Creamy, cheesy, and cozy — perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner.
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Servings: 4–6
📝 Ingredients
-
4 tbsp unsalted butter
-
1 small onion, chopped
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
¼ cup all-purpose flour
-
2 cups half-and-half (or heavy cream for a richer soup)
-
2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
-
4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small (or frozen, see notes)
-
1 cup grated carrots
-
½ tsp salt
-
¼ tsp black pepper
-
Pinch nutmeg (optional, enhances flavor)
-
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Start the Base
-
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
-
Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
-
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2️⃣ Make the Roux
-
Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
-
Slowly whisk in half-and-half and broth until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
3️⃣ Add the Veggies
-
Stir in broccoli, carrots, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
-
Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
4️⃣ Make It Cheesy
-
Remove the pot from heat.
-
Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5️⃣ Adjust Texture (Optional)
-
For a chunkier soup, serve as-is.
-
For a creamier consistency, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup before serving.
💡 Notes & Tips
-
Frozen broccoli works fine — no need to thaw, just simmer until tender.
-
Extra richness: Swap half-and-half with heavy cream.
-
Toppings: Garnish with more cheddar, croutons, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and crunch.
If you’d like, I can also create a Panera-style bread bowl version of this recipe so you can serve it exactly like the restaurant. Would you like me to make that next?
- Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta - January 8, 2026
- Hearty Rustic Chicken & Vegetable Soup - January 8, 2026
- Tomato Basil Garlic Bread - January 8, 2026