Description
This rich and creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines tender broccoli and carrots with sharp cheddar cheese in a flavorful, savory broth enhanced with smoked paprika and spices. Perfectly balanced with a smooth texture and comforting depth of flavor, this soup is ideal for a cozy lunch or easy dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 yellow onion
- 1 lb. broccoli, chopped into very small pieces
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
Dairy & Fats
- 4 Tbsp butter
- 2 cups whole milk
- 6 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Dry Ingredients & Spices
- 4 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly cracked
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Collect all your ingredients before starting to prepare the soup for a smooth workflow.
- Prep Vegetables: Dice the onion finely. Chop the broccoli into very small pieces and peel and slice the carrots into thin, uniform slices to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté Onion: In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, releasing its sweetness, about 5 minutes.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and continue to sauté for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. This cooks off the raw flour taste and creates a roux that will thicken the soup.
- Add Broth & Thicken: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to dissolve the flour mixture completely. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer, stirring often to prevent lumps. The mixture will thicken to a gravy-like consistency.
- Add Milk & Spices: Reduce heat to medium and whisk in the whole milk along with smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Let the mixture come back to a gentle simmer to blend flavors.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped broccoli and sliced carrots to the soup. Continue to simmer on medium heat, stirring regularly, for 15 minutes or until the carrots are tender and the broccoli is cooked through.
- Check Tenderness: Test a piece of carrot or broccoli for your desired tenderness. If needed, cook for a few more minutes until vegetables reach the perfect texture.
- Add Cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, adding it a handful at a time until fully melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Season & Serve: Taste the soup and add salt if necessary, depending on the saltiness of your broth. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting classic soup.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger, more flavorful soup.
- To make it vegetarian, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- For a thinner soup, add additional broth or milk to reach desired consistency.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- The smoked paprika and cayenne pepper add a subtle smoky heat, adjust according to your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
