
This creamy, comforting, and rich broccoli cheese soup will surely be a family favorite! With a flavorful base, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup is the epitome of warmth and deliciousness. The secret? Always shred your own cheese for the best melt and texture. Get ready for the ultimate homemade broccoli cheese soup!
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- ½ yellow onion, diced small
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups vegetable stock
- 2 cups half and half
- 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 ½ cups thinly sliced carrots
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon (Better than Bouillon recommended)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese (use the best cheddar you can find)
How to Make The Best Broccoli Cheese Soup:
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a medium-sized pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Roux: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot and let it melt. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over the butter and stir constantly for about 2 minutes to cook the flour. Be careful not to let the butter brown.
- Add the Liquids: Slowly whisk in the vegetable stock and half and half until there are no lumps remaining. Let the soup base simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Add the Veggies: Add the broccoli florets and sliced carrots to the pot. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly firm.
- Season the Soup: Stir in the chicken bouillon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve hot with a side of crusty bread, crackers, or as a stand-alone meal. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Soup:
- Shred Your Own Cheese:
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting properly, so always buy a block of cheese and shred it yourself. This will give your soup a smooth, creamy texture. - Use Fresh Broccoli:
For the best texture and flavor, always use fresh broccoli instead of frozen broccoli. Frozen broccoli tends to be mushy and watery, which can alter the soup’s consistency. - Choose a Good Quality Cheddar:
Sharp cheddar cheese will provide the most flavor. Opt for a high-quality cheddar for the best results.
What to Serve with Broccoli Cheese Soup:
This soup is rich and hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up all that creamy goodness.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches make the perfect companion to this soup.
- For a lighter option, pair it with a simple green salad.
- Looking for something tangy to balance the richness? Try serving it with Easy Sesame Chicken or One Pot Black Pepper Chicken for a flavorful contrast.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. - Freeze:
This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
Final Thoughts:
This is the best broccoli cheese soup you’ll ever make! The rich, creamy base combined with fresh veggies and perfectly melted cheddar creates a comforting dish that is sure to impress. Whether you’re having it as a light meal or as a starter, this soup will satisfy your taste buds and warm you up.
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