Chunky Broccoli and Cheddar Soup

Broccoli and Cheddar Soup is by far one of my favorite kinds of soup to eat! It's one of my comfort foods.  I already have this creamy and smooth broccoli cheddar soup but I was excited to make this chunkier version! It was a keeper for sure.  This recipe is adapted from The Hungry Hedgehog.


1 tbsp butter
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup flour
2 cups half & half
2 cups chicken broth
1/2lb fresh broccoli
1/2 cup carrot (finely chopped or grated)
2 cups grated cheddar cheese
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper

Melt 1tablespoon of butter in a large pot and saute onion until translucent.  Remove from pot and set to the side.  Melt 1/4 cup of butter then whisk in the flour and cook until it starts to bubble then turn the heat down and cook for 2 to 3 more minutes. Whisk in the half and half and then the chicken broth. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes. Add the broccoli, carrots and onion to the pot and cook over low heat for 30 minutes.  Stir in the salt and pepper.  Using a potato masher, mash the broccoli to break up the big chunks.  Add in the cheese 1/2 cup at a time and stir until melted. Continue until all of the cheese is melted.