After a long week filled with takeout and rushed meals, I found myself craving something comforting and homemade. That’s when I decided to whip up a warm pot of Broccoli Cheese Soup—a bowl of pure joy that feels like a hug on a chilly evening. The vibrant green of fresh broccoli mingling with creamy cheese creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate, reminding you that wholesome food doesn’t have to be complicated.
This recipe is perfect for those moments when you want to impress without the stress. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have a luscious soup ready in just 20 minutes. The sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully, enveloping each tender broccoli floret in cheesy goodness, while the rich blend of butter and garlic fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re looking to nourish your family or treat yourself, this soup is a delightful reinvention of what comfort food should be—delicious, satisfying, and entirely homemade. Ready to dive in? Let’s make some Broccoli Cheese Soup!
Why is Broccoli Cheese Soup so comforting?
Savor the warmth: This creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup is like a cozy blanket for your soul, perfect for chilly nights.
Quick and Easy: With a simple prep and cook time of just 20 minutes, you can enjoy wholesome comfort without hours in the kitchen.
Kid-Friendly Goodness: The cheesy flavor hides nutritious broccoli, making it a stellar choice for picky eaters.
Versatile Ingredient List: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize it for your tastes!
Perfect for Leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully, so you can always have a tasty homemade meal on hand.
If you’re all about simple yet hearty bowls, you’ll want to check out our Simple Vegetable Soup for another comforting dish!
Broccoli Cheese Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Butter – adds richness and helps create a flavorful base.
- Yellow onion – finely chopped, it brings a sweet aroma as it caramelizes.
- Garlic – minced, this ingredient infuses your soup with a delightful savory kick.
- All-purpose flour – thickens the soup and creates a creamy texture.
For the Creamy Blend
- Whole milk – gives a luscious creaminess that complements the cheese perfectly.
- Chicken broth or vegetable broth – enhances flavor while maintaining a rich base for the soup.
- Broccoli florets – fresh or frozen, provide that vibrant green and nutritious element.
- Shredded carrots (optional) – add a subtle sweetness and a pop of color if desired.
For the Cheesy Finish
- Sharp cheddar cheese – freshly grated for the best melt and bold flavor.
- Heavy cream – enriches the soup, making it extra indulgent.
- Salt and black pepper – to taste, these spices elevate all the wonderful flavors in your Broccoli Cheese Soup!
Feel ready to create this comfort classic? Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup
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Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
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Make the Roux: Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste, ensuring a smooth base.
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Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
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Incorporate Vegetables: Add the broccoli florets and shredded carrots (if using). Simmer for 6–7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and vibrant green.
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Cheese It Up: Lower the heat and gradually stir in the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add in the heavy cream and stir to combine for ultimate creaminess.
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Season to Taste: Taste your soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed, adjusting flavors to your preference.
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Serve Warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired for an inviting touch.
Optional: Top with croutons for added texture!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Broccoli Cheese Soup
Cheese Quality Matters: Use freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it may contain anti-caking agents that inhibit meltability.
Avoid Lumps: When making the roux, ensure to stir constantly. This helps prevent lumps and achieves a silky texture in your Broccoli Cheese Soup.
Broccoli Prep: If using fresh broccoli, cut florets into small, even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly and enhance flavor absorption in the soup.
Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a little more flour or reducing the liquid. For a thinner consistency, simply add more broth or milk.
Season Gradually: Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, tasting as you go. This way, you can easily achieve the perfect balance in your delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup!
Make Ahead Options
Making Broccoli Cheese Soup ahead of time can simplify your weeknight dinners and keep the comforting vibes flowing. You can chop your broccoli florets and onion up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consider preparing the roux (butter, flour, and cooked onion and garlic) up to 24 hours prior and refrigerate it covered. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, just whisk in the milk and broth, add the prepped vegetables, and follow the remaining steps. This method ensures your soup tastes just as delicious and fresh, making your meal prep seamless and stress-free!
Broccoli Cheese Soup Variations
Feel free to explore new dimensions of flavor and nutrition with these creative twists!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or oat milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative for a coconut-friendly version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to infuse some heat into your comforting bowl.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in additional vegetables like cauliflower or spinach for extra nutrients and a touch of color.
- Vegan Delight: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and nutritional yeast in place of cheese for a vegan-friendly option.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or dill during cooking to elevate the soup’s aroma and refresh its taste.
- Smoky Flavor: Stir in a touch of smoked paprika or use smoked cheese for a unique, rich flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Creamy Swap: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a richer and aromatic variation that’s a real treat!
- Crunchy Toppers: Serve with crispy bacon bits or roasted chickpeas for a delightful textural contrast that adds a savory punch.
What to Serve with Broccoli Cheese Soup?
Looking to create a delightful spread that complements the creamy goodness of your soup?
- Crusty Bread: This is the perfect match! A rustic loaf will soak up every delicious drop, making every bite a delight.
- Garlic Toast: Crunchy and fragrant, garlic toast adds a burst of flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the rich soup.
- Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess, offering a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized sweetness of roasted veggies adds depth and a satisfying texture to your meal.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy and soft, they serve as a hearty side—top with extra cheese and chives for a fun twist!
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, fruity treat provides a sweet contrast to your savory soup, rounding out the meal perfectly.
- Herbal Iced Tea: Light and refreshing, this drink adds a herbal note that perfectly balances the richness of the cheese.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: For a fizzy touch, this drink cleanses the palate and rejuvenates the senses between bites.
How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Cheese Soup
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave space at the top of the container, as it will expand when frozen.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk for creaminess if needed.
Avoid Separation: When freezing Broccoli Cheese Soup, be aware that the cream may separate upon reheating. Stir well to bring back the delicious, creamy texture!
Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe broccoli for this soup?
When choosing broccoli, look for bright green florets that are tightly packed together. Avoid any heads that have yellowing or dark spots all over, as these indicate older, less fresh broccoli. Consider using frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available; just make sure it’s thawed and drained before adding to the soup.
What is the best way to store leftover Broccoli Cheese Soup?
Absolutely! To store your leftover soup, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just let it cool to room temperature before sealing it in a freezer-safe container to maintain quality and flavor.
Can I freeze Broccoli Cheese Soup? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Broccoli Cheese Soup! Simply ladle the cooled soup into airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to leave about an inch of space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove over low heat, stirring gently. Add a splash of milk or another cream to restore its original texture if needed.
What should I do if my soup is too thick or too thin?
If your soup turns out too thick, simply stir in a bit more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. For a thinner soup, you can add about ¼ cup at a time, stirring as you go. If it’s too thin, you can easily thicken it by creating a mix of cornstarch and cold water, then adding that to the simmering soup while stirring until it thickens.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you’re making this soup for someone with allergies or dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt it. For a vegetarian option, just use vegetable broth and ensure that the cheese contains no animal rennet. Additionally, if someone is lactose intolerant, try substituting with lactose-free milk and cheese alternatives. Always taste as you go to ensure the flavors balance nicely in your creamy masterpiece!
Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup That'll Warm Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in the whole milk and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets and shredded carrots (if using). Simmer for 6-7 minutes, or until tender and vibrant green.
- Lower the heat and gradually stir in the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
