Delicious bowl of creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup topped with cheese and fresh broccoli

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and creamy dish that warms your soul. It’s perfect for a chilly day or when you need a quick and easy meal. This soup not only tastes great but also provides you with vitamins and nutrients from the broccoli and carrots. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables while indulging in cheesy goodness!

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 garlic cloves (chopped)
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
  • 1 large carrot (julienned or finely chopped)
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 heaping cups)
  • Homemade croutons (for serving, optional)

Directions:

  1. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, salt, and several grinds of pepper. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the flour turns golden.
  5. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking.
  6. Add the broth, broccoli, carrot, and mustard. Stir to combine.
  7. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
  8. Gradually add the cheese, stirring after each addition until all the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
  9. Season to taste and serve with croutons, if desired.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

You can serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot, garnished with homemade croutons for extra crunch. It goes well with crusty bread or a side salad to complete your meal. Enjoy it in a bowl or a mug for a cozy, casual dining experience.

How to Store Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool and then store it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little milk or broth to help restore its creamy texture.

Tips to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup

  • Make sure to chop the broccoli into small, even pieces for quicker cooking.
  • Don’t rush the cheese melting; stir gradually to keep the soup creamy.
  • Feel free to add spices like paprika or crushed red pepper for an extra kick.

Variation

You can easily customize this soup. Try adding cooked chicken for added protein, or swap out the cheddar for other cheese like gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor. You can also add other vegetables, like spinach or peas, for more variety.

FAQs

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and unsweetened almond milk to make it vegan.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw it and drain excess water before adding.

How can I thicken the soup more?
To thicken the soup, you can add more flour or let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken naturally. Adding a bit of potato can also help.