There’s just something about a warm, creamy bowl of broccoli cheddar soup that feels like a big cozy hug in a bowl. It’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor, yet surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether you’re curled up on a rainy day or looking for a comforting side for your crusty bread, this soup is always the answer. Trust me, once you try this version, you’ll keep coming back for more spoonfuls.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or a side. It fits every meal and occasion.
Budget-Friendly: Uses basic pantry staples and veggies you probably already have on hand.
Quick and Easy: Comes together in one pot with minimal fuss—perfect for busy days.
Customizable: Add carrots, cauliflower, or even a touch of spice to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Here’s the magic of this soup—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Broccoli Florets: The star of the show, chopped into small, tender pieces that soak up all the cheesy goodness.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings bold, melty richness—don’t skimp on quality here!
Onion: Adds savory depth and aroma to the base of the soup.
Garlic: Gives the soup a warm, flavorful kick.
Butter: For sautéing the aromatics and creating a velvety roux base.
Flour: Helps thicken the soup to that perfectly creamy consistency.
Milk and Cream: The duo that brings luscious creaminess without being too heavy.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Builds a flavorful base while keeping things light.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the cozy flavors.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your stovetop with a large soup pot over medium heat.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the pot, melt butter and add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant—this is where the flavor begins.
Make a Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for about a minute to form a thick paste. This step is key for getting that smooth, creamy texture.
Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the broth followed by milk and cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Simmer the Veggies: Add the chopped broccoli to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the broccoli is tender—about 10–15 minutes.
Blend (Optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the mixture to your desired texture.
Stir in the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and gradually add shredded cheddar, stirring until fully melted and velvety.
Season and Finish: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra cheese or a touch of cream if you like, and serve warm with crusty bread.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
(Note: nutrition may vary based on brands and added ingredients.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve it in a bread bowl for an extra cozy presentation
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a fresh contrast
- Add a grilled cheese sandwich on the side for the ultimate comfort combo
- Top with crispy bacon or croutons for texture and extra flavor
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor, but frozen works in a pinch
- Grate your own cheese for a smoother melt—pre-shredded can be grainy
- Don’t let the soup boil after adding the cheese to avoid curdling
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle warmth that enhances the cheddar
FAQ’s
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes! Just thaw and drain it first for the best texture. - Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. - How do I reheat the soup without it separating?
Reheat on low heat and stir frequently. Avoid boiling to keep it creamy. - Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives, and skip the cream. - Can I freeze this soup?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it—just note the texture may change slightly. - What kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but a blend with mild cheddar or Gouda is also great. - Can I add other veggies?
Of course! Carrots, cauliflower, or even potatoes make great additions. - Why did my soup get grainy?
It likely boiled after adding the cheese. Keep it on low heat for a smooth result. - Is this soup gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. - How thick should the soup be?
That’s up to you! Add a little more broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.
Conclusion
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is one of those soul-soothing recipes that always hits the spot. Whether you’re serving it up for family or savoring it solo, it’s a feel-good meal that’s both easy and satisfying. One bowl, and you’ll understand why this one’s a total keeper.
Print
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 30min
- Total Time: 40min
- Yield: 6servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting, cheesy soup made with tender broccoli, fresh carrots, and a rich blend of sharp cheddar cheese and cream. It’s the ultimate cozy meal for chilly days.
Ingredients
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1 medium carrot, grated
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
5. Stir in milk and cream, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Add broccoli and carrots, reduce heat to low, and cook for about 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
7. Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture, or leave it chunky if preferred.
8. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
9. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Serve hot.
Notes
– You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
– For a thicker soup, reduce the milk or add more cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg