Welcome to your new favorite comfort food! This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is wonderfully rich, incredibly creamy, and cheesy. It comes together quickly in one pot, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Get ready to enjoy a homemade classic that truly warms the soul.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup
You are going to adore this easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe for so many reasons. It’s a true kitchen winner that brings joy and warmth to any table.
- Quick to Prepare: You can have this delicious soup on the table in under an hour, all in one pot.
- Incredibly Rich and Creamy: Each spoonful offers a luxurious, velvety texture that’s deeply satisfying.
- Loaded with Veggies: Tender broccoli and sweet carrots make this a wholesome and flavorful meal.
- Deep, Satisfying Cheesy Flavor: Sharp cheddar melts into a dreamy base, creating an irresistible taste.
- Easily Adaptable: Adjust ingredients to fit your family’s preferences or dietary needs.
- Homemade Tastes Better: Skip the store-bought versions; this homemade broccoli cheddar soup is superior.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your comforting bowl of homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 1 large carrot, julienned or finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, about 2 heaping cups
- Homemade croutons, for serving, optional
Notes & Substitutions
- Broccoli: Fresh florets are best for texture and flavor in this Broccoli Cheese Soup. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
- Carrots: Julienned or finely diced carrots soften quickly and blend well into the soup.
- Onion & Garlic: Fresh aromatics provide the most vibrant and essential flavor base.
- Butter & Flour: These are crucial for creating a smooth, thick roux, which is the foundation of our creamy soup.
- Milk: Whole milk creates the richest, most decadent texture. Unsweetened almond milk offers a good dairy-free alternative.
- Broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian soup, or chicken broth for a richer, savory depth.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar delivers the best flavor. Always grate your own cheese for superior melting and creaminess in this Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents.
- For a truly superior melt and creaminess, many culinary experts recommend grating your own cheese due to anti-caking agents in pre-shredded varieties.
- Dijon Mustard: Don’t skip this! It enhances the cheesy flavor without making the soup taste like mustard.
- Seasonings: Adjust salt and pepper to your preference throughout the cooking process.
Equipment
You won’t need many special tools to make this delightful Broccoli Cheese Soup.
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for one-pot cooking.
- Whisk: Essential for a smooth roux and lump-free soup.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: For preparing your vegetables.
- Cheese grater: Highly recommended for grating fresh cheddar.
- Immersion blender (optional): For an extra-smooth texture, if desired.
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create the ultimate creamy Soup from scratch. This recipe is designed to be simple and enjoyable for any home cook.
- Step 1: Sauté Aromatics. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and several generous grinds of fresh black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the onion has softened and turned translucent. Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for just 1 more minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. This step builds the foundational flavor for your Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
- Step 2: Make the Roux. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the softened onions and garlic in the pot. Whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep whisking until the flour mixture turns a light golden brown. This cooking step removes the raw flour taste and creates a thickener for your soup base. A well-made roux is key to a perfectly smooth Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
- Step 3: Build the Base. Slowly and gradually pour in the whole milk (or almond milk), whisking continuously as you add it. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth consistency. Next, add the vegetable broth and stir everything together to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, continuing to whisk occasionally.
- Step 4: Cook Vegetables. Once the soup base is simmering, add the chopped broccoli florets and the julienned or finely chopped carrot to the pot. Stir them into the liquid. Continue to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender when pierced with a fork. Stir in the ½ teaspoon of Dijon mustard during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Step 5: Incorporate Cheese. Reduce the heat to very low. This is a crucial step to prevent the cheese from separating. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot, a handful at a time. Stir continuously after each addition until the cheese is fully melted and smoothly incorporated into the soup. Continue until all the cheese is added and the soup is wonderfully creamy.
- Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt or freshly ground black pepper to your preference. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender at this stage to blend some or all of the vegetables. Ladle your warm soup into bowls and serve immediately, optionally topped with homemade croutons or a sprinkle of extra cheese.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Making a fantastic broccoli soup is easy with these helpful tips.
- Freshly Grated Cheese: Always grate your own cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that can make your soup grainy and prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Constant Whisking: When making the roux and adding liquids, whisk constantly. This prevents lumps and ensures a silky, creamy texture.
- Low Heat for Cheese: Reduce the heat to very low before adding the cheese. High heat can cause the cheese to separate, resulting in an oily or grainy soup. Add it gradually for the smoothest melt.
- Achieving Smoothness: For a super smooth Broccoli Cheese Soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend some or all of the soup after the vegetables are tender.
- Reheating Leftovers: Reheat leftover soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid high heat to prevent separation. A splash of milk or broth can help restore its original consistency.
- Flavor Boosts: A pinch of nutmeg can enhance the cheesy flavor. For a subtle kick, add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper with the seasonings.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
This Creamy soup is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with other dishes.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or a homemade garlic bread for dipping.
- Homemade Croutons: Garnish with crunchy, homemade croutons for added texture.
- Side Salads: A fresh, crisp side salad makes for a balanced and complete meal.
- Sandwiches: Pair a bowl of soup with a classic sandwich or a grilled cheese for a nostalgic meal.
Variations
- Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup base for a little heat.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, cauliflower florets, or chopped bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Protein Boost: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken, crispy turkey bacon bits, or diced chicken sausage for a heartier meal.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with vegan butter, whole milk with unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or oat), and use a high-quality vegan cheddar cheese for a dairy-free Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add a little more flour to your roux or blend a larger portion of the soup with an immersion blender.
Nutrition Information
Please note that the following nutrition information for this soup is an estimated value based on the provided ingredients and preparation. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands and portion sizes.
This hearty soup provides a good source of vitamins, particularly Vitamin C from the broccoli, and calcium from the cheese and milk. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a warm, comforting meal that is both flavorful and nourishing.
| Nutrient | Estimated Value (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Protein | 15-20 g |
| Fat | 25-30 g |
| Carbs | 15-20 g |
| Fiber | 3-5 g |
| Vitamin C | 70-80% DV |
| Calcium | 30-40% DV |
FAQ
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Broccoli Cheddar Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just reheat gently.
How long does broccoli cheddar soup last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, your soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze broccoli cheddar soup?
Freezing is generally not recommended for creamy, cheese-based soups as the dairy can separate and become grainy upon thawing.
Why did my soup turn out grainy or separated?
This usually happens if the cheese is added to soup that is too hot or if you use pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents. Always grate your own cheese and add it on very low heat.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can! Thaw and drain the frozen broccoli thoroughly before adding it to the soup to prevent excess water from thinning the broth.
Is this recipe vegetarian/gluten-free?
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is naturally vegetarian when using vegetable broth. To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the roux.
Conclusion
This creamy, cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is truly a comforting classic that’s easy to master at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a bowl of deliciousness that rivals any restaurant version. We encourage you to try this heartwarming recipe for your next chilly day or family dinner. Don’t forget to share your experience or any creative variations you discover; we love hearing from you!
The Best Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Whisk
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion chopped
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic chopped
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 3 cups broccoli florets chopped
- 1 large carrot julienned or finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese about 2 heaping cups
- Homemade croutons for serving, optional
Instructions
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot, then sauté onion with salt and pepper until softened. Stir in garlic, then whisk in flour until golden before slowly incorporating milk.
- Combine broth, broccoli, carrot, and mustard, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese gradually until melted and the soup is creamy. Season to taste and serve with optional croutons.