If you are searching for a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh broccoli and sweet carrots, making every spoonful a delicious balance of nutrition and indulgence. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or want a quick and satisfying lunch, this soup brings together simple ingredients to create a rich, velvety texture and bold flavor that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe plays a crucial role in building its rich and delightful flavor. From the butter that adds silkiness, to the sharp cheddar that brings that signature cheesy punch, every item is simple yet essential.
- Butter: Provides a smooth base and enhances the overall richness of the soup.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Softens and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the cheese perfectly.
- Garlic, minced: Adds a warm, aromatic depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the soup to a luscious consistency, creating a comforting mouthfeel.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Builds the savory foundation and balances the creaminess.
- Half-and-half or whole milk: Keeps the soup creamy without being too heavy.
- Fresh broccoli florets, chopped: Delivers that fresh crunch and bright green color, packed with nutrients.
- Grated carrots: Adds natural sweetness and a lovely vibrant touch.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient bringing tangy, melty goodness with every bite.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth and depth, enhancing the cheesy flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that wakes up all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by melting the butter over medium heat in a large pot. Toss in the finely chopped onion and allow it to cook slowly until it turns soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. This gentle sauté lets out the onion’s natural sweetness, setting a flavorful base. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just long enough to release its fragrance without burning it.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the onion and garlic mixture. Whisk it continuously for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to cook out the raw flour taste while forming a roux—a thickening base that gives the soup its gorgeous creamy texture.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Simmer
Now, slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking vigorously to avoid any lumps. Stir in the half-and-half or whole milk, combining everything into a smooth mixture. Bring this to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the soup starts to thicken nicely, signaling it’s ready for the next flavorful additions.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Stir in the chopped broccoli and grated carrots, then allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 10 to 12 minutes. This step ensures the vegetables become tender while maintaining just the right amount of bite to keep the texture interesting and fresh.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Lower the heat to a gentle warmth and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese in small handfuls. Stir continuously, allowing each addition to melt fully into the soup before adding more. This slow incorporation prevents the cheese from clumping and creates that luscious, smooth consistency we all crave.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Blend
Finish by sprinkling in the ground nutmeg, then season with salt and pepper to taste. For a creamier, velvety soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup to your liking—whether you prefer it silky smooth or with delightful chunks of broccoli, the choice is yours. Serve the soup piping hot and watch it disappear.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple toppings can take your Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe to the next level visually and flavor-wise. Think crisp croutons for crunch, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese for an ooey-gooey finish, or a dash of freshly cracked black pepper. A swirl of sour cream or a few fresh herbs like chives or parsley also add freshness and a pop of color that makes every bowl inviting.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with classic comfort sides. Think crusty artisan bread fresh from the oven or buttery garlic toast perfect for dipping. A crisp, light salad can offer a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the soup. Even a simple grilled cheese sandwich turns this lunch into an unforgettable, indulgent experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress family or guests, serve this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic touch. You can also portion the soup into small cups as appetizers or present it layered with crumbled bacon and caramelized onions on top in clear glass mugs to showcase the vibrant colors and textures. Presentation adds an extra sprinkle of joy to your meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got some soup left? Let it cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making easy reheat-and-eat meals a breeze.
Freezing
This Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe freezes well, but for best results, omit or reduce the cheese before freezing since cheese can alter texture when frozen and thawed. Freeze the soup in portions inside freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, reheat the soup slowly over low to medium heat, stirring often to prevent sticking or separation. Adding a splash of milk or broth while reheating can help restore creaminess if it has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and you’ll still get that rich, hearty flavor that complements the cheese and veggies perfectly.
What type of cheese works best in this soup?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for its tangy, robust flavor and excellent melting properties. Mixing in Monterey Jack or Colby can add a creamier, milder twist.
Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup, keeping that same velvety texture without gluten.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
You can, and it will still taste delicious! Just add the frozen broccoli a bit earlier in the simmering process to ensure it cooks through properly.
How can I make this soup creamier without adding heavy cream?
Using half-and-half or whole milk as in the recipe already provides creaminess. If you want it even richer, a splash of sour cream or cream cheese stirred in at the end can add a nice creamy touch without heavy cream.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of homemade broccoli cheese soup that warms your soul and fills you with comfort. This Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is simple enough for a weekday meal but special enough to share with family and friends. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do eating it—grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
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Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheese Soup combines tender fresh broccoli, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and a smooth roux-based broth for a hearty and flavorful meal. Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner, this soup is easy to make on the stovetop and can be adjusted to be vegetarian by opting for vegetable broth.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup grated carrots
Cheese & Seasoning
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Cook Onion: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
- Add Broth and Milk: Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth to avoid lumps. Stir in the half-and-half or whole milk and combine well.
- Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Add Vegetables: Introduce the chopped broccoli and grated carrots to the pot and simmer uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Lower the heat to low. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted. Stir in the ground nutmeg, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional Blending: For a smoother texture, partially blend the soup using an immersion blender. Alternatively, leave it chunky as preferred.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately for best flavor and comfort.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- You can substitute cheddar with a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a milder flavor.
- To make this soup vegetarian, be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
