This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With fresh broccoli and melted cheese, it’s both tasty and comforting—perfect for chilly days.
I love how quick and easy it is to make! Just cook, blend, and enjoy. Add some crusty bread on the side, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key for great texture and taste. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli works well, just cook it a bit longer to ensure it gets tender.
Butter: This adds richness to the soup. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Onion: A small onion adds flavor depth. You can substitute with shallots for a milder taste or leeks for a sweeter profile.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is the star! You can mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack. Vegan cheese can work if you’re looking to keep it plant-based.
Milk: Whole milk gives creaminess, but you can use low-fat milk or a non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) to lighten it up.
How Do You Blend Soup for the Best Texture?
Blending your soup is essential for a creamy texture without losing all the nice broccoli pieces. Remember, the key is to blend just enough to achieve that smoothness while keeping some chunky bits!
- Using an immersion blender is super convenient. Just guide it around the pot to blend it partially.
- If using a traditional blender, let the soup cool slightly first. Fill the blender halfway and blend in batches for safety, as hot soup can splatter.
- Always leave some broccoli bits unblended, as they add nice texture and a burst of flavor.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
- Red pepper flakes for garnish (optional)
- Bread for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious broccoli cheddar soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy option for lunch or dinner. Total time is around 35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Starting with the Base:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they become soft and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful foundation for your soup!
2. Making the Roux:
Next, sprinkle in the flour while stirring constantly. Cook this mixture (roux) for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Keep stirring to avoid it from burning.
3. Adding the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth until the mixture is smooth. Raise the heat slightly and bring it to a gentle simmer. This will form the basis of your soup!
4. Cooking the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets into the simmering broth and cook for about 8-10 minutes. The broccoli should be tender but maintain its vibrant green color. It’s perfect when it still has some bite to it!
5. Blending the Soup:
For that creamy texture, use an immersion blender to blend about half of the soup, leaving some broccoli chunks for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half of the soup to a regular blender, puree it, then return it to the pot.
6. Creamy Addition:
Stir in the milk or half-and-half and heat it gently. Be careful not to bring it to a boil; you just want it warmed through.
7. Cheesy Goodness:
Remove the pot from the heat. Add in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it has melted and combined into the soup. This is the moment all the magic happens—smooth, cheesy deliciousness!
8. Seasoning to Taste:
Season your soup with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you’re using it. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to get your perfect flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Pair with warm crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a cozy, satisfying meal.
This recipe yields a creamy, cheesy broccoli soup that makes every bowl feel like a warm hug. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just add it directly to the pot without thawing, and you may need to cook it a little longer to ensure it’s tender.
How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
You can easily make this soup dairy-free by using plant-based butter, non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk), and a dairy-free cheese substitute. Just make sure to read labels for any added ingredients that may not be vegan!
Can I Customize the Cheese in This Soup?
Yes, feel free to mix and match your cheeses! You can use a combination of cheddar, Gruyère, or even mozzarella for different flavors. Just keep the total amount around 2 cups for the best consistency.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it gently on the stove. Just add a splash of milk if it thickens too much in the fridge!