BLESS THIS MESS
Thick and creamy Stove Top Cheddar Broccoli Soup is what my dreams are made of. This is a highly requested recipe and there is no doubt why. Cheddar broccoli soup is the epitome of comfort food.
In a large stock pot or dutch oven, add the butter and onion and sauté until the onion is tender over medium to medium high heat, about 5 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the chicken stock, broccoli, carrots, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Allow the mixture to come to a boil and reduce the heat to a simmer, simmer until the broccoli is cooked through and very tender, about 15-20 minutes.
In a small bowl whisk together the corn starch and cold water until smooth.
Slowly add the corn starch mixture to the pot. Stir constantly until the soup comes to a simmer and thickens, about 3 minutes.
Slowly stir in the cream or half-and-half. Add the cheese a handful at a time and stir until it melts.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.