Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Weeknight Style)

Ingredients

• 2 cups Broccoli florets
• 2 cups Chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp All-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Milk (or half-and-half)
• 1/4 tsp Salt(optional)
• 1/8 tsp Black pepper(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (10 minutes): Chop the onion and mince the garlic; shred the cheddar; cut broccoli into small florets.

2. 2

   In a small pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3 minutes until softened, then stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.

3. 3

   Sprinkle in the flour and cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in the broth and milk, bringing to a gentle simmer.

4. 4

   Add broccoli and simmer 12–15 minutes, until very tender. Blend slightly (leave some texture) using an immersion blender or carefully blend in batches.

5. 5

   Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar a handful at a time until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve.