If you are craving a warm, comforting bowl that feels like a big, cozy hug, this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a creamy, cheesy delight packed with tender broccoli and a hint of savory sweetness from carrots and onion. Every spoonful melts in your mouth, combining the freshness of vegetables with the rich, velvety texture of sharp cheddar. This soup manages to be both hearty and light enough to enjoy any time of year, making it a true kitchen superstar that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to this soup’s magic. Each component plays a vital role—whether adding flavor, creaminess, or that perfect cheesy finish.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Provides a rich, silky base to sauté your aromatics and start the roux.
- Small onion, chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when softened.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Adds an irresistible fragrant punch that elevates the entire dish.
- All-purpose flour (¼ cup): Thickens the soup perfectly while blending smoothly into the broth.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (2 cups): Infuses the soup with savory notes without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
- Half-and-half or whole milk (2 cups): Creates that luscious, creamy texture that makes this soup so comforting.
- Fresh broccoli florets, chopped (4 cups): The star ingredient offering a fresh, vibrant green color and delightful bite.
- Large carrot, grated or finely chopped: Adds subtle natural sweetness and beautiful orange flecks.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups): Melts smoothly to give a bold, cheesy richness that defines the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional): Introduces a warm, slightly nutty undertone that complements the cheese.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add your chopped onion and cook it gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook just until it becomes fragrant. This step sets the flavorful foundation for your soup, releasing natural sweetness and rich aromas that will carry through every spoonful.
Step 2: Make the Roux and Add Broth
Next, sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and garlic, whisking continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. This cooking process eliminates the raw flour taste and helps form a smooth roux, which is key to thickening our broth later. Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth in a steady stream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once combined, add the half-and-half or milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This creamy, silky base is starting to come together beautifully now.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Simmer
Now, stir in the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot. Let these cook gently for 15 to 20 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet still vibrant green. The carrots add a little sweetness and color contrast that make this soup so visually appealing and balanced. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or carefully transfer some to a blender. This step is optional but adds a lovely creaminess without losing the delightful bits of broccoli.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheese and Season
Turn the heat down to low and gradually add your shredded sharp cheddar cheese by handfuls, stirring constantly until it fully melts into the soup, creating a velvety, cheesy consistency. Finish off by seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of ground nutmeg if desired. The nutmeg subtly enhances the cheese’s flavor, making every bite even more irresistible. Your Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is now ready to warm your soul.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation and add layers of texture with simple garnishes. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a handful of chopped fresh chives brings a pop of color and fresh flavor. For a bit of crunch, crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs work wonderfully, offering contrast to the creamy soup.
Side Dishes
This soup holds its own but loving company transforms it into a full meal. Pair it with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or garlic breadsticks to soak up every last drop. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls or mini pumpkin bread bowls, especially during fall. You can also layer the soup with toasted cheese croutons on top for playful texture. If entertaining, offer a soup bar with various toppings like shredded cheese, diced ham, sour cream, or chopped herbs to let everyone customize their own bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe tastes just as wonderful the next day. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings when you want a quick and comforting meal.
Freezing
If you want to keep this soup longer, it freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then pour into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Frozen broccoli cheese soup maintains its creamy texture and delicious flavor for up to two months. Just be mindful to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If it thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk or broth to reach the perfect consistency again. Avoid using high heat to keep the cheese smooth and luscious.
FAQs
Can I make this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll still get that hearty, flavorful soup that everyone loves.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well and is a great pantry backup. Just be sure to thaw it and drain excess liquid to avoid diluting the soup.
How do I make the soup thicker or thinner?
If you want a thicker soup, add a bit more flour when making the roux or simmer it longer uncovered to reduce. To thin it out, simply stir in extra milk or broth until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I substitute cheddar cheese with another cheese?
While sharp cheddar gives the soup its classic flavor, feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or a mild Swiss cheese for a different cheesy profile.
Is this soup freezer-friendly without changing the texture?
Yes, this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe freezes very well. Just remember to reheat gently and stir often, as reheating slowly helps maintain the creamy, smooth texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like coming home to a steaming bowl of homemade soup, especially one as comforting and flavorful as this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe. It’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh veggies and cheese all in one bowl, perfect for cozy nights or casual dinners. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and find as much joy in making and eating it as I do sharing it with friends like you.
Print
Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheese Soup is a delicious blend of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smooth, velvety base made with butter, garlic, onions, and a roux. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a hearty and satisfying soup, it combines classic American flavors with simple ingredients to create a rich, cheesy meal that’s easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 large carrot, grated or finely chopped
Cheese and Seasoning
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the butter, onion, and garlic mixture. Whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the soup and remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Then, add the half-and-half or milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot to the pot. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
- Blend Soup (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot, or carefully transfer a portion to a standard blender and blend before returning it to the pot.
- Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time until fully melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Season & Serve: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and a pinch of ground nutmeg if using. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- You can add cooked bacon or diced potatoes for variation and more texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
