Description
A warm, creamy, and hearty broccoli cheddar soup made with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, aromatic onion and garlic, and a rich creamy base. This comforting soup is perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika, optional
- 1 medium carrot, grated, optional
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
- Gradually whisk in the broth, followed by the milk and heavy cream. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the broccoli and grated carrot, if using. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender. Do not let the soup boil vigorously.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender briefly, leaving some broccoli pieces for texture.
- Serve warm with extra shredded cheddar, if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheddar for the smoothest melting texture.
- Sharp cheddar gives the soup a stronger, more traditional cheese flavor.
- Avoid boiling after adding the cheese, as high heat can cause the cheese to separate.
- For a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with additional milk.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup, Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: roccoli cheddar soup, creamy broccoli soup, broccoli cheese soup, cheesy broccoli soup, homemade broccoli cheddar soup, easy soup recipe