Description
A creamy and comforting broccoli cheddar soup inspired by the classic café favorite, made with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich velvety base that is perfect for cozy lunches or easy dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, then stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the butter mixture and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the chopped broccoli and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
- For a smoother texture, carefully blend part of the soup and return it to the pot, then stir well before serving.
- Ladle into bowls and serve warm.
Notes
- Shred the cheese fresh for the smoothest melt.
- Keep the heat gentle after adding the cream to prevent separation.
- If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of vegetable broth when reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Panera Soup, broccoli cheddar soup, creamy soup, vegetarian soup, comfort food