Description
This velvety, rich, and comforting homemade soup perfectly replicates the beloved cafe classic. By using fresh broccoli florets, a buttery roux-based sauce, and freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, this recipe achieves a signature thick texture and deep, earthy flavor. It is a luxurious restaurant-quality meal that you can easily prepare at home in under forty minutes, making it the perfect choice for a cozy dinner paired with crusty bread.
Ingredients
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely diced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 cup half and half
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions
Melt the butter in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
Whisk in the flour and cook for two minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Add the half and half and heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
Add the chopped broccoli florets and simmer for fifteen minutes until tender.
Lower the heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
Stir in the optional nutmeg if desired, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve warm.
Notes
Always grate your own cheese from a block for the best melting consistency as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents. Substitute half and half with whole milk for a lighter result if preferred. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 65mg