Name: Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 2 cups whole milk (or half & half); 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped; 1 cup shredded carrots (optional); 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting, cozy classic that blends tender broccoli, shredded carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese in a rich, velvety broth. Made in just one pot, it’s the perfect dish for chilly evenings, quick weeknight dinners, or anytime you need a bowl of soul-warming comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Soup offers everything you want in a comforting meal: a creamy texture, bold cheese flavor, and hearty vegetables all wrapped into one satisfying bowl. It’s quick to make, customizable, and ideal for pairing with crusty bread or serving in a bread bowl. Whether you’re after a simple lunch or an easy vegetarian dinner, this one-pot wonder is always a crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

butter
onion, diced
garlic, minced
all-purpose flour
vegetable or chicken broth
whole milk (or half & half)
broccoli florets, chopped
shredded carrots (optional)
sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
salt and black pepper
pinch of nutmeg (optional)

directions

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in the broth, followed by the milk, stirring until smooth.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the broccoli and carrots (if using). Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup, depending on your desired texture.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
Serve hot with crusty bread, crackers, or in a bread bowl.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 310 kcal

Variations

Extra Creamy: Use half & half or add a splash of heavy cream for a richer finish.
Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or crumbled bacon for a heartier soup.
Low-Carb: Omit the flour and thicken the soup with pureed cauliflower.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen. This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just add it directly to the simmering broth—no need to thaw.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully. Ideal for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Add cheese off the heat or over low heat, and stir constantly to ensure it melts smoothly.

Is this soup gluten-free?

As written, it’s not. However, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for bold flavor, but you can mix in mild cheddar or even white cheddar for variety.

Can I use a regular blender instead of an immersion blender?

Yes, but be sure to blend in batches and let the soup cool slightly before transferring to avoid splattering.

How do I make it thinner or thicker?

To thicken, let the soup simmer uncovered for a few minutes. To thin, stir in extra broth or milk.

Can I leave the soup chunky?

Absolutely. Blend to your desired consistency or skip blending altogether for a rustic texture.

What type of broth is best?

Vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian version, but chicken broth adds extra richness.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw before reheating.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm, comforting dish that brings rich, cheesy flavor and hearty vegetables together in one simple pot. Perfect for cold days, cozy nights, or a quick family meal, it’s a versatile favorite you’ll turn to again and again. Pair it with a crusty slice of bread or serve it in a bread bowl for the ultimate comfort experience.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Mari
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a cozy, one-pot classic packed with tender broccoli, sweet carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s warm, comforting, and easy to make—perfect for chilly days, fall meals, or weeknight dinners served with crusty bread or in a bread bowl.

Instructions

In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in broth and then milk. Stir until smooth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add chopped broccoli and shredded carrots (if using). Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes until veggies are tender.
Blend partially or fully with an immersion blender to desired texture.
Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to taste.