My grandma used to make this all the time…

Sauté the Aromatics (3-4 minutes)

1. Melt the Butter: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Butter provides a rich base that enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
2. Add Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step helps develop a deep, savory flavor that forms the foundation of the soup.

Create the Roux (1-2 minutes)

1. Sprinkle Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour, forming a roux. This mixture will thicken the soup, giving it a rich and velvety texture.

Add Liquids (2 minutes)

1. Incorporate Stock: Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, stirring continuously to incorporate the roux into the liquid without lumps. Bringing the mixture to a simmer helps meld the flavors together.

Add Vegetables (15-20 minutes)

1. Stir in Vegetables: Add the chopped broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, and shredded carrot to the pot. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and cooked through. The combination of these vegetables provides a wholesome base for the soup and adds a variety of textures and flavors.

Blend and Thicken (2 minutes)

1. Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, or working in batches with a regular blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Blending the soup creates a uniform texture and ensures that all the flavors are well integrated.

Add Half and Half (2 minutes)

1. Incorporate Half and Half: Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the half and half, allowing it to warm through without boiling. This step adds a creamy richness to the soup, enhancing its overall indulgence.

Season and Finish (2 minutes)

1. Add Mustard and Cheese: Stir in the Dijon mustard and grated cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the soup. The mustard adds a subtle tang, while the cheese provides a luscious, melty finish.
2. Season to Taste: Season the soup with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup into bowls. Garnish with additional grated cheese, a sprinkle of black pepper, and fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a complete and satisfying meal. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting starter to a larger meal.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup is a delightful, hearty dish that combines the goodness of vegetables with the comforting richness of cheese. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing meal on a cold day or a delicious way to enjoy more vegetables, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Its creamy texture and savory flavor make it a standout dish that’s both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. Enjoy this soup with family and friends, or savor a bowl on your own for a comforting treat.