# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 lb broccoli, cut into florets
02 - 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Dairy
05 - 4 tbsp unsalted butter
06 - 2 cups whole milk
07 - 2 cups vegetable broth
08 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
09 - ½ cup heavy cream
→ Pantry
10 - ¼ cup all-purpose flour
11 - ½ tsp ground black pepper
12 - ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
13 - ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 - Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened, approximately 3 minutes.
02 - Stir in grated carrot and broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to begin softening the vegetables.
03 - Sprinkle flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring constantly to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
04 - Gradually whisk in milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until broccoli is fully tender.
05 - Use an immersion blender to partially blend for chunky texture, or fully blend for smooth consistency according to preference.
06 - Stir in heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese. Mix continuously until cheese is completely melted and soup is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if desired.
07 - Ladle hot soup into bowls. Garnish with additional cheddar cheese or black pepper as desired.
