Simple and Amazing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Soup in less than 10 minutes, who loves soup?! Creamy, cheesy and packed with good for you ingredients — this Basic + Awesome Broccoli Cheese Soup is a new favorite in our house! Best served on a cold day, this quick family friendly meal comes together quickly Believe me you going to crave for this once it is done and will wish that next time when making some group gathering, just keep little more of the ingredients in your kitchen turn around.

Why Make This Recipe

This soup is perfect for so many things! This is so soothing, filling and it's super full of good healthy stuff from the broccoli. And it comes together so fast, perfect for the hustle and bustle of weeknights or a nice weekend meal. Your family will devour them just like mine does!

Basic + Awesome Broccoli Cheese Soup

Ingredients:

• 5 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 small onion, minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup broccoli stalks, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup half and half
• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• about 2 to 3 cups of broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1 large carrot, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp salt (or more or less to taste)
• 1/2 t black pepper fresh grinding
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 8-ounce block of high quality extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Directions:

1. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Stir in onion, garlic and broccoli stems if using. Cook stirring until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Then in goes the 4 remaining tablespoons of butter to recreate those holes. Add the flour (sprinkle, don't pour it in) and cook until slightly thickened for 2-3 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and half & halt. It will look a bit glommy as first, but continue to whisk it. Slowly whisk in the broth then simmer for 10 minutes, stirring here and there.
4. Once the soup base is thickened well then add chopped broccoli, sliced carrot and spices. Cook for 10 minutes or so, until the broccoli turns bright green and is fork-tender.
5. Take the pressure cooker off from heat and let it settle a bit. Add most of the cheese and keep stirring until it melts in perfectly. Then serve in bowls with extra cheese and a handful of stubby pieces of bread for soaking. Enjoy those cozy moments!