Name: Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small onion, chopped; 1 medium carrot, chopped; 1 celery stalk, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups broccoli florets (about 2 heads), chopped into small pieces; 3 cups less sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1 cup fat free milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 1-1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 3 tablespoons flour (all-purpose, whole wheat, or gluten-free); 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; Fresh black pepper, to taste

If you’re craving a cozy, velvety comfort food that warms you up from the inside out, look no further than this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe. It’s a creamy, cheesy hug in a bowl that balances the freshness of broccoli with the rich, sharp flavor of cheddar cheese. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a solo treat, this recipe brings together simple ingredients that melt into a stunningly delicious soup that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this classic soup made just right, it will become one of your favorite go-to dishes for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little culinary comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with shredded orange cheese sits in the center on a white marbled surface. Above the bowl, there is a clear glass jug with light yellow broth. To the right of the bowl, a bunch of bright green broccoli and a whole light brown onion are placed. To the left of the bowl, a dark orange carrot and a pale green celery stick lie side by side. Below the bowl, three small white dishes are arranged: one with two garlic cloves, one with a square of yellow butter, and one with coarse white salt. Next to these, a small triangular block of pale yellow cheese and a white bowl filled with a creamy white liquid are also on the surface. The light casts soft shadows, making the textures and colors clear. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is how few ingredients you need to create something so flavorful and rich. Each component plays a crucial role—from the fragrant trio of onion, carrot, and celery that builds your base, to the sharp cheddar and Parmesan that add layers of cheesy goodness. Let’s look at the essentials that come together effortlessly for a crowd-pleasing result.

1 small onion (chopped): Provides a sweet and savory foundation that softens beautifully during sautéing.
1 medium carrot (chopped): Adds a subtle natural sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the soup.
1 celery stalk (chopped): Brings an aromatic depth that complements the other vegetables perfectly.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the broth with a mellow garlic essence without overpowering the dish.
2 tablespoons butter: Creates a luscious base and helps gently cook the vegetables.
3 tablespoons flour (all-purpose, whole wheat, or gluten-free): Thickens the soup for a creamy, satisfying texture.
3 cups less sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Builds the savory liquid backbone of the soup, allowing you to control saltiness.
1 cup fat free milk: Lightens the soup while keeping it creamy and smooth.
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming them.
Fresh black pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle kick and warmth.
6 cups broccoli florets (chopped into small pieces, about 2 heads): The star ingredient providing that fresh green flavor and delightful texture.
1-1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar: Gives the soup its signature cheesy, tangy bite.
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Adds an extra depth and subtle nuttiness to the overall flavor.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Start by chopping the onion, carrot, celery, and mincing the garlic. I love using a food processor for this step because it saves time and ensures everything is evenly chopped, which helps the flavors blend perfectly as the soup cooks.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt the butter in a large pot over low heat, then add your chopped vegetables along with the salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let them gently soften for about 5 minutes—this slow sauté releases their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful base without browning them too much.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the veggies. Cook this mixture for 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. This step is crucial because it thickens the soup beautifully once you add the broth.

Step 4: Add Broth and Milk

Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure to break up any lumps for a smooth texture. Then pour in the milk and crank up the heat until the soup just comes to a boil. This warming step brings all the flavors together and preps the pot for adding the broccoli.

Step 5: Cook the Broccoli

Add your chopped broccoli florets and the Parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir well, then reduce heat to a low simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, just until the broccoli is tender but still vibrantly green. This keeps the soup fresh and colorful.

Step 6: Blend for Texture

Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup quickly for a creamier consistency while still leaving plenty of broccoli chunks for texture. No immersion blender? No problem. Simply blend 1-2 cups in a regular blender and stir it back in—easy and effective.

Step 7: Add the Cheddar Cheese

Turn off the heat and gently stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the soup. This step is key to get that luxurious cheesy flavor without curdling the milk.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Dish the soup into bowls and if you want, sprinkle a little extra cheddar on top for a gorgeous cheesy finish. Your Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

A bowl of creamy green broccoli soup fills the center of the image, with a smooth, slightly thick texture and visible small broccoli bits throughout. The soup is topped with small bright green broccoli florets and thin strips of golden yellow cheese, sprinkled evenly with coarse black pepper. The bowl is white with a thin beige rim, resting on a white marbled surface. Next to the bowl, there are two tarnished silver spoons and a few loose broccoli florets scattered on the surface. A crumpled cloth with orange and white stripes is partially visible in the top left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple toppings like a few extra shreds of sharp cheddar, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, or even a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits add a wonderful touch. Fresh chopped parsley or chives brighten the soup visually and with a hint of fresh flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crunchy crusty bread, buttery garlic toasts, or warm soft pretzels. A light green salad or roasted vegetables make for a well-rounded meal that feels satisfying yet not too heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

For party servings or a fun family dinner, ladle the soup into hollowed-out bread bowls for that rustic charm. You can also serve it in small mugs or shot glasses as an appetizer. Adding a swirl of cream or a drizzle of chili oil adds a gourmet touch that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe stores wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the soup from absorbing other odors.

Freezing

While you can freeze the soup, know that the texture may change slightly due to the dairy content. It’s best to freeze before adding the cheese and then stir in fresh shredded cheddar when reheating to maintain that creamy, cheesy texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often, to prevent the cheese and milk from separating. If the soup is too thick, a splash of milk or broth can help loosen it up as it warms.

FAQs

Can I make this Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version that doesn’t sacrifice any flavor.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can try substituting dairy milk with unsweetened plant-based milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative, though the flavor and texture will be different from the classic version.

How do I prevent the soup from becoming grainy after reheating?

Reheat the soup slowly over low heat, and avoid boiling it. Stir consistently and add a bit of milk or broth if needed to keep the texture smooth and creamy.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe, just add it at the same stage as fresh florets and allow a little extra cooking time to ensure it’s tender.

What can I do if I don’t have an immersion blender?

No immersion blender? Blend a portion of the soup in a regular blender or food processor and then return it to the pot. This method still gives you that nice creamy texture without special equipment.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is truly a showstopper for anyone craving a comforting, hearty, and cheesy meal that feels like a warm hug. Its effortless blend of simple ingredients and straightforward steps means you can make it anytime and share the joy with your loved ones. I promise once you make this soup, it will become a staple in your kitchen as it has in mine. So go ahead, grab your apron, and let this delicious recipe fill your home with irresistible aromas and happy memories.