Jason's Deli Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of broccoli cheese soup to soothe the soul and satisfy your taste buds. Jason’s Deli is renowned for its delicious take on this classic dish that blends creamy cheese with tender broccoli to create the ultimate comfort food.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Whisk (essential for blending the roux!)
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Blender or immersion blender (optional, depending on your desired texture)
- Ladle for serving
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets small, bite-size pieces work best
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 2 medium carrots grated
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: Croutons or additional shredded cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by collecting all the ingredients to make the cooking process easier. Cut the broccoli into small florets for even cooking, finely dice the onion to build a flavorful base, and freshly shred the cheese for a smooth, creamy melt. Prepping everything in advance saves time and keeps things running smoothly.
Step 2: Make the Base Roux
- Start by heating butter in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour gradually to form a smooth roux. This step is important as it thickens the soup and gives a creamy consistency. Cook the roux for a few minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw taste of flour while ensuring it doesn’t darken. A well-cooked roux is the foundation of this delicious soup.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
- Slowly pour in the chicken stock while stirring to avoid lumps. Then add the milk and keep stirring until everything is mixed well with the roux. This makes the base of the soup and allows the flavors to blend as it cooks. Use medium heat and be careful not to burn the milk.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
- Add the chopped broccoli and diced onion to the soup base. Stir them gently and make sure that they are evenly distributed. Allow the vegetables to cook over medium heat until they are tender, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes. This step infuses the soup with the fresh, earthy flavor of the broccoli while softening the onion to blend seamlessly into the overall texture.
- Step 5: Melt the Cheese
- Turn the heat down to low before adding the grated cheese to the pot. Stir slowly and gently so the cheese melts evenly without clumping or separating. This is when the soup becomes creamy and delicious. Take your time to make it smooth, which is important for the perfect broccoli cheese soup.
Notes
This broccoli cheese soup is versatile and forgiving, making it easy to adjust to your preferences. Use fresh and flavorful cheese for the best taste, and be careful not to overcook the broccoli to maintain its texture and nutrients. Don’t forget to season gradually, tasting as you go.