When the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup to wrap your hands around. On a particularly brisk afternoon, I found myself craving something comforting yet quick to prepare, and this gem quickly became my go-to. The rich, velvety texture, coupled with the sharpness of cheddar and the earthiness of broccoli, creates a delightful harmony that lifts your spirits with each spoonful.
Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen—the melting cheese blending gracefully with the sautéed onions and garlic—not just a dish but a warm embrace on a cold day. Whether you’re whipping this up for a cozy night in or entertaining unexpected guests, it promises to please even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and can be ready in just 30 minutes! So put on your apron and let’s dive into this easy, comforting classic that’s sure to become a staple in your home as it has in mine!
Why is Broccoli Cheddar Soup a must-try?
Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing better than wrapping your hands around a steaming bowl of this creamy soup on a chilly day.
Quick and Easy: Whip up this deliciousness in just 30 minutes with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights!
Rich, Velvety Texture: The combination of melted cheddar and tender broccoli creates a luxurious mouthfeel that’s simply irresistible.
Customizable Delight: Add your favorite proteins or veggies for a personal touch, ensuring it enjoys a spot on your winter menu.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: This dish appeals to everyone, even picky eaters—who can say no to cheese? Dive into this Broccoli Cheddar Soup for the ultimate comfort!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients
• Delicious components for the ultimate comfort.
For the Base
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- Medium Yellow Onion – Builds the base flavor; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- Sea Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to your dietary needs.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat; use white pepper for a milder flavor.
- Garlic Cloves – Provides aromatic depth; fresh garlic is preferred for the best flavor.
For Thickness
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates a roux for thickness; cornstarch can be an excellent gluten-free alternative.
For Creaminess
- Whole Milk or Unsweetened Almond Milk – Creates creaminess; any dairy-free milk can work beautifully for a vegan option.
- Vegetable Broth – Adds umami depth; chicken broth is a suitable substitute for non-vegetarian lovers.
For the Veggies
- Chopped Broccoli Florets – The star vegetable; opt for frozen broccoli for convenience.
- Large Carrot – Adds sweetness and color; can be omitted if desired.
For Flavor Boost
- Dijon Mustard – Enhances flavors with a tangy kick; yellow mustard can be substituted if needed.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – The main cheesy component; sharp cheddar adds character, or mix with Gruyere for complexity.
Optional Topping
- Homemade Croutons – Great for added crunch; feel free to use store-bought or omit for a lighter soup.
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a simple, yet gourmet, recipe that promises to warm your heart and soul!
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Sauté Base: Melt the unsalted butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and salt, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Make Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour, whisking for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.
Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the whole milk or unsweetened almond milk, followed by the vegetable broth. Let this mixture come to a gentle simmer.
Incorporate Veggies: Add in the chopped broccoli florets, diced carrot, and Dijon mustard. Simmer away for 15-20 minutes until the veggies are tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Melt Cheese: Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Optional: For an extra crunch, top with homemade croutons before serving!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Variations
Feel free to elevate your soup by exploring these delightful variations that allow your creativity to shine!
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery kick that warms you from the inside out. Spice lovers will relish the extra heat!
Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken or diced ham for a heartier soup that will satisfy your hunger. This protein twist transforms it into a filling meal.
Veggie Medley: Swap out broccoli for cauliflower or add peas for a vibrant and colorful soup. Each vegetable brings its unique flavor, making your soup versatile and fun!
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the cheese with nutritional yeast and use coconut milk for a vegan take that doesn’t skimp on creaminess. It’s a tasty alternative for plant-based eaters!
Garlic Lover: Increase sautéed garlic to two or three cloves for an extra layer of fragrant goodness. The aroma will turn your kitchen into a cozy haven.
Cream Cheese Addition: Blend in a few ounces of cream cheese for a dreamy, richer texture that adds a delightful tang. It’s like a hug for your taste buds!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving for a burst of fresh flavor that brightens up every spoonful. This simple addition can elevate your comfort food!
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or crushed walnuts to introduce a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. Each bite will surprise you!
Expert Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melt; pre-packaged versions often contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Right Consistency: If your soup thickens too much, add more milk or vegetable broth to achieve the desired creamy texture that a Broccoli Cheddar Soup should have.
Blend It Up: For a luxuriously velvety soup, consider blending a portion before adding the cheese, creating a delightful contrast between smooth and chunky textures.
Fresh Produce: Fresh broccoli and garlic make a noticeable difference in flavor. Opt for fresh ingredients whenever possible to enhance your soup.
Season to Taste: Always taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper levels to suit your preference, ensuring a perfectly seasoned Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Customize for Preference: Feel free to mix in any favorite vegetables like cauliflower or peas to make it your own, accommodating various tastes and dietary needs.
What to Serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
When you’re craving cozy comfort, side dishes to complement this creamy soup can elevate your meal to a delightful experience.
Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for sopping up every last drop, providing a satisfying crunch against the soup’s velvety texture.
Light Salad: A fresh side of mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup beautifully.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and savory, these are ideal for dipping and will make each bite of soup even more delectable.
Cornbread Muffins: Their slightly sweet, crumbly texture is a delightful contrast, rounding out the meal with a hint of southern comfort.
Steamed Green Beans: Bright and tender, the freshness of green beans adds a lovely pop of color and nutrients alongside your soup.
Homemade Croutons: Add an extra layer of crunch and flavor, making your Broccoli Cheddar Soup even more indulgent and satisfying.
Apple Crisp: For a sweet ending, this warm dessert offers a comforting finish without overpowering the flavors of your soup.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate perfectly between bites of creamy goodness.
How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Fridge: Store leftover broccoli cheddar soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Avoid Regrettable Texture: Avoid freezing the soup with cheese added; it can change the texture. Instead, add cheese fresh after reheating for the best results.
Make Ahead Options
These Broccoli Cheddar Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the broccoli and carrot up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, the base of the soup (butter, onions, garlic, and flour) can be sautéed ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When it’s time to enjoy your soup, simply reheat the sautéed base in a pot, whisk in the milk and broth, incorporate the pre-chopped veggies, and simmer until tender. Finish with the shredded cheese, stirring until melted for a creamy, delicious result that’s just as delightful as when freshly made!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli is best for this soup?
Absolutely! Fresh, vibrant broccoli florets are ideal for this soup as they provide great texture and flavor. If using frozen broccoli for convenience, make sure it’s thawed and drained well to avoid excess water in the soup.
How should I store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
To keep your soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature first to prevent condensation, which can dilute the flavor.
Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, you can! Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When freezing, leave about an inch of space at the top of the container to allow for expansion. Just remember to add cheese after reheating for the best texture!
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
Very! If your soup becomes too thick, you can easily adjust the consistency by adding more broth or milk when reheating. Start with a small amount, stirring well until you reach your desired creaminess.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
When it comes to allergies, this soup contains dairy and gluten due to the cheese and flour, which may be an issue for some. For pets, it’s best to avoid feeding them any human food that contains ingredients like onions or garlic, which can be harmful to them. Always check ingredient labels if you’re cooking for someone with allergies!
Can I use different types of cheese in my Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack to create a richer flavor profile. Mixing cheese varieties can add complexity and make your soup even more delightful!
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup in 30 Minutes or Less
Equipment
- - Dutch oven
Ingredients
For the Base
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- 1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt Adjust according to your dietary needs.
- 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Use white pepper for a milder flavor.
- 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is preferred for the best flavor.
For Thickness
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Cornstarch can be an excellent gluten-free alternative.
For Creaminess
- 2 cups Whole Milk Unsweetened almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
- 2 cups Vegetable Broth Chicken broth is a suitable substitute for non-vegetarians.
For the Veggies
- 4 cups Chopped Broccoli Florets Opt for frozen broccoli for convenience.
- 1 large Carrot Can be omitted if desired.
For Flavor Boost
- 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can be substituted if needed.
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Sharp cheddar adds character; mix with Gruyere for complexity.
Optional Topping
- 1 cup Homemade Croutons Feel free to use store-bought or omit for a lighter soup.
Instructions
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Melt the unsalted butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and salt, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour, whisking for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk or unsweetened almond milk, followed by the vegetable broth. Let this mixture come to a gentle simmer.
- Add in the chopped broccoli florets, diced carrot, and Dijon mustard. Simmer away for 15-20 minutes until the veggies are tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Top with homemade croutons before serving, if desired.