If you’re craving a cozy, creamy, and utterly comforting bowl, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It blends tender broccoli florets with sharp cheddar cheese, all wrapped up in a velvety base made from a rich combination of butter, milk, and cream. The subtle hints of garlic and onion add depth, while a touch of nutmeg gives a surprising warm note to this classic favorite. Whether you’re settling in on a chilly evening or hosting a casual lunch, this soup hits all the right notes for a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the handful of ingredients fool you; each one plays a crucial role in creating the magic of this soup. Simple pantry staples combine with fresh produce and sharp cheese to deliver layers of taste, texture, and inviting color.

Unsalted butter, 4 tablespoons: Provides the rich, creamy base and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
Yellow onion, 1 small, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth without overpowering the broccoli.
Garlic cloves, 2, minced: Brings a subtle, aromatic brightness that enhances the overall flavor.
All-purpose flour, 1/4 cup: Essential for making the roux, which thickens and lends a silky thickness to the soup.
Low-sodium vegetable broth, 2 cups: Adds savory flavor and moisture while keeping sodium levels in check.
Whole milk, 2 cups: Creates a creamy texture and balances the sharpness of the cheddar.
Heavy cream, 1 cup: Boosts richness and smooth mouthfeel, making the soup luxuriously indulgent.
Fresh broccoli florets, 4 cups, chopped small: The star ingredient, providing color, nutrients, and that satisfying fresh crunch.
Large carrot, 1, shredded: Adds a faint sweetness and a pop of orange hue, complementing the greens beautifully.
Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming the natural ingredients.
Black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon: Gives a gentle heat and spice to lift the soup.
Ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon (optional): A pinch adds warmth and complexity, rounding out the flavors.
Sharp cheddar cheese, 2 cups, shredded: The cheesy heart of the recipe, melting into every spoonful with bold flavor.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and cook until it turns soft and translucent, about four to five minutes. This slow cooking releases the natural sweetness of the onion, creating a savory base that’s essential for a layered soup. Toss in the minced garlic and cook briefly for 30 seconds more, just until fragrant but not browned, making sure the garlic flavor remains fresh and bright.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, whisking constantly for one to two minutes. This creates a roux, which is the key thickening agent for your soup. Cooking the flour for this short time ensures you lose the raw taste while maintaining the ability to thicken the broth without lumps. Keep stirring to avoid any browning—this step lays down the perfect foundation for a creamy, smooth texture.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Bring to Simmer

Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, whisking continually to prevent lumps from forming. Then add the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is silky smooth. Increasing the heat to bring the pot to a gentle simmer is important; you want to cook the roux through and let the blend thicken slightly—but keep the heat moderate so it doesn’t scald.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables and Seasonings

Once simmering, stir in the chopped broccoli, shredded carrot, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Cover the pot and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli softens and the flavors meld beautifully. This slow simmer helps unlock the nutrients and bright flavor of the broccoli while the carrot adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish

Lower the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, adding a handful at a time. This slow incorporation helps the cheese melt fully and evenly, transforming the soup into an irresistibly creamy and cheesy delight. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve warm for maximum comfort and satisfaction.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A simple garnish can elevate this soup from homey to spectacular. Consider topping your bowl with crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch, chopped fresh chives or green onions for a pop of color and freshness, or even a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar for that melty final touch. A drizzle of crème fraîche or sour cream adds creamy tang that pairs beautifully with sharp cheddar.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with freshly baked bread—for instance, a crusty baguette, a warm sourdough slice, or crunchy garlic breadsticks. For a lighter side, a crisp green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette can brighten the meal and balance the rich soup. If you want a heartier pairing, grilled cheese sandwiches or savory croissants make for a perfectly indulgent combo.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the broccoli cheddar soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This creates an edible vessel that soaks up all the creamy goodness. Another fun idea is to top each serving with homemade croutons seasoned with herbs and garlic. You could also swirl in a bit of pesto or hot sauce for extra zing, giving your soup a delightful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it tasting fresh, cool the soup completely before sealing and refrigerating. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring regularly to prevent sticking or separation.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for longer storage, but cheese-based soups may change texture slightly after thawing. To freeze, cool the soup completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When thawed, you might notice a bit of separation that can easily be remedied by whisking or blending during reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. This method prevents the cheese from clumping or scorching. If the soup seems too thick, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. For an ultra-smooth finish, blending the soup briefly with an immersion blender after reheating can refresh the texture beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this soup and can be a convenient alternative. Just be mindful that frozen broccoli releases more water, so you might want to reduce the broth slightly or simmer the soup a little longer to reach your desired thickness.

What type of cheddar cheese is best?

A sharp cheddar cheese is recommended because it melts smoothly and packs a punch of flavor that complements the broccoli perfectly. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded, which may contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives such as almond milk or coconut cream and vegan cheddar-style cheese. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will slightly differ, but it can still yield a tasty, comforting soup.

Can I make this soup thicker or thinner?

Absolutely! To thicken, simmer the soup uncovered for longer or add a bit more flour during the roux stage. To thin it, stir in additional broth or milk until you get the desired consistency—this soup is very forgiving and can be adjusted to your taste.

Should I blend the soup before adding cheese?

Blending part or all of the soup before adding cheese is a great trick if you prefer a smoother texture. It’s optional and depends on personal preference. Using an immersion blender, you can pulse to your preferred consistency before folding in the cheddar, which melts best when added last.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe a try the next time you want a meal that’s simple to make but bursting with comforting flavor. It’s one of those dishes that feels special yet effortlessly satisfying, perfect for any day of the year. Cozy up with a big bowl of this cheesy, creamy goodness—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

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4.2 from 77 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A rich and creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup made on the stovetop, featuring fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smooth roux base. Perfectly seasoned and comforting, this vegetarian soup is ideal for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream

Vegetables and Seasonings

4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
1 large carrot, shredded
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Cheese

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

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Instructions

Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
Make Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the soup.
Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Then add the milk and heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
Simmer Soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the chopped broccoli, shredded carrot, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender.
Incorporate Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time until melted and smooth.
Adjust and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the soup warm for best flavor and texture.

Notes

For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup before adding the cheese.
Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American