Description
This rich, creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup is loaded with tender broccoli florets, shredded carrots, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan for a comforting, velvety bowl of goodness. Served in warm crusty bread bowls, this cozy dish tastes just like your favorite copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup—only fresher, cheesier, and even more satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 3 cups half and half (or equal parts milk and heavy cream)
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
- Bread bowls for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.
- Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 2–3 minutes to form a thick paste.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in the half and half.
- Add chopped broccoli and shredded carrots. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to blend half the soup (or blend half in a regular blender). Leave some chunks for texture.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan a handful at a time until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Ladle into bread bowls or regular bowls. Garnish with extra cheese or Parmesan.
Notes
- Serve immediately for best flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg