On a brisk evening when the chill lingers longer than I’d like, I find myself drawn to the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a simple and speedy solution that turns fresh broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese into a nourishing masterpiece. As I chop and stir, the warmth of the butter melting into the onions fills the kitchen, making every corner of my home smell inviting and cozy. Besides being a delightful crowd-pleaser, this creamy soup is easily adaptable, whether you’re sticking to vegetarian ingredients or exploring vegan variations. Ready to transform your dinner into a bowl of comforting goodness? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together! Why is Broccoli Cheddar Soup a Must-Try? Comforting, this soup wraps you in warmth, making it perfect for chilly days. Quick and easy, you’ll whip it up in no time, even on busy weeknights. Flavorful and creamy, the rich cheese melds beautifully with fresh broccoli, creating a delicious balance. With endless variations, it’s versatile enough for everyone, whether you prefer classic, vegan, or gluten-free options. Plus, it’s a satisfying dish that pleases any crowd, ensuring that everyone leaves the table happy! For tips on making the most of this dish, be sure to check out our guide on easy soup variations. Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients Dive into the deliciousness of homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup with these ingredients! For the Base Butter – Creates a rich base for the soup; substitute with olive oil or vegan margarine for a plant-based version. Onion – Provides aromatic depth and sweetness; can be swapped with shallots for a milder flavor. Garlic – Adds savory flavor; minced fresh garlic works best. Flour – Used for thickening the soup via a roux; gluten-free all-purpose flour is a perfect substitute. For the Soup Broth (chicken or vegetable) – Forms the soup’s liquid base; choose low-sodium for a healthier option. Broccoli florets – The main ingredient, providing nutrition and texture; fresh or frozen broccoli works, just thaw if using frozen. For Creaminess Sharp cheddar cheese – Contributes creaminess and a tangy flavor; vegan cheese or nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free adjustment. Milk or cream – Adds richness; opt for almond milk or coconut cream for a non-dairy alternative. Seasoning & Garnish Salt and pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to taste before serving. Chives or parsley – Offers freshness and color for a lovely garnish. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Broccoli Cheddar Soup Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbling and fragrant. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 5-7 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and tender. The aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Step 2: Create the Roux Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour to the butter mixture, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. Stir continuously until the mixture turns golden brown and develops a nutty fragrance. This roux will thicken your soup, creating that indulgent, creamy texture we love in Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Step 3: Add the Broth and Broccoli Gradually pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth while whisking to eliminate any lumps. Once fully incorporated, add 4 cups of chopped broccoli florets. Increase the heat to bring everything to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 10-12 minutes or until the broccoli is tender and vibrant green. Step 4: Blend for Creaminess Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches your desired creaminess, but leave some broccoli pieces for texture. This will take around 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer part of the soup to a blender and pulse until smooth, then return it to the pot for that delightful contrast in the Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Step 5: Melt in the Cheese Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of milk or cream. Mix continuously until the cheese is completely melted and integrated, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Watch for that luscious, creamy consistency—your Broccoli Cheddar Soup is coming together beautifully! Step 6: Season and Serve Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, stirring to combine. Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld. Ladle the creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving. How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup Fridge: Store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup prior to adding dairy ingredients. Use freezer-safe containers and enjoy it within 3 months for best quality. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove, adding freshly grated cheese and milk or cream to restore creaminess. Room Temperature: Avoid keeping the soup at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Broccoli Cheddar Soup Variations & Substitutions Let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this delightful soup to suit your taste and dietary needs! Vegan Version: Swap the sharp cheddar cheese for nutritional yeast and use almond milk for a rich, dairy-free experience. You’ll still get that cheesy flavor without the cheese! Gluten-Free Twist: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour when creating the roux. This ensures the soup remains thick and satisfying for gluten-sensitive family members. Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots, cauliflower, or zucchini for added nutrition and vibrant color. This not only enhances flavor but packs in even more wholesome goodness! Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for warmth. If you dare, throw in chopped jalapeños to liven it up! Each bite becomes a delightful surprise. Creamy Coconut: Replace milk or cream with full-fat coconut milk for a tropical twist and a slightly sweet finish. This is perfect if you’re after an indulgent yet dairy-free option. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile. Each cheese brings a different character to your Broccoli Cheddar Soup! Herbed Delight: Stir in fresh herbs, like thyme or dill, during the simmering stage for aromatic undertones. This simple adjustment elevates the overall flavor beautifully. Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky depth that complements the creaminess of the soup. It adds a rich layer that will surprise and delight your taste buds! With these variations, your Broccoli Cheddar Soup will always feel fresh and exciting. Whether adjusting for dietary preferences or just for fun, you’ll be embracing a world of delightful flavors! For more tips on enhancing your soup experience, check out our guide on easy soup variations. What to Serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup? Indulging in a warm bowl of creamy soup is only the beginning of a cozy meal experience. Let’s elevate this delightful dish into a delicious dinner spread. Crusty Bread: The perfect companion for dipping, it soaks up every drop of the rich soup while adding a satisfying crunch. Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls offer a comforting contrast, making each bite of soup even more enjoyable as you savor the flavors. Caesar Salad: The crisp, tangy greens of a Caesar salad refresh the palate, balancing the rich creaminess of the soup. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a comforting classic, nothing beats a gooey grilled cheese sandwich alongside your bowl, creating a nostalgic pairing. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned veggies are a delightful side that add earthy flavors and textures to complement the creamy broccoli soup. Apple Crisp: For dessert, the sweetness of apple crisp provides a lovely contrast, finishing the meal on a satisfying note of warmth and sweetness. Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink that can cleanse your palate and lift the flavors of the soup, enhancing the cozy experience. Herbed Rice: Light and fluffy, herbed rice is a wonderful base that takes on the soup’s flavors beautifully, adding nourishment to your meal. Make Ahead Options These Broccoli Cheddar Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the broccoli and sauté the aromatics (onion and garlic) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The soup can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; simply wait to add the cheese and milk until you’re ready to reheat, as this ensures the soup remains creamy and does not separate. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the soup on the stove, stir in the cheese and milk until melted, and enjoy the same comforting taste with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Soup Cheese Timing: Stir in cheese gradually and make sure your soup is off the heat to prevent clumping. This keeps your Broccoli Cheddar Soup velvety smooth. Texture Preference: If you like a chunkier soup, blend only half the mixture. This provides a delightful contrast between creamy and textured broccoli. Storage Savvy: Make this Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time; it stores well in the fridge for 3 days or freezes beautifully without dairy. Add milk and cheese when reheating for freshness. Flavor Boost: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or crushed red pepper for a unique twist. Just a pinch can elevate your Broccoli Cheddar Soup to new heights! Ingredient Swap: Feel free to incorporate other veggies such as cauliflower or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. You can also try different cheeses for personalization. Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs What is the best way to choose broccoli for the soup? Absolutely! Look for fresh broccoli with vibrant green florets and firm stalks; avoid any with yellowing or dark spots. If you opt for frozen, ensure it’s completely thawed and drained before adding it to the soup to maintain texture. How should I store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup? After letting the soup cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat on the stovetop rather than the microwave to keep the creamy consistency! Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup? Very! To freeze, prepare the soup without dairy and let it cool. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, then store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat, adding fresh cheese and cream for creamy goodness. What if my soup is too thick after cooking? No worries! If you find your soup is thicker than desired, simply stir in additional broth or milk, a little at a time, until it reaches your preferred consistency. Just be sure to warm it gently to blend everything nicely without boiling. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Most definitely! This Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be adapted for various dietary needs. Use dairy-free cheese and almond milk for a vegan version, and check the brand of vegetable broth for any allergens. Always taste and adjust seasonings accordingly! How do I reheat frozen Broccoli Cheddar Soup without affecting its texture? Absolutely! To reheat, remove the soup from the freezer and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Heat it gently on the stovetop, stirring constantly. Add in fresh cream and cheese once heated through, stirring to create that lovely creamy texture you love! Indulgent Broccoli Cheddar Soup for Cozy Nights In Indulge in this creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, perfect for cozy nights with its comforting flavors and quick preparation. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: SoupsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base4 tablespoons butter or olive oil for vegan option1 medium onion chopped2 cloves garlic minced1/4 cup flour gluten-free option availableFor the Soup4 cups broth chicken or vegetable, low-sodium recommended4 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozenFor Creaminess2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded, or vegan cheese1 cup milk or cream almond milk or coconut cream for non-dairySeasoning & Garnishto taste saltto taste pepperfor garnish chives or parsley Equipment Large Potimmersion blender Method Preparation StepsIn a large pot, melt butter over medium heat until bubbling. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until translucent.Whisk in flour to the butter mixture, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.Gradually pour in broth while whisking to eliminate lumps. Add chopped broccoli florets and bring to a gentle simmer for 10-12 minutes.Using an immersion blender, blend the soup to desired creaminess while leaving some broccoli pieces for texture.Lower heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and milk or cream until melted and integrated.Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then garnish with fresh chives or parsley before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesThis Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for 3 days. Feel free to experiment with spices or additional vegetables for added flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
