Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Few dishes deliver comfort quite like a steaming bowl of broccoli cheddar soup. Imagine tender bites of broccoli suspended in a velvety, cheesy broth that clings to your spoon with just the right thickness. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic mingling with melted cheddar fills the air, wrapping you in warmth before you even take the first bite. Creamy, hearty, and deeply satisfying, this soup is the definition of cozy comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something rich and soothing.

Behind the Recipe

The first time I made broccoli cheddar soup from scratch, I realized just how much better it tasted compared to anything from a can. Watching the onions soften in butter, the broccoli turn a vibrant green, and the cheddar melt into the pot felt like crafting something truly special. It became a family tradition during the colder months—served with crusty bread or in a bread bowl, it’s the kind of dish that turns dinner into an occasion.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Broccoli cheddar soup became widely popular in the United States thanks to casual dining chains like Panera Bread, which turned it into a menu icon. While creamy vegetable soups have long been a part of European cuisine, the pairing of broccoli and cheddar is distinctly American. The rich cheddar balances the earthy broccoli beautifully, creating a dish that’s as wholesome as it is indulgent.

Why You’ll Love Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This soup is one of those recipes you’ll make again and again, and here’s why:

Versatile: Works as a starter, main dish, or side.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients like broccoli, cheese, and milk.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes.

Customizable: Adjust the thickness or add mix-ins like carrots or cauliflower.

Crowd-Pleasing: Both kids and adults love the creamy, cheesy flavor.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors deepen when made ahead.

Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully for easy lunches.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A few tricks will take your soup from good to unforgettable.

• Grate your own cheddar cheese for smooth melting; pre-shredded tends to clump.
• Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor that cuts through the creaminess.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli; keep some bite for texture.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the cheesy base subtly.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Simple tools make the process seamless.

Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For cooking the soup evenly.

Wooden Spoon: For stirring the roux and soup base.

Whisk: Helps create a smooth, lump-free sauce.

Cheese Grater: Essential for freshly grated cheddar.

Immersion Blender (optional): For a creamier texture.

Ingredients in Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Each ingredient adds depth and richness to the final bowl.

1. Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, for sautéing vegetables and creating the roux.
2. Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped, adds savory sweetness.
3. Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, provides aromatic depth.
4. All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup (30 g), thickens the soup base.
5. Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 3 cups (720 ml), forms the flavorful liquid base.
6. Whole Milk: 2 cups (480 ml), for creaminess.
7. Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240 ml), makes the soup rich and velvety.
8. Broccoli Florets: 4 cups (350 g), chopped, the star ingredient.
9. Carrots: 1 cup (100 g), shredded, adds sweetness and color.
10. Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (200 g), freshly grated, for cheesy flavor.
11. Salt: 1 teaspoon, to balance flavors.
12. Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, for seasoning.
13. Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon, optional, adds warmth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t worry if you’re missing something—this soup adapts easily.

Whole Milk: Use 2% milk or unsweetened almond milk.
Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or extra milk for lighter soup.
Cheddar Cheese: Try Gruyère or Colby Jack.
Broccoli: Cauliflower makes a great substitute.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

Ingredient Spotlight

Broccoli: Adds earthy freshness and provides both flavor and texture.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The backbone of the soup, giving it richness and tang.

Instructions for Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Here’s how to bring this comforting classic to life.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant. Stir in flour to form a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Slowly whisk in broth, then add milk and cream, stirring until smooth.
4. Assemble the Dish: Add broccoli and carrots, simmer for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
5. Cook to Perfection: Reduce heat, stir in cheddar cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until cheese melts.
6. Finishing Touches: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender, leaving some chunks.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or in a bread bowl.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The combination of tender broccoli, slightly sweet carrots, and sharp cheddar creates a harmony of flavors. The roux-based broth provides body, while the cream and cheese give it indulgent richness. A balance of creamy and chunky textures keeps each spoonful satisfying.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Keep the heat low when adding cheese to prevent curdling.
• For extra depth, sauté a pinch of paprika or mustard powder with the onions.
• Double the recipe and freeze portions for future quick meals.

What to Avoid

A few missteps can spoil the soup—avoid these:

• Adding cheese over high heat: Causes separation.
• Overcooking broccoli: Results in mushy texture.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: Often coated with anti-caking agents that affect melting.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 380

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though thaw and reheat slowly to prevent separation.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serve in a bread bowl for a restaurant-style presentation, or ladle into mugs for a cozy snack. Pair with sandwiches, salads, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Use as a sauce over baked potatoes.
• Mix into pasta for a quick broccoli cheddar mac.
• Turn into a casserole base with rice and chicken.

Additional Tips

A sprinkle of extra cheddar on top just before serving adds a gooey finish. For a lighter version, use milk only and reduce the cheese slightly.

Make It a Showstopper

Top with croutons, a drizzle of cream, or crispy bacon bits for extra flair. Serve in a rustic pot with crusty bread on the side to wow your guests.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Broccoli Cauliflower Soup: Use half broccoli and half cauliflower.
• Three-Cheese Soup: Combine cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for depth.
• Lightened-Up Soup: Use low-fat milk and reduced cheese.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use cornstarch or gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.

3. How do I thicken the soup more?

Simmer longer or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.

4. Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 4–5 hours, then stir in cheese at the end.

5. How do I keep cheese from clumping?

Add it slowly over low heat and stir constantly.

6. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but add it near the end of cooking to prevent mushiness.

7. What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar for bold flavor, but mild cheddar for a smoother taste.

8. Can I add protein?

Yes, stir in cooked chicken or ham.

9. Can I blend the whole soup?

Yes, for a completely smooth texture, but leaving some chunks adds variety.

10. What bread pairs best?

Sourdough, baguette, or classic bread bowls.

Conclusion

Broccoli cheddar soup is comfort food at its finest—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to serve guests. Trust me, one spoonful of this rich, velvety soup will have you coming back for more.

Watch How To Make Broccoli cheddar soup