This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm hug in a bowl. Packed with tender broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, it’s comfort food that’s hard to resist!
I love how quick it comes together—just sauté, simmer, and blend! Perfect for chilly days when you need something cozy and satisfying. 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is best for texture and flavor. You can use frozen if needed—just reduce cooking time a bit. Another option is to add cauliflower for a different twist!
Onion: Yellow onion adds a sweet base, but you can use white or red onions if that’s what you have. Shallots are a nice substitute for a milder flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, but if you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but feel free to mix it with mild cheddar or Jack cheese for a creamier texture. Vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free version.
Half-and-Half or Milk: Half-and-half makes the soup rich, but whole milk works too. For a lighter option, go with low-fat milk. For a dairy-free soup, use almond or oat milk, but check for flavor variations.
How Do I Get the Perfect Consistency for My Soup?
Getting the right consistency for your Broccoli Cheddar Soup is key. To achieve a creamy texture, you’ll want to puree part of the soup while leaving some chunks for extra bite. Here’s how to do it:
- Blend about half of the soup using an immersion blender directly in the pot for ease.
- If you don’t have one, carefully transfer half to a regular blender, puree it, then return it to the pot.
- Adjust the blending time to your liking—some prefer a mostly smooth soup, while others enjoy a chunkier texture.
Don’t forget to stir in your cheese slowly over low heat for a nice creamy finish! Happy cooking!
Delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg
For Serving:
- Toasted bread or croutons
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup will take about 40 minutes total: 10 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for cooking. This means you can enjoy a cozy meal without too much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
2. Create a Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the mixture of cooked onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes. This step cooks out the raw taste of the flour and helps thicken the soup.
3. Add Liquid:
Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure the mixture is smooth. Then, pour in the half-and-half or whole milk, whisking continuously.
4. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally. Let it cook until it thickens slightly, which will take about 5 minutes.
5. Add Broccoli:
Now, add in the chopped broccoli florets. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 5–7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still a vibrant green.
6. Blend for Consistency:
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup to your desired consistency. If you don’t have one, you can carefully transfer roughly half of the soup to a blender to blend and then return it back to the pot. Decide if you’d like it mostly smooth or with some chunky bits for texture.
7. Stir in Cheese:
Turn your heat to low and gently stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely and the soup is creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and if you like, a pinch of nutmeg for a little extra warmth.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Serve warm alongside toasted bread or croutons. Enjoy your delicious, creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup!
This makes for a fantastic meal on chilly days or simply when you’re craving something warm and comforting. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Soup?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe! Just keep in mind that you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly, as frozen broccoli tends to soften faster than fresh. Add it in when the soup is simmering and adjust until tender.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make this soup dairy-free, substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Use vegan cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a lighter version!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats through evenly.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add carrots, celery, or even potatoes to the soup for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them small and add them in with the broccoli to cook through. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite veggies!