This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting, hearty dish that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Loaded with tender broccoli, aromatic vegetables, rich dairy, and plenty of cheddar cheese, it’s the kind of cozy meal that works perfectly for an easy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is rich, creamy, and full of classic flavors everyone loves. It’s made in one pot, requires no special equipment, and is ready in about half an hour. The balance of vegetables and cheese makes it satisfying without being complicated, and it’s easy to customize to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
¼ cup unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, peeled and finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground mustard
¼ teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 cup evaporated milk or whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into small pieces (about 250 grams)
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Directions
Melt the butter in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped onion and carrot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, ground mustard, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, milk, and cream, stirring constantly. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken.
Add the broccoli florets, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and continue stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: about 30 minutes
Variations
For a smoother texture, blend part or all of the soup using an immersion blender once the broccoli is tender.
Add extra vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower, or bell peppers for more body and flavor.
Use a mix of cheeses such as cheddar and mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a slightly different taste.
For added protein, stir in cooked shredded chicken near the end of cooking.
Storage/Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened.
This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly, stirring well to restore its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Add it directly to the soup and simmer until tender.
Why is my soup too thick?
The soup naturally thickens as it cools. Simply add more milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
You can replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, adjusting the amount as needed.
What type of cheese melts best?
Sharp cheddar melts well and provides strong flavor. Shredding your own cheese helps it melt smoothly.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup is great for meal prep and reheats well over the next few days.
Is it possible to make this soup lighter?
You can use low-fat milk instead of cream, though the soup will be slightly less rich.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Lower the heat before adding the cheese and stir slowly until melted.
Can I blend the entire soup?
Yes, blending the whole soup creates a very smooth and creamy consistency.
What can I serve with broccoli cheddar soup?
It pairs well with bread, rolls, or a simple side salad.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles easily. Use a large pot and allow a bit more time for heating.
Conclusion
This broccoli cheddar soup is a timeless comfort food that’s easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. With simple ingredients, flexible options, and rich, creamy flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again for cozy meals at home.
