Velvety broccoli simmered with onions and carrots, blended with sharp cheddar for a rich, comforting bowl.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 large head broccoli (about 1 lb 2 oz), trimmed and cut into florets
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
→ Dairy
05 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 - 2 cups whole milk
07 - 1 cup heavy cream
08 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 8 ounces)
→ Pantry
09 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
10 - 4 cups vegetable broth
11 - 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
12 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
# How-To Steps:
01 - Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced carrots and sauté for 4–5 minutes until the onion is translucent and the carrots begin to soften.
02 - Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened vegetables and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to cook the raw flour taste and form a light roux.
04 - Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth to prevent lumps, then add the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking until the mixture is smooth.
05 - Stir in the broccoli florets and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender when pierced with a fork.
06 - Remove from heat and purée the soup using an immersion blender until mostly smooth, leaving some small broccoli pieces for texture, or work in batches in a countertop blender and return to the pot.
07 - Return the pot to low heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar a handful at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted and the soup is homogenous.
08 - Season with salt, black pepper and nutmeg if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Keep the soup on low heat and avoid boiling after the cheese is added to prevent separation.
09 - Ladle into bowls and serve hot, optionally garnished with extra shredded cheddar or croutons.
