If there’s a soup that checks every comfort-food box, it’s Broccoli Cheese Soup! Creamy, cheesy, and brimming with tender bites of fresh broccoli, this classic favorite warms you from the inside out. Every spoonful is rich in flavor with the irresistible tang of sharp cheddar and a hint of nutmeg. Whether you’re chasing away a chilly night or just craving something homey and soul-satisfying, it’s no wonder Broccoli Cheese Soup is a beloved staple in so many kitchens!

Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Broccoli Cheese Soup is in its simplicity—each ingredient serves a purpose, building layers of flavor, texture, and that signature creamy yellow-green hue. Here’s what you’ll need, and a quick note on what each one brings to the table:

Unsalted butter: The start of any great soup, butter creates rich flavor and lets you adjust the salt to taste later on.
Small onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth as the aromatic backbone of the soup.
Garlic cloves, minced: A gentle kick of savoriness that makes the soup feel extra cozy.
All-purpose flour: This is the magic thickener—cooked in to create a velvety roux that builds the soup’s creamy body.
Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: The liquid base; use vegetable broth to keep it fully vegetarian.
Whole milk: Key for that lush, creamy texture—don’t skimp on the richness!
Fresh broccoli florets, chopped small: The star ingredient for pops of color, plant-powered nutrition, and bite.
Medium carrot, grated: Adds a hint of sweetness and gorgeous color to brighten things up.
Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors and balancing the cheeseiness.
Black pepper: A gentle spice that enhances complexity without overpowering the soup.
Ground nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch brings warmth and rounds out the cheeses.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Plenty of tang and meltiness for that crave-worthy, gooey finish.

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup

Step 1: Create the Flavorful Base

Start by melting the butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until it turns translucent and fragrant. This mellow sweetness forms the comforting backbone of the soup. Stir in the garlic and let it cook just 30 seconds longer, releasing all its aroma but never letting it burn.

Step 2: Thicken with a Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the buttery onions and garlic. Whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes—this cooks out any raw flour taste and forms a smooth roux that will give your Broccoli Cheese Soup that signature creamy body. Don’t rush this step; a pale golden roux is just right.

Step 3: Add Liquid and Veggies

Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and then the milk, pouring slowly to keep things lump-free and silky. Add the chopped broccoli florets, grated carrot, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir it all together, bring to a gentle simmer, and let those veggies soak up all the flavor for 15 to 20 minutes. By the end, your broccoli should be fully tender and the carrot melted right into the soup.

Step 4: Cheese It Up

Lower the heat and slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar a handful at a time, stirring as it melts into the soup. This keeps the texture super smooth and prevents any clumps. The cheese blends with the enriched broth, creating that gorgeous golden, cheesy finish Broccoli Cheese Soup is famous for!

Step 5: Blend (Or Not)

If you like your soup silky-smooth, hit it with an immersion blender right in the pot until it reaches your desired consistency. Or leave it chunky for bite-sized pieces of broccoli and a bit more rustic charm—it’s all up to your soup mood!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Soup

Garnishes

A steaming bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup is even better when topped with a flourish! Sprinkle on extra shredded cheddar, a handful of crispy croutons, or a swirl of cream for an inviting finish. A pinch of cracked black pepper or even a sprinkle of fresh chives takes it over the top.

Side Dishes

Pair your soup with a slice of hearty sourdough, some crusty French bread, or a warm, pillowy dinner roll for dipping every last drop. For a light side, serve with a crisp green salad dressed with lemony vinaigrette—it balances the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Take things up a notch by serving Broccoli Cheese Soup in a bread bowl for a showstopping presentation. Or ladle it into small mugs or ramekins as part of a soup sampler or appetizer course. For a festive touch, top with tiny roasted broccoli florets or paper-thin carrot ribbons.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Broccoli Cheese Soup cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it keeps well for up to 4 days and the flavors only deepen over time—perfect for next-day lunches or easy weeknight dinners!

Freezing

Broccoli Cheese Soup freezes surprisingly well. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it slowly in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. If it thickens up too much, just add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it back up. Microwave reheating works too—just use a lower power setting and stir every minute or so.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great in Broccoli Cheese Soup. Just toss it straight in (no need to thaw first), and add a few extra minutes of simmering time so it gets perfectly tender.

What’s the best way to prevent the cheese from clumping or getting grainy?

The secret is to add your shredded cheese gradually over low heat and stir as it melts. Avoid letting the soup boil after the cheese goes in—that’s when it can separate or get grainy.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for a measure-for-measure gluten-free flour blend, or use cornstarch mixed with a little cold milk or broth as a thickener. The results are just as creamy and delicious!

Is there a way to make this soup a bit lighter?

Sure! Use low-fat milk in place of whole milk, or cut down the cheese a bit (but just a bit—you still want lots of flavor). The texture will be a little lighter but you’ll keep all the comforting appeal of classic Broccoli Cheese Soup.

How do I make the soup richer and creamier?

For an extra-indulgent Broccoli Cheese Soup, swap in some heavy cream for part of the milk, or stir in a spoonful of cream cheese along with the cheddar for ultimate silkiness.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how easy and satisfying homemade Broccoli Cheese Soup can be, I hope you’ll make it part of your own cozy-night routine. There’s just something irresistible about a bowlful of creamy, cheesy, broccoli-packed goodness—and it’s even better when shared with someone you love. Scoop up a big spoonful and enjoy every last bite!

Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this comforting Broccoli Cheese Soup. Loaded with tender broccoli florets, grated carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup is a satisfying meal on its own or as a starter. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Broth:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

Soup Base:

2 cups whole milk
3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
1 medium carrot, grated
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened. Stir in garlic.
Form Roux: Sprinkle in flour, whisk constantly to form a roux for 1–2 minutes.
Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in broth, then milk until smooth.
Cook Soup: Add broccoli, carrot, seasonings. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until broccoli is tender.
Melt Cheese: Reduce heat, stir in cheese until smooth. Blend for smoother texture if desired. Serve hot.