Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup diced onions (yellow or white)
- 1 cup shredded carrots (cut into half-inch matchsticks)
- 2 ½ – 3 cups broccoli florets (chopped small)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup skim/fat free milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the diced onions, shredded carrots, and chopped broccoli florets. Cook and stir frequently to soften the vegetables, about 5 minutes, adjusting cooking time depending on the size of the vegetable pieces to ensure they are tender but not mushy.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy whipping cream. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour evenly to avoid lumps. Add the kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes for seasoning. Continue stirring the mixture constantly over medium heat to combine and slowly thicken the soup base, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes. Be patient and maintain stirring to prevent the soup from sticking to the pot.
- Incorporate Cheese and Finish: Once the soup has thickened to a creamy consistency, reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely into the soup, creating a smooth and rich texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting broccoli cheddar soup!
Notes
- To make the soup vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and vegan cheese alternatives.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- This soup thickens as it cools; reheat gently with a splash of milk if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
