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Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup

A close-up of a white bowl filled with rich, orange Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup topped with bright green broccoli florets.

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Make a rich, velvety soup that tastes just like your favorite restaurant’s version using simple ingredients.

Ingredients

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  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut small
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Do not brown.
  3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  4. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring until it thickens slightly.
  5. Stir in the milk, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and dry mustard powder.
  6. Add the small broccoli florets. Simmer gently until the broccoli is tender, about 10 to 15 minutes.
  7. Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more. Stir constantly to prevent the cheese from clumping or becoming grainy.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream. Heat through for 2 minutes, but do not boil after adding the cheese and cream.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Notes

  • Shred your own sharp cheddar cheese; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy.
  • For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the cheese.
  • If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water (a slurry), added at the end of step 4.

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