Name: Broccoli and Cheese Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup milk or cream; 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free); Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: pinch of nutmeg for depth

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If you’re hunting for the ultimate bowl of comfort, look no further than Broccoli and Cheese Soup. This creamy classic transforms humble ingredients into a luxuriously velvety soup bursting with flavor from vibrant broccoli and melty sharp cheddar. Each spoonful is rich, satisfying, and carries a touch of nostalgia, making it a favorite for both busy weeknights and cozy weekends. Whether you’re a passionate cheese lover or a veggie fan looking for a filling meal, this hearty dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

Broccoli and Cheese Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Broccoli and Cheese Soup lies in how a handful of everyday essentials come together to create such a harmonious flavor. Each ingredient plays a supporting role, bringing out the best textures, colors, and comfort that this soup delivers.

Butter: Adds a luscious richness and ensures your onion and garlic sauté perfectly for maximum flavor.
Onion (1 small, diced): Provides a savory base that gives depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Lends aromatic warmth and a subtle kick that balances the creaminess beautifully.
Broccoli florets (4 cups): The vibrant, nutritious star that turns the soup a gorgeous green and brings texture.
Vegetable broth (2 cups): Infuses savory notes and keeps the soup light yet flavorful.
Milk or cream (1 cup): Offers silky creaminess; use cream for extra indulgence or milk for a lighter version.
Sharp cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded): Melts into the soup, creating those signature cheesy strands and tang.
Flour or cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Acts as a gentle thickener, making sure the soup is perfectly velvety (choose cornstarch for gluten-free).
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste, bringing the flavors together in perfect balance.
Nutmeg (optional, a pinch): Adds a warm, nutty undertone for extra depth and a subtle surprise.

How to Make Broccoli and Cheese Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start your Broccoli and Cheese Soup by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and minced garlic, letting them gently sizzle for about 3 to 4 minutes. You’re aiming for soft, translucent onion and fragrant garlic, which lay the foundation for layers of savory flavor.

Step 2: Create a Velvet Base

Sprinkle the flour (or cornstarch for the gluten-free crew) into the pan. Stir it around for a minute so it loses any raw taste—this step is your secret to that delightfully thick soup. Next, pour in the vegetable broth, scraping the bottom of the pan so any golden bits dissolve. Bring this to a gentle simmer and watch the magic start to happen.

Step 3: Simmer the Broccoli

Now add in all those fresh broccoli florets! Cover the pot and let everything cook for 10 to 12 minutes. The broccoli will turn a stunning, bright green and become perfectly tender—just right for that classic Broccoli and Cheese Soup texture.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess

When the broccoli is tender, it’s time to blend. Take an immersion blender and pulse right in the pot until the soup’s consistency is mostly smooth but still has some little pieces for interest. Prefer your soup extra silky? Blend a little more, or transfer half to a blender and blitz until smooth, then pour it back in.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Make it Luscious

Reduce your heat to low, and stir in the milk (or cream) and all that glorious shredded cheddar cheese. Let the cheese melt and swirl into every spoonful, then taste and season with salt, pepper, and a dash of nutmeg if you’re feeling fancy. Serve the Broccoli and Cheese Soup warm, letting the cheesy aromas draw everyone to the table.

How to Serve Broccoli and Cheese Soup

Garnishes

Dress up each bowl with a little extra love! Sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar on top so it melts into a gooey layer, or drop a few crisp croutons for crunch. A handful of finely chopped parsley, chives, or a swirl of cream adds a touch of color that makes the soup look (and taste) even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

This soup plays well with so many sides. Try it with hearty slices of toasted artisan bread or a warm baguette, or serve alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a zippy vinaigrette for a balanced meal. For even more comfort, pair Broccoli and Cheese Soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich—pure bliss!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining or just want to make dinner feel extra special, serve this soup in homemade bread bowls. Smaller portions in shot glasses with mini cheese toasts make perfect party starters. Or, ladle Broccoli and Cheese Soup into mugs for a fireside meal—no utensils required!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Broccoli and Cheese Soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to four days, making it an ideal meal prep option for busy weeks. The flavor gets even better after a day, so don’t hesitate to enjoy those leftovers!

Freezing

Broccoli and Cheese Soup can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly since dairy can sometimes become a bit grainy when thawed. For best results, let the soup cool fully, pour into freezer-safe containers leaving a little room to expand, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

When ready to reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent the cheese from separating. If the soup looks thick, splash in a little milk to bring back the original creamy consistency. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring often.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great for Broccoli and Cheese Soup—there’s no need to thaw first, just add it straight to the simmering broth and cook until tender. You may need to extend the simmering time by a couple of minutes.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Simply swap the flour for an equal amount of cornstarch to thicken the soup, and check that your broth and cheese are certified gluten-free. You’ll still get the same rich and creamy result!

What type of cheddar works best?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice for Broccoli and Cheese Soup, but extra sharp cheddar brings even more pronounced flavor. For a milder taste, feel free to use medium cheddar, or experiment with smoked cheese or a blend for a fun twist.

How do I avoid grainy cheese?

For a flawlessly smooth soup, shred your cheddar from a block (pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents). Stir the cheese in over very low heat to prevent separating, letting it melt gently for the silkiest texture.

Can I add other veggies?

Yes! Carrots, cauliflower, or spinach all make delicious additions. Just chop and sauté or simmer them alongside the broccoli for a more colorful, veggie-packed Broccoli and Cheese Soup.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about sharing a pot of homemade Broccoli and Cheese Soup with family or friends—it’s cozy, delicious, and so easy to make. Give this recipe a try and let it become your go-to comfort dish for chilly evenings and busy days alike!