Create a creamy and delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup on the stovetop in just one pot! It's both easy to make and bursting with flavor. (The secret to this soup lies in the spices!)
32ounceslow-sodium chicken stock (or broth)(use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version)
3cupsfat-free half-and-half
1bay leaf
6cupschopped broccoli(~4 large crowns)
2cupsmatchstick/shredded carrots
12ounces cheddar cheesehigh-quality extra-sharp (Don't use pre-shredded -- it doesn't melt well in this soup.)
Optional: crusty bread or bread bowls (we love serving this soup in sourdough bread bowls!)
Instructions
BUTTER & SEASONINGS: Heat 1 tablespoon butter and the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté, stirring occasionally until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, paprika, mustard, cayenne pepper, and pepper (I add 1 teaspoon, but add to preference) to the pot. Add the salt after the stock, to gauge how much more it needs. Cook for another 45 seconds to 1 minute stirring constantly until fragrant.
ROUX: Add in the remaining 6 tablespoons butter and melt. Once melted, add in the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 2-4 minutes, whisking constantly until the flour is thickened. Don't rush this, or your soup won't properly thicken.
SOUP BASE: Gradually add in the chicken stock, whisking constantly. Once all the stock has been added, gradually add in the half-and-half, again whisking constantly as you add. Reduce heat to medium-low, add in the bay leaf, and allow to simmer for 15 minutes or until thickened a bit. (Whisk every few minutes as you chop the broccoli!)
PREP BROCCOLI & CHEESE: Meanwhile, chop the broccoli and shred the cheese. Add the chopped broccoli florets and matchstick/shredded carrots to the soup (give carrots a quick chop in half if they are super long).
SIMMER SOUP: Allow soup to simmer over low heat for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until broccoli is crisp-tender (or tender to your preference), stirring occasionally. Season to taste with salt (I add about a teaspoon here). You can blend some of the soup or use an immersion blender here if desired. We like it chunky, but blend to preference if desired.
ADD CHEESE: Turn off heat. Add in the cheese a handful at a time, stirring until melted. Again, taste for seasoning. Serve immediately in bread bowls or regular bowls with a side of bread for dipping!
Video
Notes
Vegetarian version: Use vegetable stock in place of chicken stock for this recipe.