Creamy, comforting, and bursting with cheesy goodness, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is rich, hearty, and ready to warm you up in no time. A classic favorite that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy: Deliciously smooth with irresistible cheddar cheese flavor.
Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
Nutritious and Satisfying: Filled with healthy broccoli and rich ingredients that satisfy cravings.
Family-Friendly: Appeals to adults and children alike, making it a versatile meal option.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 large head of broccoli, chopped into florets
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish (optional)

directions

Sauté Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until the onion becomes translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
Cook Broccoli:
Add broccoli florets and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes.
Puree Soup:
Using an immersion blender (or traditional blender in batches), puree until smooth.
Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese, mixing gently until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
Season and Serve:
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheddar cheese, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a kick.
Additional Vegetables: Blend in carrots or cauliflower to boost nutrients.
Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream to reduce calories.

storage/reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent curdling. Add broth or cream to adjust consistency if needed.
Freezing: While possible to freeze, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. Blend again after reheating to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used directly; adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

What type of cheddar cheese is best?

Sharp cheddar is recommended for stronger flavor, but mild cheddar works well too.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely—use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I avoid curdling the cream?

Heat the cream gently and avoid boiling after adding it to the soup.

Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, though the soup will be less creamy. You may need extra cheese for thickness.

Can I add potatoes?

Yes, diced potatoes make a hearty addition; add them during the broccoli simmering stage.

Can I blend less for a chunkier soup?

Definitely. Pulse briefly or remove some broccoli pieces before blending for texture.

What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, breadsticks, or a crisp side salad.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but texture may be slightly grainy when reheated. Stir or blend after thawing.

Why is my cheese not melting smoothly?

Grate cheese freshly from a block; pre-shredded cheeses contain additives that affect melting.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish you’ll turn to again and again. Rich, creamy, and simple to prepare, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.