If you’re ready to cozy up with the creamy comfort of Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’re in for a treat that’s lush, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. This beloved restaurant classic transforms everyday ingredients—think broccoli, carrots, sharp cheddar, and a rich cream base—into a velvety soup that hits all the right notes. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a lazy weekend lunch, you’ll love just how easy it is to recreate this soul-warming favorite at home.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Broccoli Cheddar Soup shines through in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one adds something special, from vibrant color to swoon-worthy creaminess, ensuring every spoonful is sheer joy.

Butter: Gives the soup its rich base and a silky mouthfeel—don’t skimp here!
Onion: Adds a gentle sweetness and a depth of flavor right from the start.
Garlic: Just a couple of cloves infuse the whole pot with irresistible savoriness.
All-purpose flour: This thickens the soup to the perfect creamy consistency.
Chicken or vegetable broth: The backbone of the flavor; use your favorite for best results.
Half-and-half (or whole milk): Lends that signature velvety creaminess—swap in whole milk for a lighter version.
Broccoli florets: The star ingredient, cut small for tender bites in every spoonful.
Carrots: Julienne or grate them for subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
Paprika: A pinch brings just the right hint of smoky warmth.
Ground nutmeg (optional): Adds a whisper of nutty complexity—optional, but delightful.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Shred it yourself for ultimate meltability and that classic cheesy punch.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add your diced onion and let it cook until soft and translucent, about four minutes. Then add the minced garlic and stir it around for just a minute—this wakes up its fragrance and flavors.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Scatter the flour over the butter, onion, and garlic mixture. Use a whisk to stir constantly for one to two minutes; this cooks off the raw flour taste and lays the foundation for a creamy soup that isn’t grainy.

Step 3: Whisk in Liquids

Slowly add in your broth and half-and-half, whisking as you go to keep things smooth. It may look thin at first, but with a bit of patience, you’ll see the mixture thicken up beautifully.

Step 4: Add Veggies and Seasonings

Next, pile in the chopped broccoli, grated carrots, paprika, and a pinch of nutmeg if you like a subtle aromatic depth. Simmer everything uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Step 5: Make It Cheesy and Creamy

Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, letting it melt slowly into the soup. Nothing beats the moment when the cheese transforms the pot into a rich, cheesy wonderland. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Ladle the Broccoli Cheddar Soup into bowls and top with a little extra cheese if you’re feeling bold. Pair with crusty bread or keep it simple—either way, it’ll be gone in a flash!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Garnishes

A hot bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup always looks (and tastes) better with a thoughtful garnish. Try sprinkling a little extra sharp cheddar on top, add a handful of snipped chives, or even some crispy bacon bits for an extra pop of flavor. Crack a few turns of fresh black pepper over the bowl, and you’ve got comfort food perfection.

Side Dishes

This soup shines with the simplest of sides. Think thick-cut slices of sourdough or a crusty baguette ready to soak up every last drop. For something a bit fresher, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness beautifully. If you’re feeling extra cozy, grilled cheese sandwiches are never a bad idea!

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests (or just yourself) by serving Broccoli Cheddar Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. For mini appetizers, try ladling small portions into espresso cups or shot glasses topped with microgreens. Or, keep it family-style with a big steaming pot at the center of the table—let everyone help themselves and top with their favorite garnishes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup? Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about three days. As it chills, the soup thickens up, so don’t be surprised if it looks a bit denser the next day—it’s still delicious!

Freezing

If you want to freeze your soup, those creamy elements can sometimes separate, but you can make it work! Let the Broccoli Cheddar Soup cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it gently overnight in the fridge for the smoothest texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat your soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly. Add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up as it warms. If you’re using the microwave, heat in short bursts and stir often so the cheese doesn’t separate. Either way, it’ll be just as comforting as when you first made it.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheddar cheese for Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can, but for the dreamiest, smoothest melt, shred your cheddar fresh. Most pre-shredded cheeses have anti-caking agents that keep them from melting as seamlessly into your soup.

Is this soup vegetarian?

If you use vegetable broth and double-check your cheese (some cheeses use animal rennet), Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be a fantastic vegetarian meal.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch, and you’ll have a creamy soup everyone can enjoy, no matter their dietary needs.

How do I make the soup extra creamy?

For an even silkier finish, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender before stirring in the cheese. It’ll thicken up nicely while still leaving a few hearty broccoli pieces for texture.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without separating?

Low and slow is key! Warm the soup gently on the stove while stirring, and add a little splash of broth or milk if it needs loosening. This helps the cheese stay perfectly creamy.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t experienced the joy of making Broccoli Cheddar Soup in your own kitchen, now is the perfect time. Each bite delivers warmth, comfort, and a burst of fresh, cheesy flavor. Give it a try—you might just find this soup becomes a staple in your comfort food rotation!