Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is rich, creamy, and loaded with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and simple pantry ingredients. It’s a cozy one-pot meal that’s ready in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Make creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and simple ingredients. An easy one-pot comfort food recipe ready in 40 minutes.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Calories: 495

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cups broccoli florets chopped
• 2 medium carrots shredded
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Method

 

1. Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
5. Add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously.
6. Stir in the broccoli, shredded carrots, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
7. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender.
8. Use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup if you prefer a thicker, creamier texture while leaving some broccoli pieces intact.
9. Reduce the heat to low.
10. Gradually stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan until completely melted and smooth.
11. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
12. Serve hot with extra shredded cheddar and crusty bread.

Notes

• Freshly shredded cheese melts much better than pre-shredded cheese.
• Keep the soup at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling after adding the cheese.
• Blend only part of the soup for the perfect texture.
• Add a splash of milk if the soup becomes too thick.
• Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Variations

• Add cooked chicken for extra protein.
• Mix in cooked bacon pieces.
• Use smoked cheddar for a deeper flavor.
• Add cauliflower with the broccoli.
• Stir in diced potatoes for a heartier soup.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty artisan bread
• Garlic bread
• Bread bowls
• Side salad
• Grilled cheese sandwich
• Crackers

Tips

• Shred the cheese yourself for the smoothest soup.
• Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Let the soup cool slightly before storing.
• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently over low heat while stirring frequently.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings

Serves: 6

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 495
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 37g
• Sodium: 890mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes. Frozen broccoli works well and doesn’t need to be thawed first. Simply add it directly to the soup and cook until tender.

Why did my cheese become grainy?

This usually happens if the soup is too hot when the cheese is added. Lower the heat and stir in the cheese gradually for the smoothest texture.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Reheat gently over low heat to keep the soup creamy.

Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can, but dairy-based soups may separate slightly after thawing. Stir well while reheating, and add a splash of milk or cream if needed.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar gives the classic flavor, but you can also combine it with white cheddar, Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for extra richness.

How can I make the soup thicker?

Blend more of the broccoli into the soup or simmer it a little longer before adding the cheese. Both methods naturally thicken the soup.

Conclusion

This homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, comforting, and packed with cheesy goodness in every spoonful. It’s an easy one-pot recipe that’s perfect with warm bread for a satisfying lunch or dinner.