Cheddar Broccoli Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul, then this Cheddar Broccoli Soup is just what you need! It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavors that make it a family favorite. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a gathering with friends, this soup shines as a delightful main course. Plus, the best part? It all comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s quick to whip up and incredibly satisfying. Each spoonful is like a warm hug, perfect for those busy evenings or when you’re craving some good old-fashioned comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just one pot and simple steps, even novice cooks can master this delicious soup.
• Family-friendly favorite: Kids and adults alike love the rich flavors of cheddar and broccoli combined in this creamy delight.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste!
• Serve it stylishly: Enjoy it in bread bowls or alongside hearty buttered bread for an elevated dining experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Cheddar Broccoli Soup! Most of these are pantry staples you might already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base

• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (1 onion)
• 1-1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3/4 teaspoon paprika (I like smoked)
• 3/4 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper

For the Broth

• 6 tablespoons flour
• 32 ounces reduced-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

For Creaminess

• 3 cups half-and-half (see note 1)

For Flavor and Texture

• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• 6 cups chopped broccoli (to bite-size pieces)
• 2 cups shredded carrots

For the Cheesy Goodness

• 12 ounces freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese (3-1/4 cups)

Optional Additions

• Hearty buttered bread (optional, or serve in bread bowls)

Variations

One of the best things about this Cheddar Broccoli Soup is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking.

• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add more cayenne pepper or even a pinch of red pepper flakes!
• Go vegan: Substitute half-and-half with coconut milk and opt for plant-based cheese to make it dairy-free.
• Protein boost: Stir in cooked chicken or white beans for added protein.

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of butter along with the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add your finely diced onion. Cook until golden brown—this should take about 3–5 minutes—stirring occasionally. The caramelization brings out natural sweetness that enhances our soup’s flavor! Next, toss in minced garlic, paprika, ground mustard, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper to taste. Keep stirring constantly for about 45 seconds until everything is fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Roux

After your aromatics are ready, add the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter and let it melt completely. Whisk in flour and cook while whisking constantly for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it creates a roux that thickens our soup beautifully!

Step 3: Add the Broth

Now it’s time to gradually whisk in your chicken broth. Once combined perfectly, slowly incorporate the half-and-half while continuing to whisk. Reducing heat to medium-low is important here; add a bay leaf if you like! Let everything simmer for about 15 minutes while whisking occasionally until nicely thickened.

Step 4: Incorporate Veggies

While your soup simmers away smelling divine, chop up those broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces and shred your cheese. After simmering, stir in the broccoli and shredded carrots into the pot.

Step 5: Cook Until Tender

Allow the soup to cook on low for another 10–15 minutes until the broccoli reaches your preferred level of tenderness. Feel free to blend some of the soup if you prefer a smoother texture; I love mine chunky though!

Step 6: Add Cheese & Serve

Finally, turn off the heat and gradually stir in that luscious cheddar cheese—a handful at a time—until melted. Don’t forget to taste! Adjust seasoning with salt as needed; I usually sprinkle in an additional half teaspoon here.

Enjoy this comforting bowl immediately! Serve it up in bread bowls or alongside hearty buttered bread for dipping goodness.

And there you have it—a delightful bowl of homemade Cheddar Broccoli Soup ready to warm your heart!

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Making a delicious Cheddar Broccoli Soup is all about the little details, and I’ve got some pro tips to help you achieve that creamy, flavorful perfection!

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh broccoli and carrots not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color and nutrients to your soup. The fresher the produce, the better the overall taste!

• Grate Your Own Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect how well it melts. Grating your own extra-sharp Cheddar cheese ensures a smooth, creamy texture throughout your soup.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually – As you add spices and seasonings, do so incrementally. This allows you to control the flavor more effectively and avoid over-seasoning.

• Blend for Texture Variety – If you enjoy a creamier soup, consider blending a portion of it before adding the cheese. This will give you a rich texture while still leaving some chunks of broccoli for that satisfying bite.

• Store Leftovers Properly – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain creaminess without curdling.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Serving your Cheddar Broccoli Soup can turn a simple meal into something special! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Chopped Chives or Green Onions – A sprinkle of fresh chives or sliced green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the soup.
• Croutons – Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Extra Shredded Cheese – A little extra sprinkling of shredded Cheddar on top just before serving makes for an enticing visual and enhances the cheesy goodness!

Side Dishes

• Hearty Bread Rolls – Soft, warm bread rolls are perfect for dipping into your soup, offering a comforting texture that pairs wonderfully with each spoonful.
• Garden Salad – A light garden salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the soup while adding freshness to your meal.
• Garlic Breadsticks – These buttery sticks are not only delicious but also great for soaking up every last drop of your flavorful soup!
• Quinoa Salad – A quinoa salad mixed with chopped vegetables and herbs provides protein and fiber while contrasting nicely with the creamy soup.

Enjoying this Cheddar Broccoli Soup with these garnishes and sides will make for an inviting meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheddar Broccoli Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious soup:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy reference.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool fully before pouring it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove excess air from bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If reheating from frozen, you can use a microwave-safe bowl; heat in short intervals, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cheddar Broccoli Soup:

Can I make Cheddar Broccoli Soup dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute half-and-half with a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also dairy-free.

How do I make my Cheddar Broccoli Soup thicker?

To thicken your Cheddar Broccoli Soup, you can blend a portion of it after cooking or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) during cooking until desired thickness is reached.

What can I serve with Cheddar Broccoli Soup?

Hearty buttered bread is a great side dish! Alternatively, you can serve this soup in bread bowls for a fun presentation. A side salad also pairs nicely!

Can I add other vegetables to my Cheddar Broccoli Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to throw in vegetables like cauliflower, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does homemade Cheddar Broccoli Soup last in the fridge?

Homemade Cheddar Broccoli Soup will last about 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this creamy and comforting Cheddar Broccoli Soup as much as I do! It’s not just quick and easy; it’s packed with flavors that warm your heart. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or preparing it for meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to savor every spoonful!