Description
This sophisticated soup elevates the classic broccoli cheddar combination by roasting the florets first to concentrate their natural, nutty flavors. Finished with a velvety base of sharp cheddar, vegetable broth, and heavy cream, it offers a rich, restaurant-quality texture that is perfect for warming up during colder months. The caramelized edges of the roasted broccoli provide a deep, savory complexity that makes this soup a satisfying, hearty main course rather than just a simple side dish.
Ingredients
2 lbs broccoli florets
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 large yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large baking sheet.
Roast the broccoli for 20 minutes until the edges are golden brown and tender.
Sauté the diced onion in a large pot over medium heat until translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for one minute until fragrant.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the roasted broccoli to the pot.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until the desired consistency is reached.
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Season with additional salt and pepper if needed and serve warm.
Notes
For best results, grate the cheddar cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese to ensure it melts smoothly. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth to adjust the consistency to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Roasting and Stovetop Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
