Hey y'all! If you're craving something comforting, cheesy, and loaded with fresh veggies, look no further than this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. It's the ultimate bowl of warmth—thick, creamy, and packed with tender broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese flavor. Whether you're making a cozy weeknight dinner or feeding a hungry crowd, this recipe is guaranteed to please. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Super creamy and rich, making every spoonful a delight.
- Packed with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar for nutritious comfort.
- Quick and easy—ready in under 40 minutes!
- Perfect for meal prep, freezing, and busy weeknights.
- Customizable for vegetarian, gluten-free, or extra cheesy options.
Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes, forming a pale, bubbly paste. This helps thicken your soup and ensures a creamy texture.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Veggies
Slowly pour in chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add chopped broccoli and grated carrot, stir, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until broccoli is very tender.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess
For extra creamy soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup in the pot. Leave some chunks for a rustic feel, or blend completely for smoothness. Alternatively, carefully blend portions in a countertop blender, then return to the pot.
Step 5: Add Dairy and Cheese
Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Reduce heat to low. Gradually add grated cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the soup is silky—about 3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne if desired.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Ladle the hot, creamy broccoli cheddar soup into bowls. Top with extra shredded cheese, homemade croutons, or a sprinkle of black pepper for more flair!
Notes for the Best Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- For extra-depth flavor, try caramelizing your onions first.
- Freshly grated cheese melts down smoother than pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents.
- Swap heavy cream for half and half to lighten up the soup, or visit this guide for healthy alternatives.
Variations on Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and ensure your cheese is rennet-free.
- Low-Carb: Replace flour with a low-carb thickener or omit it entirely for a lighter soup.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or extra cayenne for a zesty kick.
Equipment Needed for Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
- Grater for cheese and carrots
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Immersion blender or countertop blender (for creamier texture)
How to Store Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers and store up to 2 months (thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating). Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently so the cheese doesn’t separate.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Ideas
- Serve with warm, crusty bread or homemade garlic toast for dipping.
- A crisp green salad or classic Caesar salad makes a perfect side.
- Top each bowl with more cheddar, croutons, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Use high-quality, sharp cheddar for the fullest flavor—see this cheddar guide for tips.
- Cut broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces for easy-to-eat, evenly cooked soup.
- Gradually add cheese on low heat to prevent it from separating and keep the soup silky.
FAQ – Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Yes! Thaw and drain before adding to the soup—just reduce simmer time slightly as frozen broccoli softens faster.
- Can I make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?
- Absolutely. Swap the flour for gluten-free all-purpose flour or a cornstarch slurry as a thickener.
- Why is my soup grainy?
- Usually, it’s from adding cheese at too high a temperature. Turn the heat to low and add cheese gradually for the creamiest texture.
Recipe Summary
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6 bowls
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
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1In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
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2Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
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3Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth. Add the broccoli florets and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until broccoli is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
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4Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth (or leave a few chunks if preferred).
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5Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat, stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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6Serve hot with extra cheddar cheese or crusty bread if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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