Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Printable Recipe)

Rich and creamy broccoli cheddar with tender veggies and sharp cheese, perfect for cozy comfort in just 30 minutes.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
03 - 3 garlic cloves, chopped
04 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

→ Liquids

05 - 2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk
06 - 2 cups vegetable broth

→ Vegetables

07 - 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
08 - 1 large carrot, julienned or finely chopped

→ Flavor Enhancers

09 - 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
10 - 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (about 2 heaping cups)
11 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
12 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, salt, and several grinds of pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes until onion softens and becomes translucent.
02 - Stir in chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until flour turns golden brown, creating a roux.
03 - Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. The mixture should thicken smoothly as you whisk.
04 - Add vegetable broth, broccoli florets, julienned carrot, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
05 - Bring mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until broccoli is fork-tender and carrots are cooked through.
06 - Reduce heat to low. Gradually add freshly grated cheddar cheese in small handfuls, stirring thoroughly after each addition until completely melted and soup is creamy. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Grate cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese for the smoothest, creamiest texture
02 - Whisk continuously when adding flour and milk to prevent lumps and ensure smooth consistency
03 - Add cheese over very low heat to prevent separation and achieve proper incorporation
04 - Reheat leftovers on stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain creamy texture