"Creamy & delicious broccoli cheddar soup made in ONE POT on the stovetop. This soup is easy to make and full of flavor (the "secret" is in the spices!)...."
INGREDIENTS
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7 tablespoons unsalted butter, (separated)
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1/2 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small yellow onion, (diced (1 cup))
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2 small cloves garlic, (minced)
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3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
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3/4 teaspoon ground mustard
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1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
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Fine sea salt and pepper
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6 tablespoons white flour
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1 container (32 ounces (about 4 cups)) low-sodium chicken stock (or broth) ((use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version))
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3 cups fat free half and half
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1 bay leaf
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6 cups chopped broccoli crowns ((~4 large crowns))
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2 cups matchstick/shredded carrots
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12 ounces high quality extra sharp cheddar cheese ((don't use pre-shredded -- it doesn't melt well in this soup))
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Optional: crusty bread OR bread bowls (we love serving this soup in sourdough bread bowls!)