Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Ingredients

• 1 lb bacon
• 2 large broccoli heads, cut into pieces
• 8 oz shredded carrots (matchstick carrots)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 quart heavy cream
• ½ cup flour
• ¼ cup onion, diced
• ¼ cup garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded (mix of white cheddar, sharp and mild recommended)
• Salt, pepper, and adobo to taste

Instructions

1. Cook bacon — Cook bacon in a large pot until crispy, then remove and set aside for serving.
2. Sauté aromatics — Sauté onion and garlic in the remaining bacon fat until softened.
3. Make roux — Add flour and butter, mixing until you form a thick, smooth roux. If clumpy, thin with chicken broth one tablespoon at a time.
4. Add liquids — Pour in milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Simmer until sauce thickens.
5. Add vegetables and cheese — Toss in broccoli and carrots, stir in spices, and add shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Finish — Simmer until broccoli is soft and cheese is fully melted.
7. Serve — Top with crispy bacon pieces and additional cheese.

Notes

• Shred your own cheese — Hand-shredded cheese melts better and has better flavor; pre-shredded contains preservatives.
• Roux is essential — A proper roux creates a creamy texture without lumps.
• Cheese blend — Use a mix of white cheddar, sharp, and mild for complex flavor.
• Make-ahead friendly — Can be made ahead and reheated. Pairs well with crusty bread.

Tags: #recipe #soup #comfortfood #broccoli #cheddar #bacon #american