Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chowder
Indulge in the comforting and rich flavors of this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chowder, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This crowd-pleaser serves six and can easily be doubled for gatherings. The fresh vegetables are blended into a velvety soup that's elevated by sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of nutmeg, providing an irresistible depth of flavor. Enjoy this delightful recipe that combines nutrition and taste, ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
2 tablespoons (melted)
onion
1 medium (chopped)
garlic cloves
2 (crushed)
butter
1/2 cup (melted)
carrots
2 cups (fresh, grated)
broccoli
1 lb (washed, cut)
flour
1/2 cup (all-purpose)
half-and-half
1 quart (none)
chicken stock
1 quart (or chicken bouillon)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon (ground)
sharp cheddar cheese
8 ounces (grated)
Instructions
1
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it's golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
2
Stir in the crushed garlic and cook for another 3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
3
In a separate saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir continuously for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is slightly browned.
4
Gradually whisk in the half-and-half, stirring constantly until smooth. Slowly add the chicken stock while continuing to whisk, ensuring there are no lumps.
5
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6
Add the chopped broccoli, grated carrots, and the sautéed onion mixture into the pot. Cook over low heat for an additional 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
7
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
8
Using an immersion blender or in batches in a countertop blender, puree the soup until smooth. Be careful with the hot liquid!
9
Return the puree to the pot and stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese. Heat on low, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
10
Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chowder?
It is a rich, comforting, and velvety soup made with fresh vegetables, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of nutmeg.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve six people.
Can I make this recipe for a large group?
Yes, the recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
What is the first step in the cooking process?
The first step is to melt 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté chopped onions for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe calls for 2 crushed garlic cloves.
How is the soup thickened?
The soup is thickened using a roux made from 1/2 cup of butter and 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour.
What liquids are used for the soup base?
The base consists of 1 quart of half-and-half and 1 quart of chicken stock.
How do I prevent lumps in the soup base?
Gradually whisk in the half-and-half and chicken stock while stirring constantly to ensure a smooth consistency.
How long should the base simmer?
The mixture should cook at a gentle simmer for 20 minutes before adding vegetables.
What vegetables are included in the chowder?
The recipe includes 1 lb of broccoli, 2 cups of grated carrots, and a medium onion.
How long do the vegetables need to cook?
Cook the vegetables over low heat for 20-25 minutes until they are tender.
What seasonings are recommended?
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg to taste.
How do I achieve a smooth texture for the soup?
Use an immersion blender or a countertop blender to puree the soup until smooth after the vegetables are cooked.
What safety precaution should I take when blending?
Be very careful when pureeing as the liquid is hot; blend in batches if using a countertop blender.
When should I add the cheddar cheese?
Stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese after the soup has been pureed and returned to the pot.
How much cheese is required?
The recipe uses 8 ounces of grated sharp cheddar cheese.
Can I use chicken bouillon instead of stock?
Yes, chicken bouillon can be used as a substitute for chicken stock.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
While tagged as vegetarian, it traditionally uses chicken stock, so you should swap for vegetable stock to make it truly vegetarian.
What is the best way to serve this chowder?
It is best served hot with crusty bread and garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs.
What type of flour is used?
The recipe specifies 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour.
How do I prepare the carrots?
The carrots should be fresh and grated before being added to the pot.
How do I prepare the broccoli?
The broccoli should be washed and cut into smaller pieces.
What is the role of nutmeg in this recipe?
Nutmeg provides an irresistible depth of flavor that elevates the creamy base.
How much butter is used in total?
A total of 2 tablespoons for sautéing plus 1/2 cup for the roux is required.
Can I use different types of cheese?
The recipe specifically recommends sharp cheddar for the best flavor profile.
How long does the entire cooking process take?
The process takes roughly 60-70 minutes including sautéing, simmering, and vegetable cooking time.
Is this a hearty soup?
Yes, it is described as a hearty and filling meal, especially when served with bread.
Should the cheese be melted over high heat?
No, heat the soup on low while stirring until the cheese is fully melted to prevent it from separating.
What kind of onion should I use?
One medium onion, chopped, is sufficient for this recipe.
Can I add garnish to the soup?
Yes, you can garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs for extra flavor and presentation.