Creamy and Comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Warm up with a bowl of rich, creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a comforting classic that perfectly balances the hearty goodness of fresh broccoli with the smooth, velvety texture of melted cheddar cheese. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch option, this soup is a delicious choice that’s easy to make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a favorite for a reason—it’s packed with flavor, incredibly creamy, and full of nutritious ingredients. Each spoonful delivers the perfect blend of cheesy richness and tender bites of broccoli, making it a go-to dish for both kids and adults alike.

• Rich and Velvety Texture – This soup is made with a creamy cheese base that coats every piece of broccoli, creating a smooth and luxurious bite.
• Nutritious and Satisfying – Broccoli adds a boost of vitamins and fiber, making this soup both wholesome and delicious.
• Quick and Easy to Prepare – With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have this homemade soup ready in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it as a starter, a light meal, or pair it with some crusty bread for a heartier dish.

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To create this rich and creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to form a flavorful and satisfying dish. Each component plays an important role in achieving the perfect taste and texture.

• Fresh Broccoli – The star of the dish! Use fresh broccoli florets for the best texture and flavor. You can also chop the stems finely to reduce waste and add extra fiber.
• Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar cheese gives this soup its signature creamy, tangy, and rich flavor. Always use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and consistency.
• Butter – Adds a silky, smooth base and helps create a flavorful roux for thickening the soup.
• All-Purpose Flour – Works with butter to create a roux, giving the soup its thick and creamy consistency.
• Milk and Heavy Cream – A combination of milk and heavy cream provides a perfect balance of richness and smoothness. You can adjust the ratio depending on your preferred level of creaminess.
• Vegetable Broth – Helps create the perfect soup base while enhancing the overall depth of flavor. If you prefer a lighter soup, you can use more broth and less cream.
• Carrots – Adds a subtle sweetness and beautiful color contrast to the soup. Finely shredded carrots blend seamlessly into the creamy broth.
• Garlic and Onion – Essential for building a savory depth of flavor in the soup. Freshly minced garlic and finely chopped onion work best.
• Salt, Black Pepper, and Nutmeg – Seasoning is key! A pinch of nutmeg enhances the warmth of the soup, while salt and black pepper bring out the flavors.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps for a perfectly creamy and delicious bowl of soup.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into small florets. Grate the carrots and shred the cheddar cheese. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic to have everything ready before you begin cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for the soup.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and stir continuously for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste. This step is crucial for thickening the soup.

Step 4: Add the Liquids

Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Follow with the milk and heavy cream, stirring until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Cook the Vegetables

Add the shredded carrots and chopped broccoli florets to the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender but not mushy.

Step 6: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)

For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup while leaving some broccoli pieces intact. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step.

Step 7: Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes thick and creamy. Avoid boiling the soup at this stage, as high heat can cause the cheese to separate.

Step 8: Season and Serve

Add salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavors. Stir well, then ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese and serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

How Long to Cook Broccoli Cheddar Soup

The key to a perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup lies in cooking it just long enough to achieve a creamy texture while keeping the broccoli tender. Here’s a guide to help you get the best results:

• Simmering the Vegetables – After adding the broccoli and carrots, let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are soft but not overcooked.
• Melting the Cheese – Once the soup is off the heat, stir in the cheddar cheese and let it melt gently. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Avoid high heat at this stage to prevent the cheese from curdling.

In total, the cooking process should take around 25-30 minutes from start to finish.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup, here’s how to store it properly to enjoy later:

• Refrigerator – Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.
• Freezer – While you can freeze this soup, the texture may change slightly due to the dairy content. If freezing, let the soup cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these expert tips:

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly shredded cheddar will give the soup a velvety consistency.
• Don’t Boil After Adding Cheese – High heat can cause the cheese to separate, leading to a grainy texture. Always reduce the heat to low before stirring in the cheese.
• Adjust Thickness as Needed – If the soup is too thick, add a little more vegetable broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.
• For Extra Flavor – Add a splash of Dijon mustard or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
• Blend for a Smoother Texture – If you prefer a creamy soup without chunks, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Otherwise, leave some broccoli pieces for a heartier texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes! You can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to reduce the cooking time slightly since frozen broccoli cooks faster than fresh.

What type of cheddar is best?
Sharp cheddar is ideal because it adds a bold flavor that balances the creaminess of the soup. However, mild or medium cheddar also works well.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch as a thickener.

How can I make this soup lighter?
For a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with more milk or use a plant-based milk alternative. You can also use reduced-fat cheese.

Print