned or finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 heaping cups)
Optional
- Homemade croutons, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook while stirring for about 5 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
- Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook through and turn slightly golden, which helps thicken the soup.
- Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the vegetable broth, stirring well to combine everything smoothly.
- Add Vegetables and Mustard: Stir in the chopped broccoli florets, julienned carrot, and Dijon mustard. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the mustard is evenly distributed.
- Simmer Soup: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Melt Cheese and Finish: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring after each addition until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and optionally garnish with homemade croutons for added crunch. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a richer soup, or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- For a smoother texture, blend part or all of the soup before adding the cheese.
- Extra sharp cheddar will give a more pronounced cheese flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid curdling the dairy.
- Homemade croutons are optional but add a nice crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
