Name: Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped; 1 cup shredded carrots; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Pinch of nutmeg

Creamy, cheesy, and filled with tender broccoli florets, Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re curled up on a cold day or looking for a rich and satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up, this soup delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. It’s perfect as a hearty lunch, a cozy dinner, or a starter that sets the tone for a comforting meal.

This homemade version tastes even better than what you’d get at a restaurant. With real, wholesome ingredients and no preservatives, you can enjoy a velvety texture and cheesy depth that feels indulgent, yet is incredibly simple to prepare. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies while still feeling like you’re treating yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Rich and Creamy: Made with real cheddar and a creamy base that’s silky smooth.
Fast and Simple: Comes together in about 30 minutes.
Wholesome: Packed with fresh broccoli and carrots.
Freezer-Friendly: Great for batch cooking and reheating.
Customizable: Easily make it vegetarian or low-carb.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into making this comforting soup, having the right tools will make things easier and quicker:

Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven: Essential for evenly cooking the soup and holding all the ingredients without overflowing.
Sharp Knife: Needed for chopping broccoli florets and grating carrots finely.
Box Grater or Food Processor: Helps you get fine shreds of cheese and carrots for a smoother consistency.
Whisk: Key for making the roux and ensuring the soup base is lump-free.
Ladle: Makes serving easy without spilling.

Having these basics ready will streamline your process and leave you with fewer dishes to clean up.

Ingredients for the Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Every ingredient in this Broccoli Cheddar Soup plays a role in building its creamy texture and full-bodied flavor:

Fresh Broccoli: The star of the dish, bringing color, nutrients, and a tender bite.
Shredded Carrots: Add a touch of sweetness and vibrant orange color.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Delivers the bold, tangy flavor that balances the creaminess.
Butter: Forms the base of the roux and gives the soup its rich mouthfeel.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the soup to a velvety consistency.
Milk & Heavy Cream: A duo that creates the silky, creamy texture.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Infuses depth into the soup without overpowering the cheese.
Onion: Sautéed to create a savory base.
Garlic: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor boost.
Salt, Pepper & a pinch of Nutmeg: Seasonings that round out the soup with warmth and balance.

How To Make the Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This forms the thickening base of the soup.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Broth

Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking. Continue to stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Broth and Veggies

Stir in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the chopped broccoli and shredded carrots. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Lower the heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.

Step 6: Blend (Optional)

For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, or transfer half to a blender, then return it to the pot.

How to Serve and Store Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This soup is at its best served hot, straight from the pot. Ladle it into bowls and pair with a crusty baguette, homemade garlic bread, or even a sourdough bread bowl for extra comfort. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a dash of cracked black pepper on top adds a finishing touch.

For storage, let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Just add it directly to the pot—no need to thaw. It may be slightly softer than fresh broccoli.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is the most flavorful and melts beautifully, but you can mix in mild cheddar or even white cheddar for variety.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux or substitute with cornstarch as a thickener.

Why did my soup turn grainy?

Graininess usually comes from overheating the cheese. Always melt cheese over low heat and stir constantly.

Is it okay to blend the whole soup?

Yes, if you prefer a silky smooth texture. An immersion blender makes it easy to blend right in the pot.

Want More Soup Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll definitely want to try these other comforting bowls:

Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup for a spicy and savory fusion.
Hearty Italian Sausage Soup with rich tomato broth and bold flavors.
Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Spinach Tortellini that doubles as soup and pasta delight.
Authentic Tom Kha Gai Soup with tangy coconut and lime flavors.
Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque for a creamy, coastal escape in a bowl.

Save This Pin For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you blend it smooth or keep it chunky? Did you go all-in with the cheese or keep it lighter?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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