Description
Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy and comforting one-pot meal featuring tender broccoli florets simmered in a rich broth, enhanced with cream cheese, heavy cream, and melted sharp cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make soup delivers a warm, satisfying flavor with a velvety texture, perfect for chilly days or when you crave a hearty lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Liquids & Broth
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Chop the broccoli into small florets and dice the onion, carrots, and celery, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Broccoli: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the chopped broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until the broccoli is tender, about 15 minutes.
- Add Creams and Cheeses: Stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese until fully incorporated and smooth. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and creamy.
- Season Soup: Mix in Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Allow the soup to simmer gently for a few more minutes to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, optionally topped with extra shredded cheddar cheese for added richness.
Notes
- For a thicker texture, partially blend the soup using an immersion blender.
- Frozen broccoli can be used instead of fresh; add it directly to the simmering broth.
- Add cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or diced ham for extra protein.
- Substitute part of the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Parmesan for varied flavor profiles.
- To keep the soup lower in carbs, reduce or omit carrots and consider low-carb thickeners.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently without boiling.
- Freezing is possible but may slightly change the texture; reheat gently and stir well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
