This Broccoli Cheese Soup is warm, creamy, and cheesy—just the comfort food you need! It’s packed with tender broccoli and melted cheese, making each spoonful deliciously rich.
It’s super easy to whip up, too! I love to serve this soup with some fresh bread for dipping. Trust me, one bowl won’t be enough! 🥣🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli has the best flavor and texture, but frozen florets work great when fresh isn’t available. I often keep frozen broccoli on hand for quick meals.
Onion: A small yellow onion adds sweetness to the soup. If you’re short on onions, shallots or leeks can be a nice substitute, giving a slightly different twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is classic for this soup thanks to its strong flavor. If you want something milder, try using medium cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack.
Milk and Cream: Whole milk makes the soup creamy, but you can substitute with low-fat milk. For a lighter version, use only milk or any plant-based milk. Just be mindful of its flavor.
Broth: Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian version. Homemade broth can enhance the flavor significantly if you have it!
How Do I Create a Creamy Texture in My Soup?
Getting that creamy texture is all about combining your ingredients just right. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect consistency:
- Start by making a roux with butter and flour. This acts as a thickener, so don’t rush it! Cook for 1-2 mins to get rid of the floury taste.
- Slowly whisk in your broth and liquids (milk and cream) to prevent lumps. Keep stirring for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
- Blend part of the soup with an immersion blender to create a smooth base while still keeping some broccoli pieces intact for texture.
- Finally, stir in the cheddar cheese slowly to ensure it melts perfectly without clumping.
These steps will help ensure your soup is creamy and satisfying! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasonings and Toppings:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for slight warmth and color)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious broccoli cheese soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. You’ll have a warm, comforting soup ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This will create the flavorful base for your soup!
2. Create the Roux:
Next, sprinkle the flour over the butter mixture. Stir well to combine everything. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly to avoid any burning. This roux will help thicken your soup later on.
3. Add the Liquids:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, taking care to smooth out any lumps. Then add the milk and cream. Keep stirring until the mixture starts to thicken, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You’ll see it become creamier!
4. Add the Broccoli and Seasonings:
Now, toss in the broccoli florets along with the salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg if you’re using it. Reduce the heat and let everything simmer gently. Cook until the broccoli is tender, about 10-15 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Blend for Texture:
Using an immersion blender (or a regular blender if you prefer), blend part of the soup to your desired consistency. It’s nice to leave some broccoli pieces whole for a bit of texture.
6. Stir in the Cheese:
Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the soup and creates a smooth, cheesy goodness! Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheese on top. Serve with some crusty bread or rolls to soak up all that creamy soup goodness!
This creamy and flavorful broccoli cheese soup is sure to warm you up on a chilly day. Enjoy every spoonful! 🥦🧀
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great in this recipe. Just add it directly to the soup during the cooking time, as it’s already blanched. The flavor and texture will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the soup and let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
What Cheese Can I Substitute for Cheddar?
If you don’t have cheddar, you can use other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses. Just be mindful of the flavor—milder cheeses might yield a different taste profile.
How Do I Thicken the Soup If It’s Too Thin?
If your soup is not thick enough, you can mix a little more flour with some broth to make a slurry and stir it back into the soup while it’s simmering. Alternatively, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken naturally.