When the temperatures dip and the leaves start to turn, there’s nothing I crave more than a warm bowl of creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This recipe, which comes together in just 30 minutes, is my secret weapon for cozying up on chilly days. Imagine the rich aroma of sautéed garlic and onions wafting through your kitchen, welcoming you home. Each spoonful not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a hearty dose of veggies, making it the ultimate comfort food that I promise rivals even the beloved version from Panera.
What I love most about this soup is its versatility; whether you’re looking to enjoy a quick vegetarian meal or tweak it to fit your cravings, you’ll find endless possibilities. So, pull out your favorite pot, and let’s dive into this delectable dish that will not only chase away the cold but also warm your heart and soul!
Why is Broccoli Cheddar Soup a must-try?
Comforting and Creamy: This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the epitome of cozy cuisine, offering a velvety texture that hugs your soul.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.
Packed with Veggies: With chunks of broccoli and carrots, you’re getting a nutritious boost disguised as comfort food.
Endless Customization: Feel free to swap ingredients like using almond milk for a vegan version or adding cooked chicken for an extra protein punch.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for family dinners or friendly gatherings, this soup impresses everyone, becoming a surefire hit at your table.
So grab your ingredients, and let’s make this delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup that you’ll keep coming back to!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients
For the Base
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and a base for sautéing; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
• Medium Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor; make sure to chop finely for even cooking.
• Sea Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust based on dietary needs.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth and seasoning; use to taste.
• Garlic Cloves – Imparts aromatic flavor; always opt for fresh garlic for the best results.
For Thickening
• All-Purpose Flour – Acts as a thickening agent for the soup; gluten-free flour can be used if needed.
For Creaminess
• Whole Milk or Unsweetened Almond Milk – Offers creamy texture; whole milk gives a richer experience, while almond milk is great for a vegan version.
• Vegetable Broth – Serves as the soup base for flavor; chickpea or chicken broth are fine alternatives.
For the Soup
• Chopped Broccoli Florets – The star ingredient providing nutrition and texture; fresh is preferred, though frozen can work in a pinch.
• Carrot (Julienned or Finely Chopped) – Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
• Dijon Mustard – Provides a subtle tang; feel free to omit or swap with yellow mustard if needed.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Gives the signature cheesy flavor; sharp cheddar makes for a bolder taste, or mix cheeses for variation.
Optional Topping
• Homemade Croutons – Adding a crunchy contrast, they make for an excellent topping for serving.
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup will be a comforting staple that warms you inside and out, making it a delightful choice for any meal!
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, allowing it to become foamy but not browned—this will create a delicious base for your soup.
Sauté the chopped onion, sea salt, and black pepper in the melted butter for about 5 minutes, until the onions are softened and translucent. This enhances the soup’s flavor profile beautifully.
Incorporate the garlic, stirring it in for an additional minute until it’s fragrant, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Sprinkle in the flour, whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes until it turns golden and slightly nutty. This will help thicken your soup.
Gradually whisk in the whole milk (or unsweetened almond milk), then pour in the vegetable broth, stirring until combined and smooth.
Add the chopped broccoli florets, julienned carrot, and Dijon mustard to the pot, mixing it all together until well combined.
Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese gradually, allowing it to melt completely, achieving that creamy consistency you love in a good soup.
Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed, then serve hot in bowls, enjoying every comforting spoonful.
Optional: Garnish with homemade croutons for added crunch and texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Fridge: Store your Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Note that the soup may thicken upon chilling, so don’t forget to add a splash of milk when reheating.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm on the stove, adding a bit of liquid to achieve the desired consistency.
Reheating: To enjoy your soup later, reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add more milk or broth if it has thickened too much.
Texture Tip: Once reheated, the creamy texture of the soup should return, but if it’s still thick, just a splash of liquid will help bring it back to life!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful soup your own!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond milk and use plant-based cheese for a creamy vegan option.
- Extra Veggies: Add diced potatoes or spinach for added nutrition and a heartier texture in every spoonful.
- Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken or crispy bacon bits to make the soup more filling and add a savory layer of flavor.
- Nutty Flavor: Swap half of the cheddar with Gruyere cheese for a deliciously nutty twist that enhances the overall richness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while cooking to introduce a warm, spicy dimension to your soup.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during simmering to infuse an aromatic flavor throughout the soup.
- Smoky Touch: Try adding smoked paprika for a rich, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
- Creamy Style: For a supersmooth finish, blend the soup partly or fully before adding cheese, creating a luxurious texture that’s simply irresistible.
With these variations, you can tailor this Broccoli Cheddar Soup to fit your taste or dietary needs perfectly!
What to Serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Warm up your dinner table with delightful pairings that enhance this creamy soup experience.
Homemade Croutons: Add a crunchy contrast, perfect for dipping and enhancing the creamy texture of the soup.
Garlic Bread: This classic dish complements the soup’s rich flavors while providing a warm, buttery element to your meal.
Garden Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and tangy dressing balances the soup’s creaminess, offering a refreshing bite.
Cheesy Breadsticks: These cheesy treats can be pulled apart for easy dipping into the soup, creating a comforting combination.
Stuffed Baked Potatoes: The heartiness of stuffed potatoes paired with the soup makes for a filling and indulgent meal, ensuring satisfaction.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp brings sweetness and a touch of tartness, perfectly capping off the cozy dining experience.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing drinks like iced tea or lemonade offer a crisp contrast, quenching your thirst while pairing beautifully with savory flavors.
Expert Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Sauté Gently: Keep the heat moderate to prevent burning the butter or garlic, which can ruin the soup’s flavor.
• Cheese Incorporation: Gradually add shredded cheese, stirring continuously to avoid clumping and ensure smooth melting throughout your Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
• Broccoli Texture: Adjust the simmering time based on your preference for broccoli doneness; some like it soft, while others prefer a bit of crunch.
• Storage Tip: This soup stores well in an airtight container for up to 3 days; it may thicken upon cooling—add a splash of milk when reheating for the desired consistency.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Experiment with different cheeses or plant-based milk for a personal touch—make it yours while enjoying the creamy goodness!
Make Ahead Options
These creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup components are perfect for preparing ahead of time, saving you precious minutes on busy nights! You can chop the vegetables (broccoli and carrots) and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, the soup base can be made up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe up to the point of adding cheese and then let it cool before refrigerating. To maintain quality, reheat on the stove with a splash of milk for creaminess—this ensures the soup remains velvety. When ready to serve, stir in the cheese until melted, and enjoy a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli should I use for the soup?
I recommend using fresh broccoli florets for the best flavor and texture. Look for vibrant green florets without dark spots or wilting. However, if you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli can work too—just add a little extra time to ensure it’s fully heated through in the soup.
How long can I store leftover broccoli cheddar soup?
You can store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that it may thicken as it cools, so I always suggest adding a splash of milk or broth when reheating to regain that luscious creaminess.
Can I freeze broccoli cheddar soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove, adding liquid to achieve the desired consistency.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than you like, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of milk or vegetable broth while reheating, stirring well to incorporate. This will help bring back the creamy texture and make it as delightful as when it was first made.
Is this soup safe for people with dairy allergies?
Great question! To make this soup dairy-free, you can substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond milk and use a dairy-free cheese option. Just be sure to check labels for any potential allergens, making it suitable for your dietary needs.
How can I enhance the flavor of my soup?
For a flavor boost, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of nutmeg while simmering. You can also mix in cooked chicken or bacon for a protein boost or swap half of the cheddar cheese for Gruyere for a nuttier flavor experience. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor!
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ready in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, allowing it to become foamy but not browned.
- Sauté the chopped onion, sea salt, and black pepper in the melted butter for about 5 minutes, until the onions are softened and translucent.
- Incorporate the garlic, stirring it in for an additional minute until it's fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the flour, whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes until it turns golden and slightly nutty.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk (or unsweetened almond milk), then pour in the vegetable broth, stirring until combined and smooth.
- Add the chopped broccoli florets, julienned carrot, and Dijon mustard to the pot, mixing it all together until well combined.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese gradually, allowing it to melt completely.
- Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed, then serve hot.