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When the temperature drops and chilly winds begin to swirl outside, nothing feels quite as soothing as a warm bowl of soup. Comfort food, in its essence, is about nurturing the body and soul, providing warmth and satisfaction that transcends mere nourishment. Among the many variations of comforting soups, the Loaded Broccoli Cheddar Soup stands out as a delightful combination of health and indulgence. This hearty dish not only warms your body but also delights your taste buds with its rich, creamy texture and bold flavors.

Loaded Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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Ingredients
  

4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

4 cups vegetable broth

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional, for topping)

½ cup sliced green onions (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

    Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux.

      Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

        Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.

          Remove the pot from heat, and use an immersion blender to purée the soup to your desired consistency (smooth or slightly chunky). If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer it to a traditional blender in batches.

            Return the pot to heat, then stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Continue warming over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy (do not boil).

              Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or mustard for extra flavor.

                Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon (if desired) and sliced green onions for a burst of freshness.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6