Simple Broccoli Soup with Cheddar Croutons

Ingredients

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• 5 cups chopped broccoli florets and stalks
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• 1 onion, chopped into 1-inch pieces
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• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
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• 3 cups vegetable broth
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• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
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• ¾ teaspoon lemon pepper, or more as needed
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• crushed red pepper flakes to taste
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Instructions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2
   Place broccoli, onion, garlic, and olive oil in a large bowl and toss to coat evenly. Place on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
3. 3
   Roast vegetables until soft, 30 to 35 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. Remove from oven. Chop 1/4 cup of broccoli florets; set aside for garnish.
4. 4
   Combine remaining vegetables with vegetable broth, cream cheese, and lemon pepper in a high-powered blender or food processor in batches. Puree soup until smooth.
5. 5
   Pour soup into a saucepan over medium-low heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes. Season with additional lemon pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls. Garnish with reserved chopped broccoli and crushed red pepper.