A creamy and comforting broccoli cheddar soup that tastes just like your favorite Panera bread bowl soup. Perfect for a cozy meal.
Author:Ethan Hayes
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Soup
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup chopped yellow onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 pound)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup half-and-half
Instructions
Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Add broccoli florets and broth to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
Carefully transfer soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth.
Return soup to the pot. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Pour in half-and-half and heat gently, do not boil.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For a thicker soup, use less broth or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) before adding the half-and-half.
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
Freshly grated cheddar cheese melts best and provides the best flavor.