Creating Roasted Broccoli & Cheddar Soup is a simple and enjoyable process. Follow these steps to achieve a deliciously creamy soup:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the Broccoli: Place the chopped broccoli florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large pot over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted broccoli to the pot with onions and garlic. Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow to simmer for about 10-15 minutes to blend flavors.
5. Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer to a regular blender in batches, but be cautious with hot liquids.
6. Add Cream and Cheese: Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Season: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you desire some heat.
8. Serve: Allow the soup to heat through but do not bring it to a boil after adding the cheese.

This straightforward process will guide you to creating a creamy, flavorful Roasted Broccoli & Cheddar Soup that’s sure to please.