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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A Cozy Comfort Food Classic
Arkely

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A Cozy Comfort Food Classic

Warm up on a chilly evening or enjoy this comforting soup as a light lunch. Creamy broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect blend of savory and creamy, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you're hosting guests or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers rich flavors with minimal fuss.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion chopped
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 garlic cloves chopped
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
  • 1 large carrot julienned or finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese about 2 heaping cups
  • Homemade croutons for serving, optional

Method
 

Main Method
  1. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, salt, and several grinds of pepper and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes, or until softened. Work through this step deliberately rather than rushing it, because this is where the texture and balance of the recipe start to take shape. Keep the listed quantities and order of operations unchanged, and have the next ingredients ready before you move on.
  2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, then sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the flour turns golden. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously. Work through this step deliberately rather than rushing it, because this is where the texture and balance of the recipe start to take shape. Keep the listed quantities and order of operations unchanged, and have the next ingredients ready before you move on.
  3. Add the broth, broccoli, carrot, and mustard and stir to combine. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. Work through this step deliberately rather than rushing it, because this is where the texture and balance of the recipe start to take shape. Keep the listed quantities and order of operations unchanged, and have the next ingredients ready before you move on.
  4. Gradually add the cheese, stirring after each addition, until all the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Work through this step deliberately rather than rushing it, because this is where the texture and balance of the recipe start to take shape. Keep the listed quantities and order of operations unchanged, and have the next ingredients ready before you move on.
  5. Season to taste and serve with croutons, if desired. Work through this step deliberately rather than rushing it, because this is where the texture and balance of the recipe start to take shape. Keep the listed quantities and order of operations unchanged, and have the next ingredients ready before you move on. Pay attention to the sensory cues in the food: aroma, color, softness, thickness, and how easily the ingredients move when stirred or handled.
  6. These signs are usually more reliable than timing alone. The biggest mistake is moving ahead before this step looks complete.