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Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe: Comfort Food Made Simple

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe delivers restaurant-quality creaminess and rich cheese flavor in under an hour. Packed with wholesome vegetables, this comforting classic is perfect for every season — whether served in a bread bowl or alongside your favorite crusty bread.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 566
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 7 tbsp unsalted butter divided
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup finely diced yellow onion
  • 1½ tsp minced fresh garlic
  • 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • ¾ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¾ tsp ground mustard
  • ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 bay leaf optional
  • 32 oz reduced-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 3 cups half-and-half or 2% milk for lighter version
  • 6 cups fresh broccoli florets chopped
  • 2 cups freshly shredded carrots
  • 12 oz freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
  • Hearty buttered bread or bread bowls for serving
  • Optional Variations: Substitute vegetable broth for vegetarian soup or use cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a vegan version.

Method
 

  1. Build Aromatic Base: Heat 1 tbsp butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Add garlic, paprika, mustard, cayenne, and pepper, cooking 1 minute until aromatic.
  2. Create the Roux: Add remaining butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth and slightly golden.
  3. Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Gradually add half-and-half while whisking constantly. Add bay leaf and simmer 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  4. Add Vegetables: Stir in broccoli and carrots. Simmer 10–15 minutes until broccoli is tender yet vibrant. For a smoother texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.
  5. Incorporate Cheese: Remove pot from heat. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese in handfuls, stirring until melted and smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and serve immediately with crusty bread or bread bowls for a cozy, satisfying meal.

Notes

Avoid overheating the cheese—add it off the heat for smooth texture. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with extra broth or milk to restore creaminess. Freeze before adding cheese for best long-term results.