Updated June 2025: This recipe has been retested and rewritten by Chef Cory using fresh, real ingredients. Placeholder images are being used temporarily and will be replaced with real kitchen photography during our full site refresh.
The Creamiest, Dreamiest Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A Comfort Food Classic with a Healthy Twist!
Love broccoli cheddar soup? Get ready to whip up the most irresistible Broccoli Cheddar Soup ever! Packed with fresh broccoli, rich cheddar, and a hint of garlic, this soup is creamy, cheesy perfection in every spoonful. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl that’s both indulgent and nutritious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive starter, this recipe will have you craving seconds—and maybe even thirds!
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Why You Need This Broccoli Cheddar Soup in Your Life
This broccoli cheddar soup is thick, creamy, and unapologetically cheesy.
It’s loaded with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a rich, velvety base that doesn’t rely on shortcuts or mystery ingredients.
I like to blend half of it smooth and leave the rest chunky for the perfect balance of texture.
It’s a one-pot wonder that tastes like it came straight from your favorite café — only better, because you made it yourself.
Table of Contents
The Story Behind the Soup
I remember making this Broccoli Cheddar Soup for my family for the first time. It was a cold winter evening, and I wanted to create something like a hug in a bowl—the kind of meal that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside like you’re wrapped up in a cozy blanket.
I had just returned from our local farmer’s market with a basket full of fresh broccoli and a block of sharp cheddar cheese that I knew would pair perfectly.
My curious daughters peered over the kitchen counter as I began chopping and stirring. Their little hands couldn’t resist sneaking bites of the cheese, which, of course, I pretended not to notice.
Let’s say that by the end of the prep, we had slightly less cheese than we started with! I also made sure to have chicken stock on hand, knowing it would add a rich depth of flavor to the soup as it simmered.
Whether I’m making it for a quiet family dinner or serving it up for guests in cute little bread bowls, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup always gets rave reviews.
It’s rich, creamy, and satisfying without being too heavy. And here’s a little secret: it’s ready in just under 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for those nights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Why This Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup Is a Game-Changer
Broccoli is a Superfood: It’s not just a green veggie that your kids try to hide under their napkins. Broccoli is loaded with Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and folate. It’s even been shown to support heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Cheddar for the Win: Sharp cheddar cheese isn’t just there to make things creamy and delicious (though, that’s a major perk!). It’s also packed with protein and calcium, making this soup a sneaky way to get some essential nutrients.
Easy Peasy: This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is so simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch in less time than it takes to decide what to watch on Netflix. And trust me, the leftovers are even better the next day.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it in a rustic sourdough bread bowl for an impressive dinner party starter, or keep it casual in a big mug on a chilly afternoon. It’s versatile, cozy, and always hits the spot.
Why Broccoli is Perfect for Your Health (and This Broccoli Cheese Soup!)
Broccoli is a true superfood, packed with nutrients that benefit your body in countless ways. It’s rich in Vitamin C—one cup provides more than an orange! This antioxidant powerhouse boosts your immune system and helps fight off colds and infections.
Broccoli also contains high levels of fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, making it a great addition to any meal.
What makes broccoli especially perfect for Broccoli Cheddar Soup is its mild, slightly sweet flavor that balances beautifully with the sharpness of the cheddar. Plus, it’s loaded with sulforaphane, a compound that’s been linked to reduced cancer risk and improved heart health.
It’s the ideal ingredient to turn a comforting bowl of soup into a nutritional powerhouse that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds!
The Main Ingredients (And Why They Matter!)
A truly great soup starts with truly great ingredients. And in this Broccoli Cheddar Soup, each one plays a specific role in creating the magic.
Here’s why they matter and what they do for both the flavor and your health:
- Fresh Broccoli Florets
- Health Benefit: Broccoli is loaded with vitamins C, K, and A, and it’s rich in fiber and antioxidants. It’s known for supporting immunity, digestion, and even reducing inflammation.
- Culinary Role: In this soup, broccoli provides a hearty, wholesome base. When cooked until tender and partially blended, it gives the soup both texture and a fresh, earthy flavor that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- Health Benefit: Cheddar is a great source of protein, calcium, and healthy fats. It also adds Vitamin B12, which supports brain health and energy levels.
- Culinary Role: This is where the soup gets its signature flavor. Sharp cheddar brings depth, a slightly tangy bite, and a creamy finish. Using freshly grated cheese helps it melt beautifully, avoiding that dreaded gritty texture.
- Heavy Cream
- Health Benefit: While rich, cream provides essential fats and fat-soluble vitamins like A and D. In moderation, it can be part of a balanced, satisfying meal.
- Culinary Role: Heavy cream is what gives the soup that luxurious, velvety feel. It smooths everything out, marries the flavors together, and makes it feel like a warm hug in a bowl.
With just these three ingredients at the heart of the dish, you’re getting a meal that’s comforting, nutritious, and absolutely crave-worthy.
Trust me, your taste buds and your body will both thank you.
3 Key Ingredients for the Perfect Soup
- Fresh Broccoli Florets – High in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants; always choose vibrant green, firm broccoli for maximum freshness.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides rich, creamy depth and flavor; freshly grated cheese melts smoother and enhances taste.
- Heavy Cream – Adds luxurious, silky texture; opt for organic or locally sourced cream for the best taste and quality.
Ingredient Substitutions Made Easy
- Dairy-free swap: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and cheddar with vegan cheese.
- Gluten-free swap: Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead of flour as a thickener.
- Pantry-friendly variation: Frozen broccoli works well if fresh isn’t available.
- Kid-friendly variation: Purée soup thoroughly to hide broccoli pieces for picky eaters.
- Low-fat variation: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk to lighten up calories.
Why My Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a Winner
- Ultra Creamy: Perfectly balanced cream-to-broth ratio ensures maximum creaminess without heaviness.
- Quick and Easy: Comes together in 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Real Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and real cheese make it taste wholesome and authentic.
- Customizable: Easily adjustable based on dietary preferences or ingredients on hand.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to impress everyone, even kids and veggie skeptics!
Tips for Achieving a Creamy Texture
Achieving that perfect creamy texture in your broccoli cheddar soup is easier than you might think.
Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you get it just right:
Use a Roux: Start by making a roux, a mixture of flour and butter (or oil). This helps thicken the soup and gives it a smooth, creamy base. Before adding your liquids, cook the roux until it’s a light golden color.
Add Cheese Gradually: When it’s time to add the cheese, do it gradually. This allows the cheese to melt evenly and blend smoothly into the soup, preventing any clumps or graininess. Stir continuously to ensure a silky texture.
Use a Blender: Blend a portion of the soup for an ultra-smooth texture. An immersion blender is perfect for this, as it allows you to blend directly in the pot. If you prefer some chunks of broccoli, combine just half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
Add Cream or Milk: Incorporating cream or milk enhances the creaminess and balances the flavors. Whole milk, heavy cream, or even half-and-half will give you the best results. Try using dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk for a lighter option.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve a creamy, velvety broccoli cheddar soup that’s sure to impress.
Equipment and Tools
Before you start cooking, having all your equipment and tools ready is best to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need and how each tool will help you create the most delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
It is ideal for cooking soup and sautéing ingredients. It evenly distributes heat and provides plenty of room for all the components to simmer together.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board:
Essential for chopping broccoli, onions and grating carrots. A sharp knife makes prep work faster and safer, while a sturdy cutting board keeps your countertop clean and organized.
For accurate measurements of flour, broth, milk, and seasonings. Proper measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula:
These tools are perfect for stirring the soup and making the roux. They won’t scratch your pot and help mix ingredients thoroughly.
Crucial for creating a smooth roux and incorporating the milk and broth without lumps. It helps you achieve that creamy, velvety texture.
For freshly grating cheddar cheese and carrots, fresh cheese melts better, and grated carrots blend seamlessly into the soup for extra flavor and nutrition.
Immersion Blender or Regular Blender (Optional):
Use an immersion blender for a smooth, creamy texture directly in the pot. If using a regular blender, blend the soup in small batches to avoid hot splashes.
It is handy for serving the soup in bowls or bread bowls. It allows you to portion out the soup neatly and easily.
Bread Bowl (Optional):
If you would like to serve your soup in a rustic bread bowl, please make sure to have some crusty sourdough loaves ready. This adds a fun and delicious twist to your presentation.
Soup Bowls and Spoons:
Deep bowls are best for holding the creamy soup and all its toppings. Having the right serving dishes makes your meal feel special.
Having everything ready before you start cooking will make the process much smoother and more enjoyable. With these tools in hand, you’re all set to create the ultimate Broccoli Cheddar Soup experience. Happy cooking!
The Recipe: Best-Ever Broccoli Cheddar Soup
The Best-Ever Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalThis Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, rich, and packed with flavor! Made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of garlic, it’s the perfect balance of cheesy goodness and hearty veggies. Each spoonful delivers a comforting, velvety texture with a savory, slightly sweet, and nutty flavor profile that’s sure to warm you up on any day.
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Ingredients
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth or chicken stock for a richer flavor)
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
1 large carrot, peeled and grated
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
Optional: Crusty bread or sourdough bread bowl for serving
Directions
Sauté the Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
Create the Soup Base: Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, making sure to break up any clumps. Add the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until smooth and creamy. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
Add the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Blend (Optional): Using an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency for a smoother texture. You can mix just a portion to keep some chunks for texture or blend it all for a creamy soup.
Add the Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the sharp cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls or hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls. Top with additional shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
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The Last Ladle: A Delicious Summary
I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious broccoli cheddar soup as much as my family and I do!
If you make this soup, don’t forget to tag me @Dealiciousness and follow on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. And hey, if you love it (which I know you will), please leave a 5-star review. Your support means the world!
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Before You Go! More Recipes to Love
The Best Sourdough Bagels
Cooks in 70 minutesDifficulty: Easy, MediumThese homemade sourdough bagels are perfectly chewy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, and naturally leavened for the best depth of flavor. Made with a bubbly sourdough starter, high-protein bread flour, a touch of honey, and a classic malted water bath, these bagels have that signature golden crust and rich, tangy bite. Whether topped with sesame seeds, everything seasoning, or left plain, they’re a fresh, bakery-quality treat you’ll never want to buy again!
Sourdough Discard Brownies
Cooks in 70 minutesDifficulty: EasyThese Sourdough Discard Brownies are rich, fudgy, and irresistibly chocolatey, made with real butter, dark cocoa, and a swirl of sourdough discard for a subtle tang that deepens the flavor. Packed with chunks of melty chocolate, they’re the perfect balance of crispy edges and gooey centers.
FAQ And Additional Tips
Why is My Broccoli Soup So Grainy?
A grainy texture in your broccoli soup can be disappointing, but it’s a common issue that can be easily fixed.
Here are some reasons why it might happen and how to solve them:
Overcooking the Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli can break down too much, leading to a grainy texture. To avoid this, cook the broccoli just until it’s tender but still vibrant green.
Using Low-Quality Cheese: Low-quality cheese can separate and become grainy when melted. Always opt for high-quality cheese and grate it yourself if possible. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
Not Blending the Soup: If you prefer a smoother texture, blending the soup can help. Use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup until smooth, then mix it back in with the rest.
If you find your soup is already grainy, try blending it more or adding a bit more cream or milk to smooth out the texture.
How Do You Keep Broccoli a Vibrant Green?
Keeping your broccoli a vibrant green can make your soup look as good as it tastes. Here are some tips to help you preserve that beautiful color:
Cook the Broccoli Briefly: Cooking the broccoli just until it’s tender helps to preserve its color and texture. Overcooking can cause it to turn a dull green.
Use High-Quality Broccoli: Fresh, high-quality broccoli will naturally have a more vibrant color. Look for firm, bright green broccoli.
Add a Splash of Lemon Juice: A small amount of lemon juice can help preserve the broccoli’s color. Add it towards the end of cooking to maintain the vibrant green hue.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure your broccoli cheddar soup tastes fantastic and looks tasty and fresh.
What can I substitute in this Recipe?
Whether you’re looking to lighten things up, accommodate dietary needs, or switch up the flavors, here are some great substitutions you can use in this Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe:
1. Cheese Substitutes:
For Cheddar: Use Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. For a milder taste, try mozzarella or Swiss cheese.
For Parmesan: Asiago or Pecorino Romano are great alternatives that still add a sharp, salty kick.
2. Cream Substitutes:
For Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, try canned coconut milk or cashew cream.
For Whole Milk: You can use unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk to keep the soup creamy without dairy.
3. Broccoli Substitutes:
For Broccoli: Cauliflower works beautifully as a substitute and provides a similar texture and nutrition profile. For a green twist, you can also mix other vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini.
4. Flour Substitutes:
For All-Purpose Flour: Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder as a gluten-free thickener. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder with 2 tablespoons of water before adding it to the soup to avoid clumps.
5. Butter Substitutes:
For Butter: Use olive oil or coconut oil as a dairy-free alternative. For a more neutral flavor, try ghee or vegan butter.
6. Flavor Additions:
Add Extra Veggies: To enhance the flavor and nutritional content, incorporate carrots, celery, or even roasted bell peppers.
Spices: A pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika adds a nice kick. Try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a savory depth.
7. Chicken Broth Substitute:
Instead of Vegetable Broth: Use chicken broth for a richer flavor, or water with an extra pinch of salt and seasonings if you’re out of broth.
These substitutions allow you to customize the Broccoli Cheddar Soup to your preferences or dietary needs while still enjoying a delicious, comforting meal.
Does This Taste Like Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
This recipe is similar to Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup but with a few twists to elevate the flavor. It has the same creamy, cheesy texture and comforting taste, but using fresh ingredients like sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of garlic gives it a more robust flavor profile.
You’ll get the familiar coziness of Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup but with a richer depth of flavor and a homemade touch that makes it even more delicious. It’s like Panera’s favorite soup but with a little extra love in every spoonful!
