Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is one of those timeless dishes that brings warmth, comfort, and a rich, creamy flavor all in one bowl. Whether you’re looking to cozy up during the cooler months or want something hearty but not too heavy, this recipe fits the bill. Packed with vegetables, protein-rich cheese, and a perfect balance of spices, this soup is both satisfying and wholesome.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps to make your own Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home, provide helpful tips to customize it to your taste, and explore why this dish continues to be a favorite in kitchens around the world.

Why Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

There’s something incredibly soothing about a bowl of hot soup, especially when it’s made with fresh, nutritious ingredients. Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines the earthy tones of broccoli, the sharpness of cheddar cheese, and the silky texture that comes from a milk-and-broth base. The addition of aromatic ingredients like onions and garlic, along with a touch of smoked paprika, adds layers of flavor that make each spoonful a delight.

This soup is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. It requires minimal ingredients, most of which are pantry staples or can be found at any grocery store. Better still, it’s a one-pot dish, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients used in this delicious recipe:

• Butter: Acts as the base fat for sautéing the onions and garlic, providing richness to the soup.

• Onion: Adds a savory depth that enhances the overall flavor.

• Minced Garlic: Introduces a bold aroma and flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese.

• Shredded Carrots: Bring a hint of sweetness and texture, balancing the savory notes.

• Flour: Used to thicken the soup, giving it that signature creamy consistency.

• Chicken Broth: Adds flavor and body. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning.

• Smoked Paprika: Provides a mild smokiness that elevates the dish.

• Raw Broccoli: The star of the show. It softens while cooking but retains enough texture to offer a pleasant bite.

• Milk: Adds creaminess without making the soup overly heavy.

• White Cheddar Cheese: Melts smoothly into the soup, adding sharpness and richness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Here’s how to bring all these ingredients together in a single, soul-warming bowl of soup.

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Start by heating one tablespoon of butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add a large chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 2–3 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This is the foundational flavor for the soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic, Carrots, and Flour

Stir in one tablespoon of minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add half a cup of shredded carrots and two tablespoons of flour. The flour helps create a roux, which thickens the soup. Stir until everything is evenly coated and well combined.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Seasonings

Gradually pour in two cups of chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle in half a tablespoon of smoked paprika. Let everything cook together for another two minutes so the flavors can meld.

Step 4: Add Broccoli, Milk, and Cheese

Next, add one cup of chopped raw broccoli and one cup of milk. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients. Then, gently fold in half a cup of shredded white cheddar cheese. Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the broccoli becomes tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Final Stir and Serve

Once the broccoli is cooked through and the cheese has melted into a smooth consistency, give the soup a final stir. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Then serve hot with your favorite bread, crackers, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comforting meal.

Tips and Variations

• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. It will still be delicious and hearty.

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken or turkey sausage makes a great addition if you want to bulk up the soup.

• Go Extra Cheesy: For cheese lovers, feel free to increase the cheddar or add a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for more gooey goodness.

• Creamier Option: Replace the milk with half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer texture.

• Blended Version: If you prefer a smooth soup, you can blend it using an immersion blender before serving.

Nutritional Value

While Broccoli Cheddar Soup is indulgent, it’s also nutritious. Broccoli is a fantastic source of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Carrots add beta-carotene, and cheese provides protein and calcium. By using milk instead of heavy cream, this recipe keeps the calorie count lower while still delivering on flavor.

Why Homemade Is Better

Sure, you can find broccoli cheddar soup in cans or at restaurants, but nothing beats homemade. You control the ingredients, the sodium levels, and the overall quality of the dish. Plus, the aroma of it simmering on the stove is enough to make anyone hungry.

Making it at home also means you can store leftovers for quick lunches or light dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully on the stove or in the microwave with just a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting experience. It’s the perfect answer to a busy weeknight, a chilly evening, or any time you crave something warm and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen.

Whether you’re serving it as a starter, a main course, or pairing it with a sandwich or salad, this soup delivers every time. So grab your favorite pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

If you try this recipe, feel free to get creative and make it your own. After all, the best meals are the ones that bring both flavor and comfort to your table.

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Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Creamy and comforting homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup made with fresh veggies, cheese, and spices. Perfect for a cozy, flavorful meal.

Type: Soup

Cuisine: American

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, creamy soup, homemade soup, easy broccoli soup, vegetarian soup, cheesy soup

Recipe Yield: 2–3 servings

Calories: Approximately 250–300 per serving (varies slightly based on cheese and milk used)

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Recipe Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 cup chopped raw broccoli
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese

Recipe Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Base:

Start by heating one tablespoon of butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add a large chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 2–3 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This is the foundational flavor for the soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic, Carrots, and Flour:

Stir in one tablespoon of minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add half a cup of shredded carrots and two tablespoons of flour. The flour helps create a roux, which thickens the soup. Stir until everything is evenly coated and well combined.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Seasonings:

Gradually pour in two cups of chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle in half a tablespoon of smoked paprika. Let everything cook together for another two minutes so the flavors can meld.

Step 4: Add Broccoli, Milk, and Cheese:

Next, add one cup of chopped raw broccoli and one cup of milk. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients. Then, gently fold in half a cup of shredded white cheddar cheese. Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the broccoli becomes tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Final Stir and Serve:

Once the broccoli is cooked through and the cheese has melted into a smooth consistency, give the soup a final stir. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Then serve hot with your favorite bread, crackers, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comforting meal.