Description
Comforting “broccoli cheese soup” brings creamy warmth to winter tables with classic cheesy goodness. Rich Wisconsin cheddar and tender broccoli florets blend perfectly, promising hearty satisfaction in each spoonful you’ll savor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Vegetables:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 large carrot, grated
Dairy and Cheese:
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter
Soup Base and Seasonings:
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Garnish:
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Crumbled bacon
- Croutons
Instructions
- Initiate the flavor foundation by gently melting butter in a spacious pot over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer and become translucent.
- Introduce finely chopped onions to the butter, sautéing them until they transform into a soft, translucent medley, releasing their subtle sweetness.
- Incorporate minced garlic and swiftly stir, creating an aromatic base that will infuse the entire soup with rich, robust essence.
- Dust the vegetable mixture with a delicate layer of flour, continuously stirring to create a golden, nutty roux that will thicken the soup’s luxurious texture.
- Gradually stream chicken broth into the pot, whisking methodically to eliminate any potential flour clusters and create a smooth, velvety liquid.
- Pour in heavy cream, allowing the mixture to reach a gentle, bubbling simmer that promises rich, creamy potential.
- Introduce vibrant broccoli florets, sliced carrots, and a harmonious blend of seasonings – salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and a whisper of nutmeg.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup gently simmer, transforming the vegetables into tender morsels while melding the intricate flavor profile.
- Employ an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, creating a balanced texture with some intact vegetable pieces and a creamy overall consistency.
- Sprinkle in sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan cheeses, stirring until they melt seamlessly into the soup, creating a luxurious, golden embrace.
- Ladle the soup into waiting bowls, garnishing with optional crispy bacon bits, additional cheese, or crunchy croutons for a delightful finishing touch.
Notes
- Boost the flavor by using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
- Create a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same creamy consistency.
- Enhance nutritional value by adding roasted cauliflower or extra vegetables like diced celery for more depth and nutrients.
- Transform the soup into a lighter option by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing the cheese quantity while maintaining a rich, satisfying taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 495
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 930 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 23 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg