This Ultimate Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is a cozy, homemade classic filled with tender broccoli, rich cheddar, and a smooth, velvety base — the perfect comfort dish for any season.
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Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This recipe delivers everything people crave in a comfort soup: richness, warmth, and a satisfying burst of cheesy flavor. It comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends. Each bowl offers a balanced mix of creamy broth, savory cheddar, and fresh vegetables. Whether you blend it smooth or keep it chunky, this soup remains consistently delicious, family-friendly, and easy to customize.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Main Ingredients
- Butter
- Yellow onion, finely chopped
- All-purpose flour
- Chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a meatless version)
- Half and half
- Broccoli florets, chopped
- Carrots, peeled and diced
- Kosher salt
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Dry mustard
- Black pepper
- Sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Ingredient Notes (Substitutions & Healthy Swaps)
- Butter: You may use olive oil for a slightly lighter option.
- Flour: For gluten-free needs, use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour.
- Chicken broth: Vegetable broth works beautifully if you prefer a vegetarian soup.
- Half and half: Whole milk can be used for a lighter version; heavy cream creates an even richer finish.
- Broccoli: Frozen broccoli can be added directly to the pot without thawing.
- Cheddar: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and prevents graininess; mild cheddar works, but sharp gives the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Sauté the Aromatics
Melt a tablespoon of butter in a large pot and cook the chopped onion until it softens and becomes translucent. This adds depth and sweetness to the soup base.
Step 2 – Build the Roux
Add the remaining butter, then stir in the flour. Cook for about one minute, stirring constantly. This creates the thickening base for the soup and prevents a raw flour taste.
Step 3 – Add the Liquids
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to dissolve any lumps. Follow with the half and half, continuing to whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4 – Add Vegetables and Seasoning
Stir in the broccoli, carrots, salt, garlic powder, paprika, mustard powder, and pepper. Reduce the heat and simmer until the vegetables become tender, usually 10–15 minutes.
Step 5 – Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a smooth texture, blend part or all of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender.
Step 6 – Melt the Cheese
Turn off the heat and stir in the cheddar a handful at a time until fully melted. This step keeps the soup velvety and prevents curdling. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Ultimate Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A rich, velvety soup made with tender broccoli, fresh carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese—ready in 30 minutes and perfect for cozy nights, weeknights, or comforting family meals.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups half and half
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dry mustard
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Melt 1 tbsp butter in a large pot over medium heat. Cook onion until soft and translucent (4–5 min).
- Make roux: Add remaining butter, then stir in flour. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Add liquids: Gradually whisk in broth, then half and half, until smooth.
- Add veggies & spices: Stir in broccoli, carrots, salt, paprika, garlic powder, dry mustard, and pepper. Simmer 10–15 min until vegetables are tender.
- Blend (optional): Use an immersion blender to purée partially or fully for desired texture.
- Melt cheese: Turn off heat. Stir in cheddar a handful at a time until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Notes
- Shred your own cheese—pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that cause graininess.
- Add cheese off the heat to prevent curdling or separation.
- For vegetarian: use vegetable broth.
- For gluten-free: substitute flour with 1:1 GF blend.
- Freezing not ideal due to dairy, but possible if fully blended and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Pro Tips for Success
- Shred your own cheese for smooth, lump-free melting.
- Add the cheese off the heat to prevent separation.
- Simmer gently — high heat can scorch dairy.
- Blend only part of the soup to keep texture while still achieving creaminess.
- Season in layers and adjust at the end for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations
- Extra Cheesy: Stir in additional sharp cheddar or a splash of cream cheese.
- Broccoli Potato: Add peeled, diced potatoes as the soup simmers for a heartier version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
- Herb Twist: Finish with fresh thyme, parsley, or chives.
- Veggie-Packed: Include cauliflower, celery, or diced zucchini for added nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or warm biscuits.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Garnish with extra cheddar, black pepper, or homemade croutons.
- Enjoy as a starter or a full meal on its own.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
- Freezing: Because of the dairy, freezing may alter the texture. If you choose to freeze it, blend the soup fully before storing and reheat slowly to maintain smoothness.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~340 |
| Protein | ~12g |
| Carbs | ~20g |
| Fat | ~24g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~780mg |
OTHER RECIPES YOU MIGHT ENJOY
- Easy Ritz Cracker Toffee – A Quick Holiday Treat
- Easy Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies with White Chocolate
- Healthy White Chicken Chili With Corn
- Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie Soup for Cozy Nights
FAQ About Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
How do I prevent my broccoli cheddar soup from becoming grainy?
A grainy texture often happens when cheese is overheated. Melting cheese over low heat is essential. Turn off the heat before adding freshly shredded cheddar and stir in small handfuls at a time. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The rest of the recipe remains exactly the same. For added richness, a touch more cheddar or a splash of heavy cream can make up for the deeper savoriness chicken broth usually provides.
Can I make this soup without dairy?
A dairy-free version is possible using plant-based butter, unsweetened almond milk, and dairy-free cheese alternatives. You may need to add extra thickening (such as a cornstarch slurry) to achieve a similar creamy texture.
How can I thicken the soup if it seems too thin?
Let the soup simmer longer to reduce naturally and concentrate the base. You can also whisk in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cool broth, or blend a portion of the soup to give it a thicker, creamier body.
What vegetables can I add besides broccoli and carrots?
Cauliflower, potatoes, celery, onions, and zucchini all work well in this soup. These additions allow you to create a more robust meal while keeping the flavor profile familiar and comforting.
Final Thoughts
This Ultimate Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a deeply satisfying, homemade bowl of comfort. With its creamy texture, rich cheddar flavor, and easy adaptable method, it’s a recipe that works for every season and every cooking level. Perfect for cozy nights, quick meals, or anytime you’re craving something warm and delicious. For more inspiration, check out these Easy Pumpkin Pie Tacos—A Fun Fall Dessert, or explore more on Pinterest for your next meal idea!