Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Blend (Print View)
Velvety blend of broccoli and sharp cheddar for a comforting, creamy meal.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
02 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
03 - 4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
04 - 1 medium carrot, grated
→ Dairy
05 - 4 cups whole milk
06 - 1 cup heavy cream
07 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ Pantry Staples
09 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
10 - 3 cups vegetable broth
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
12 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
→ Garnish
14 - Extra shredded cheddar cheese
15 - Crusty bread
# Method:
01 - Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
03 - Sprinkle flour into the pot and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes to form a smooth roux and eliminate raw flour taste.
04 - Gradually whisk in whole milk and vegetable broth until fully incorporated and smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
05 - Add broccoli florets and grated carrot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are completely tender.
06 - Use an immersion blender to puree to desired consistency, leaving slightly chunky or completely smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches using a countertop blender and return to pot.
07 - Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until cheese is fully melted and soup is creamy. Do not allow to boil.
08 - Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheddar cheese and crusty bread.
# Insider Tips:
01 -
- It comes together in under an hour but tastes like it simmered all day
- The texture is incredibly luxurious without needing fancy techniques
- Leftovers reheat beautifully for tomorrow's lunch
02 -
- Never let the soup boil after adding cheese or it will separate and become grainy
- Grate your own cheese instead of buying pre shredded for the smoothest melting
- The nutmeg is subtle but essential, do not skip it
03 -
- Cut your broccoli into similar sized pieces so everything cooks evenly
- Room temperature milk incorporates more smoothly than cold