Name: Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth; 2 cups whole milk; 2 cups heavy cream (or use all milk for a lighter version); 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped small; 1 large carrot, shredded or julienned; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded; Extra shredded cheddar for topping (optional)

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There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup to warm you from the inside out! This beloved comfort food blends tender broccoli, sweet carrots, and a rich, cheesy broth into a velvety, soul-soothing delight. Whether you’re chasing away the chill on a winter evening or looking for a crowd-pleaser for lunch, this recipe brings restaurant-level coziness right into your own kitchen. Homemade always tastes better, and once you try this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll see why it’s a staple worth mastering.

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is how it transforms a handful of humble ingredients into something truly magical. Each component plays a starring role, from the buttery base to the fresh vegetables and, of course, that irresistible sharp cheddar finish!

Unsalted Butter: The base for a rich, silky roux that ties everything together.
Onion (diced): Adds a sweet, aromatic note that deepens the soup’s flavor.
Garlic (minced): Brings warmth and a savory backbone—don’t skip it!
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for thickening and giving the soup its classic creamy texture.
Low-Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Forms the flavorful liquid foundation; use veggie broth for a vegetarian version.
Whole Milk: Lends a luscious creaminess without making the soup too heavy.
Heavy Cream (or extra milk): For ultra-creamy results, though all milk works for a lighter soup.
Broccoli Florets (chopped small): The star of the show—smaller pieces mean faster, more even cooking.
Carrot (shredded or julienned): Adds a subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
Salt: Brings out the flavors of the veggies and cheese.
Black Pepper: Adds gentle heat and rounds out the taste.
Ground Nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch brings a surprising warmth that highlights the cheese.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese (freshly shredded): The heart of the soup—freshly grated melts best and gives the richest flavor.
Extra Shredded Cheddar (optional): For sprinkling on top, because you can never have too much cheese!

How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start your Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup adventure by melting the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook for four to five minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds—just long enough to fill your kitchen with that unmistakable, mouthwatering aroma.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over your buttery onion-garlic base and stir constantly for one to two minutes. This roux is what will give your soup its signature creamy body. Don’t rush—let it cook just long enough to lose the raw flour taste, but not so long that it browns.

Step 3: Add the Liquids

Slowly whisk in the broth, followed by the milk and cream. Keep the whisk moving to prevent lumps and ensure your soup is smooth. Raise the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently. After about five to seven minutes, the liquid will begin to thicken—this is your cue to move on!

Step 4: Simmer the Veggies

Stir in the chopped broccoli, shredded carrot, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you’re using it. Let the soup simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is perfectly tender. The vegetables will infuse the broth with vivid color and fresh flavor, making this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup as beautiful as it is delicious.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Remove the pot from the heat and gradually stir in the freshly shredded cheddar cheese—a handful at a time. Let each addition melt before adding more, which ensures the soup stays gloriously smooth and silky. Now’s the time to taste and adjust seasoning, if needed.

Step 6: Blend to Your Liking

For a chunkier texture, serve the soup as is. If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup directly in the pot. You can also transfer some to a blender, but be cautious with the hot liquid. This step is totally customizable—make your Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup as rustic or as velvety as you like!

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Garnishes

Finish your Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup with a flourish! A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar on top is a must for cheese lovers, and a scattering of fresh cracked pepper or a few snipped chives adds color and a fresh bite. For extra indulgence, try a dollop of sour cream or a handful of crunchy croutons.

Side Dishes

This soup is dreamy all on its own, but it shines even brighter alongside a few stellar sides. Crusty bread or a hearty baguette is perfect for dunking and soaking up every last drop. A crisp green salad balances out the richness, or serve with a classic grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls—guaranteed to impress guests and soak up all that cheesy goodness. Small ramekins make for elegant starters at a dinner party, or pour the soup into mugs for a cozy, casual snack on the couch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to four days—perfect for quick lunches or effortless weeknight dinners.

Freezing

While the soup can be frozen, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly due to the dairy content. If you do freeze it, allow the soup to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring often. If the soup has thickened, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. Avoid bringing it to a rapid boil, as that can cause the cheese to separate.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just opt for low-sodium vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll have a vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as rich and flavorful.

What kind of cheddar is best for this soup?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup because it melts smoothly and has a bold, tangy flavor that stands out. For extra depth, try a mix of sharp and mild cheddar, or even add a bit of Gruyère.

How do I keep the cheese from clumping?

Always use freshly shredded cheese, which melts more evenly than pre-shredded varieties. Add the cheese gradually off the heat and stir until fully melted before adding more—this prevents clumping and graininess.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works in a pinch! Just chop it into small pieces and add it straight to the pot. You may need to simmer the soup a little longer to ensure the broccoli is tender.

Is it possible to lighten up Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can easily adjust the richness by using all milk instead of milk and heavy cream, or even swap in half-and-half. The soup will still be creamy, just a bit lighter and less decadent.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably special about making your own Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup from scratch—it’s cozy, decadent, and surprisingly easy. I hope this recipe finds its way into your regular rotation and brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share a bowl with someone you love!

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

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4.5 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and delicious homemade recipe, featuring tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich, velvety texture. Perfect for a cozy meal, this American classic is easy to prepare on the stovetop and versatile enough for a lighter or richer version depending on your preference.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Liquid Ingredients

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
2 cups whole milk
2 cups heavy cream (or use all milk for a lighter version)

Vegetables & Seasonings

4 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
1 large carrot, shredded or julienned
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Cheese

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Extra shredded cheddar for topping (optional)

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make Roux and Add Liquids: Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the whole milk and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking frequently until smooth and slightly thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
Add Vegetables and Season: Stir in the chopped broccoli florets, shredded carrot, salt, pepper, and optional ground nutmeg. Allow the soup to simmer gently for 10–15 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant.
Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, mixing well until the cheese is fully melted and the soup turns creamy.
Serve: Serve the soup warm, topped with extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired. Accompany with crusty bread for a hearty meal.

Notes

For a smoother texture, blend part or all of the soup using an immersion blender.
Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melting quality and flavor; pre-shredded cheese may result in a grainy texture.
To make a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with all milk.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to avoid curdling.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American