Dinner - Broccoli Cheese Soup¶

This Broccoli Cheese Soup is rich, creamy, and comforting — better than anything store-bought. Perfect for chilly nights or cozy dinners!

🌍 Cuisine¶

American

4 servings

Ingredient	Amount (Imperial)	Amount (Metric)
Unsalted butter	3 tablespoons	42 g
Yellow onion, chopped	1 cup	~150 g
Carrots, peeled and chopped	2 medium	~150 g
Garlic, minced	4 cloves	~12 g
Kosher salt	1 teaspoon (divided)	6 g
Ground black pepper	½ teaspoon	1 g
All-purpose flour	3 tablespoons	24 g
Low-sodium chicken broth	4 cups	960 ml
Half and half	2 cups	480 ml
Dry mustard powder	1 teaspoon	2 g
Paprika (optional)	½ teaspoon	1 g
Broccoli florets (bite-sized)	1 head (~4 cups chopped)	~300 g
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded	8 ounces	227 g

Sauté Aromatics
In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the chopped onion, carrots, ½ teaspoon of salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened (about 5 minutes).
Add minced garlic and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring frequently.
Make the Roux
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
Add Liquids
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, breaking up any lumps.
Stir in the half and half. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Once it thickens, reduce heat to low.
Simmer Broccoli
Stir in the broccoli, mustard powder, paprika, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
Add Cheese
Add shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring after each addition until melted and smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed. Serve immediately.

Cheese Tip: Add cheese in batches and stir well to prevent clumping. Avoid pre-shredded cheese for a smoother texture.
Do Not Overheat: Once cheese is added, avoid further cooking to prevent grainy texture.
Texture Option: For a smoother soup, blend part of it using an immersion blender.
Broccoli Prep: Cut broccoli into small florets so they cook evenly and become tender.