Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe: Creamy, Comforting, and Delicious
If you’re searching for the best broccoli cheddar soup recipe, you’ve come to the right place! This creamy, cheesy soup is a classic comfort food favorite that’s easy to make and perfect for any season. Whether you want a cozy meal on a chilly day or a healthy option that kids will love, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
In this article, you’ll find a complete, step-by-step guide to making the richest, creamiest broccoli cheddar soup, along with helpful tips for customizing the recipe to your taste. Let’s dive in!
Why This Is the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Broccoli cheddar soup might sound simple, but getting the perfect balance of creamy cheese and fresh broccoli takes a little know-how. What makes this the best broccoli cheddar soup recipe?
- Rich and creamy texture without being too heavy
- Fresh broccoli that’s tender but not mushy
- Sharp cheddar cheese that melts perfectly and adds depth of flavor
- Made from scratch with simple ingredients you can find anywhere
- Easily adaptable for vegetarian or gluten-free diets
Unlike some soups that are watery or overly thick, this recipe strikes the perfect harmony between flavor and texture. Plus, it’s made with wholesome ingredients — no canned soups or processed cheese sauces here!
Ingredients for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Before you start cooking, gather these fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for about 6 servings:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (preferably aged cheddar)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor depth)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional, for subtle warmth)
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, enhances creaminess)
Equipment Needed
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Whisk
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or immersion blender (optional, for smooth texture)
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly. Cut the broccoli head into small florets and chop the stalk into small pieces — don’t throw away the stalks, as they add flavor and nutrients!
Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In your large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until translucent and soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the butter and onion mixture. Stir constantly with a whisk to combine and cook for about 2 minutes. This helps remove the raw flour taste and thickens the soup later.
4. Add the Broth and Milk
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Then add the milk or half-and-half. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring often, until the soup thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Cook the Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets and stalks to the pot. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
6. Blend the Soup (Optional)
For a creamier, smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree half or all of the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, transfer part of the soup to a blender, blend, and return it to the pot. If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step.
7. Add the Cheese and Seasonings
Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Stir in the Dijon mustard (if using), nutmeg, salt, pepper, and cayenne or smoked paprika to taste.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Serve Hot
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, or croutons if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Use sharp cheddar cheese: Mild cheddar won’t give you that classic bold flavor. Aged cheddar melts well and adds richness.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: You want it tender but still vibrant green for texture and color.
- Avoid processed cheese or pre-made cheese sauces: Real cheese makes a huge difference in flavor and texture.
- Adjust thickness: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk. If too thin, cook a bit longer to reduce.
- Add cream for extra richness: Substitute half the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Variations of Broccoli Cheddar Soup to Try
- Vegan version: Use plant-based milk, vegetable broth, and vegan cheese. Add nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Loaded soup: Add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Cheesy crust: Serve with toasted bread topped with melted cheddar for dipping.
How to Store and Reheat Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Broccoli cheddar soup is perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the cheese from separating. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the soup if it thickens too much.
You can also freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works well and can save prep time. Just add it directly to the soup during the simmering step and cook until tender.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
How can I make this soup thicker?
Make sure to cook the roux (butter + flour) well and let the soup simmer long enough to thicken. You can also add a bit more flour mixed with cold milk before cooking.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
This best broccoli cheddar soup recipe delivers creamy, cheesy, comforting flavors with wholesome ingredients. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve guests. With fresh broccoli, rich cheddar, and a velvety texture, it’s the ultimate bowl of warmth and happiness.
Try it out this week and enjoy a timeless classic that your whole family will love!
Printable Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups milk or half-and-half
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch cayenne or smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté onion and garlic in butter until soft.
- Stir in flour, cook 2 mins.
- Slowly whisk in broth and milk, simmer until thick.
- Add broccoli, cook 10-15 mins until tender.
- Blend half if desired.
- Stir in cheese, mustard, and seasonings.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
