If you’re craving a bowl of comfort that’s brimming with creamy, cheesy goodness, you’ve got to try this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe. It perfectly blends tender broccoli, sweet carrots, and sharp cheddar into a velvety soup that warms you from the inside out. Every spoonful celebrates cozy, classic flavors, making it the ultimate choice for chilly weeknights or anytime you need a hug in a bowl. Trust me, this is one homemade soup you’ll want to make again and again!

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe that tastes far richer than the effort required. Each element brings its own magic, building layers of flavor, color, and that irresistible creamy texture you crave!

Butter: Provides richness and forms the base for the sautéed aromatics and roux.
Onion (diced): Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
Garlic (minced): Gives a gentle aromatic lift that complements the creamy base.
All-purpose flour: Thickens the soup to a luscious, spoon-coating consistency.
Whole milk: Delivers creaminess and a mellow backbone for the cheddar to shine.
Heavy cream: Adds a luxurious finish and smooth, silky texture.
Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Infuses savory backbone while allowing the broccoli and cheese to shine.
Broccoli florets (chopped small): Offers vibrant color and wholesome veggie goodness—chop tiny for maximum tenderness!
Shredded carrots: Add a slight sweetness and pretty pops of orange.
Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors—taste before adding more!
Black pepper: Provides a gentle kick and balances the creamy cheese.
Paprika (optional): Infuses a touch of warmth and color—try smoked for a twist.
Sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated): Melts in for bold, tangy cheesiness that makes the soup irresistible.
Extra cheese or croutons for garnish (optional): Adds crunch or extra creamy goodness right on top!

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Begin by melting butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and give it a good stir. As the onion softens and turns translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes—the kitchen already smells amazing. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly, just 30 seconds, to unlock its fragrant aroma without letting it brown.

Step 2: Create a Roux

Now, sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes; this toasty paste (a roux) is the secret to thickening your Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe into creamy perfection. Don’t rush this step—the flour should lose its raw edge but stay pale in color.

Step 3: Whisk in Dairy

Slowly pour in the whole milk, then heavy cream, whisking all the while. The mixture will gradually thicken into a smooth, velvety base—just keep stirring, about 3–4 minutes. This forms the luxurious foundation where all those veggies and cheese will shine!

Step 4: Add Broth and Vegetables

Stir in the broth and bring the mixture back to a simmer. Now, add the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, salt, pepper, and paprika if you’re using it. This colorful medley needs to cook, uncovered, for 15–20 minutes. By the end, the veggies will be gorgeously tender—perfect for scooping up in every bite.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)

If you love a super-smooth Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe, use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup before adding cheese. Blending provides a silkier texture, but leave some bits if you like a nice chunky bite!

Step 6: Melt in the Cheddar

Lower the heat and gradually add in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently and patiently; fresh cheese melts seamlessly, creating that classic silky finish. Don’t let the soup boil at this stage—keep it smooth and creamy by staying slow and steady.

Step 7: Taste and Serve

Give your masterpiece a final taste and adjust the salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe immediately into bowls. Top with extra cheese or a handful of crunchy croutons for a finishing touch. Grab your spoon—it’s time to dig in!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing your bowl isn’t just about looks—it adds flavor and texture, too! Sprinkle a little extra cheddar on top just before serving for an oozy, melty finish, or toss in a handful of crispy croutons that soak up all that creamy goodness. You can even add a swirl of cream or a few grinds of black pepper for that final flourish.

Side Dishes

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe pairs beautifully with thick slices of crusty bread, a lightly toasted baguette, or a warm, buttery biscuit for dipping. If you’re after something lighter, try a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance all that lovely richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your presentation by serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls—they’re both fun and functional! For gatherings, pour the soup into cute mini mugs or shot glasses as an appetizer. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or finely chopped chives on top brings extra color and style to your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Stir before reheating for the best texture, as the soup can thicken when chilled.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen, though keep in mind that the texture may change slightly due to the dairy. For best results, cool it completely, then freeze in single-serving portions. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently.

Reheating

Gently warm the soup over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking or separating. If it seems too thick, splash in a little extra broth or milk. Avoid boiling—it helps keep the cheese smooth and melty.

FAQs

Can I make this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ve got a deliciously meatless version that’s just as flavorful and comforting.

What’s the best type of cheddar for this soup?

Always choose sharp or extra-sharp cheddar and grate it yourself right before adding to the soup. The stronger flavor stands up beautifully to the creamy base, and freshly grated cheese melts much more smoothly than pre-shredded.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works in a pinch—just thaw and chop it before adding to the pot. Fresh broccoli offers a slightly better texture, but both will give you a fabulous Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe.

How can I make the soup gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free all-purpose blend or cornstarch (use half as much cornstarch). The soup thickens beautifully, and you still get that silky finish.

Is it possible to lighten up this soup?

You can substitute 2% milk for the whole milk and use half-and-half or more milk in place of heavy cream. The soup will be a little less rich but still bursting with Cheddar and broccoli flavor!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a foolproof, soul-warming meal, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe just can’t be beaten. It’s creamy, comforting, and totally satisfying—plus, it’s way easier than you’d think! Give it a try, and you might just find yourself coming back for a second (or third!) bowl. Happy soup-making!

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

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4.7 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy comfort of homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This rich and flavorful soup is a hearty classic that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Soup:

2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
4 cups broccoli florets (chopped small)
1 cup shredded carrots
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)

For Garnish:

Extra cheese or croutons (optional)

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened, then add garlic.
Create Roux: Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture, stir to form a roux.
Make Base: Slowly whisk in milk and cream until thickened. Add broth, broccoli, carrots, seasonings, and simmer.
Melt Cheese: Reduce heat, stir in cheddar until smooth. Adjust seasoning.
Serve: Optionally blend for smoother texture. Serve hot with garnishes.

Notes

For a smoother texture, blend part or all of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cheese.
Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest melt—pre-shredded cheese can make the soup grainy.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American