If you are looking for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Rich, creamy, and packed with vibrant green broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and wholesome goodness. Every spoonful offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that is sure to brighten any chilly day or casual dinner. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or even a special gathering, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to make and utterly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of straightforward, fresh ingredients is all it takes to create this flavorful soup. Each component plays a crucial role—whether it’s giving body, creaminess, or a pop of color to your meal.
- Butter (5 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables for a mellow base flavor.
- White onion (1 small, diced): Offers sweetness and depth that lifts the soup’s overall profile.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a subtle aromatic warmth that balances the cheesy richness.
- Flour (¼ cup): The perfect thickening agent to give your soup a luscious, creamy texture.
- Milk (2 cups): Adds creaminess without being too heavy, keeping the soup smooth and velvety.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (2 cups): Provides savory depth while keeping saltiness under control.
- Fresh or frozen broccoli florets (2 cups, chopped): The star veggie that packs nutrients, color, and texture.
- Carrots (1 cup, thinly sliced): Add a gentle sweetness and a beautiful splash of color.
- Cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded): The rich and tangy flavor that defines this soup and makes it irresistible.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Simple seasoning to bring all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Start by melting part of the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become fragrant and soft, about 3 to 5 minutes. This step lays down the flavor foundation for the entire soup by mellowing the sharpness and drawing out natural sweetness.
Step 2: Create the Roux and Add Liquids
Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the flour to form a roux. Cook it gently for a minute or two, which helps eliminate the raw flour taste. Next, slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. This forms the creamy body of the soup and is where things start to thicken beautifully.
Step 3: Simmer Until Thickened
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for several minutes. This allows the soup to thicken naturally while the flavors meld together. Keeping an eye on this step ensures you get a silky smooth texture without overcooking.
Step 4: Add Broccoli and Carrots
Now it’s time to add in the healthy green broccoli and sweet carrots. Stir them into the pot, cover it, and cook until the vegetables are tender but still retain a bit of bite—this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. The veggies bring vibrancy, nutrition, and wonderful texture contrasts to the soup.
Step 5: Stir in the Cheese
Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese in batches. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely into the soup, giving it a rich, luscious finish. This step is the heart of the Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe and where the soup transforms into that creamy comfort food we all love.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper according to your preference. Take a moment to taste and adjust as needed—this simple touch brings all the ingredients together in perfect harmony.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your soup is a creative and tasty way to add excitement to each bowl. Try freshly chopped chives, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, or a few crunchy croutons. These little touches add texture and make the presentation feel extra special.
Side Dishes
A bowl of this soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a warm baguette, or even soft pretzel rolls. For a lighter option, consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or serve something unique, try presenting the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls or mini ramekins for individual portions. You can also swirl in a spoonful of pesto or crispy bacon bits for an elevated flavor experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify overnight, making leftovers just as delicious as freshly made soup.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but because it contains dairy, it’s best to freeze before adding the cheese. Reheat gently and stir in the cheddar fresh before serving to maintain that creamy texture and sharp flavor.
Reheating
When reheating, do so on low heat and stir frequently to prevent the cheese from separating or the soup from sticking to the pan. Add a splash of milk if it thickens too much during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works wonderfully and often saves prep time. Just be sure to thaw and drain it if needed to avoid excess water in your soup.
What type of cheddar cheese is best for this soup?
A sharp or extra-sharp cheddar gives the most flavor punch, but mild cheddar works well too if you prefer a subtler taste. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
Is there a dairy-free version of this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe?
For a dairy-free twist, use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and a vegan cheese alternative. The flavor profile shifts slightly but can still be rich and satisfying.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the chicken broth for a flavorful vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version without sacrificing taste.
How thick should the soup be?
The ideal Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is creamy but not overly thick—enough to coat a spoon nicely. Adjust thickness by adding more broth or milk if needed during cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is one of those classic dishes that truly feels like home in every bite. Easy to make with pantry staples and fresh veggies, it’s perfect for any day you want comfort food without fuss. I hope you give this a try soon—you might just find yourself making it again and again, sharing the warmth and joy it brings to your table.
Print
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and delicious meal, perfect for chilly days. Made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smooth, velvety base, this soup combines simple ingredients for a hearty and flavorful experience that serves 4. It’s easy to prepare on the stovetop, making it an ideal option for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 5 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Vegetables
- 2 cups chopped fresh broccoli or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
- Make the Roux: Stir in ¼ cup of flour to the onion and garlic mixture, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste while stirring constantly. This forms the roux that will thicken the soup.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk and 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped broccoli and thinly sliced carrots to the pot. Continue simmering for another 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.
- Incorporate Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese in batches, allowing it to melt completely and blend smoothly into the soup.
- Season: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired. Stir well and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the salt level for a healthier soup.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Fresh broccoli provides a brighter flavor, while frozen broccoli works well and saves prep time.
- To thicken the soup further, you can add a bit more flour when making the roux or simmer longer.
- If the soup is too thick, thin it with additional milk or broth to your desired consistency.
