Few dishes are as comforting and satisfying as a warm bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This classic soup combines tender broccoli, creamy cheddar cheese, and aromatic seasonings to create a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a cozy lunch, a light dinner, or a starter for a special meal, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
In this guide, we’ll take you through a foolproof Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe, along with tips for achieving the perfect creamy texture, creative variations, and answers to common questions. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to make a comforting bowl of soup that tastes just as good as it looks.
Why You’ll Love Broccoli Cheddar Soup
1. Creamy and Flavorful
The combination of sharp cheddar and tender broccoli makes this soup a rich and indulgent treat.
2. Quick and Easy
You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to make this delicious soup. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it comes together in under 30 minutes.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether served in bread bowls, alongside sandwiches, or on its own, Broccoli Cheddar Soup is versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or even a holiday meal.
For more creamy recipes, try this Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecake recipe to complement your meal with a decadent dessert.
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
For the Soup:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 2 cups whole milk or heavy cream
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Croutons
- Chopped parsley
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
1. Sauté Aromatics
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable stock while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add the milk or cream and whisk until smooth.
3. Add Broccoli and Carrots
- Stir in the chopped broccoli and shredded carrots.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
4. Blend for Creaminess
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup partially, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender and blend until smooth before returning it to the pot.
5. Add Cheddar Cheese
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, allowing it to melt completely before adding more.
- Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra cheddar cheese, croutons, or chopped parsley.
- Serve with crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or in a bread bowl for an extra treat.
Looking for the perfect side dish? Pair your soup with these irresistible garlic breadsticks for a delicious meal.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
1. Choose Fresh Ingredients
Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheddar cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
2. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli
Simmer the broccoli until just tender to maintain its vibrant color and flavor.
3. Add Cheese Gradually
Adding cheese slowly prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy soup.
Creative Variations of Broccoli Cheddar Soup
1. Spicy Cheddar Soup
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
2. Bacon Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Top your soup with crispy bacon bits for added smokiness and crunch.
3. Dairy-Free Option
Substitute the butter with olive oil, the milk with almond or coconut milk, and the cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
4. Extra Vegetables
Add cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutritional value of your soup.
Perfect Pairings
Serve your Broccoli Cheddar Soup with these complementary sides for a satisfying meal:
- Bread Bowls: A classic pairing that turns your soup into an indulgent treat.
- Salad: A crisp garden salad or Caesar salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup, but it’s best to omit the cheese and add it fresh when reheating. Dairy-based soups may separate when frozen, so blending before reheating can help restore the texture.
2. How do I thicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
If your soup is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the soup and simmer until thickened.
3. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen broccoli cooks faster than fresh.
4. What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar cheese is the classic choice, but you can experiment with gouda, gruyere, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and simple preparation make it a favorite for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to different dietary needs and preferences.
For another hearty and flavorful dish, try this Shrimp Creole recipe for a Southern twist on comfort food.
Conclusion
Whether you’re craving a warm, hearty meal or looking to impress your guests, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is sure to deliver. With its creamy base, tender broccoli, and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and easy to prepare.
Gather your ingredients, follow this guide, and enjoy a bowl of soup that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Pair it with your favorite sides, and savor the ultimate cozy meal. Happy cooking!