Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Chop the Broccoli:
    • Cut the broccoli into small florets, and dice the stems into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
  2. Grate the Carrots:
    • Grate the carrots or finely chop them, depending on your texture preference.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat the Pot:
    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
    • Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the Carrots and Broccoli:
    • Stir in the carrots and broccoli florets. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

Step 3: Add the Broth

  1. Pour in the Broth:
    • Add the vegetable or chicken broth to the pot, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged.
  2. Simmer:
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. Prepare a Roux:
    • In a small saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth paste.
  2. Add Milk:
    • Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Stir in Cheese:
    • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.

Step 5: Blend the Soup

  1. Blend to Your Desired Consistency:
    • Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth, or leave some broccoli pieces intact for texture.
    • Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Be careful with hot liquids and ensure the lid is slightly ajar to release steam.
  2. Return to Pot:
    • If using a blender, return the soup to the pot once blended.

Step 6: Combine and Season

  1. Add the Cheese Sauce:
    • Slowly stir the cheese sauce into the soup, mixing until fully incorporated.
  2. Season:
    • Add salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Finish with Cream (Optional)

  1. Stir in Heavy Cream:
    • For extra richness, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and heat gently, being careful not to let the soup boil.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle into Bowls:
    • Serve the soup hot in individual bowls.
  2. Garnish:
    • Top with extra shredded cheese, croutons, or fresh parsley/chives for added flavor and presentation.

Tips for Success:

  1. Use Fresh Cheese: Grate cheese from a block for the smoothest melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
  2. Control Thickness: Add more milk or broth if the soup is too thick, or simmer longer to reduce it if it’s too thin.
  3. Keep the Heat Low: Avoid boiling after adding cheese and cream to prevent curdling.

Variations:

  • Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour for the roux.
  • Vegan Option: Replace dairy with plant-based milk, cream, and cheese alternatives.
  • Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, ham, or bacon for a heartier meal.

Why This Soup is a Classic

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a perfect balance of rich cheese and wholesome vegetables, offering comfort in every spoonful. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a standalone meal or paired with crusty bread, a side salad, or even baked potatoes for a more substantial feast.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe brings the warmth and satisfaction of a restaurant-style dish straight to your kitchen. Simple to prepare yet packed with flavor, it’s a timeless favorite for cozy nights and gatherings alike. Give it a try, and enjoy a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness!