The Best Creamy & Easy Homemade Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of homemade broccoli cheese soup to chase away the chill of a brisk day. This classic recipe delivers on all fronts, featuring generous amounts of rich cheddar cheese, tender florets of broccoli, finely diced onion, and sweet shredded carrots, all simmered together in a thick, velvety smooth, and incredibly creamy base. It’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a delightful lunch. Forget the canned versions or restaurant drive-thrus; making this soup from scratch is surprisingly simple and yields a flavor that’s incomparable.
Why This Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is a Must-Try
The timeless allure of broccoli paired with melted, gooey cheese is undeniably the star of this comforting soup. This broccoli cheese soup recipe is precisely what its name implies, elevated with a thoughtful blend of seasonings, vibrant shredded carrots, aromatic chopped onion, and a few other simple ingredients that seamlessly bind it all together into a harmonious symphony of flavors. It’s a quintessential fall and winter classic that consistently garners rave reviews from everyone who tries it. Its rich, savory profile and velvety texture make it an instant favorite, providing warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.
What makes this particular recipe stand out is its perfect balance of wholesome vegetables and indulgent cheese, creating a dish that feels both nutritious and utterly decadent. The preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can combine to produce extraordinary results. If you find yourself captivated by the delightful duo of broccoli and cheese as much as we are, you’ll certainly want to explore this fantastic broccoli casserole recipe for another cheesy, veggie-packed delight.
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Broccoli Soup
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delectable homemade broccoli cheese soup. You’ll find all precise measurements, a comprehensive list of ingredients, and detailed instructions in the convenient printable version of this recipe located at the end of this post. For now, let’s dive into some key ingredient insights to help you prepare the best possible soup.
Ingredient Spotlight & Expert Substitution Advice
Every ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture for your broccoli cheese soup. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how you can adapt the recipe to your preferences:
CHEESE – While we opted for mild cheddar cheese for its classic, universally loved flavor, don’t hesitate to experiment with sharp or extra sharp cheddar for a more pronounced, tangy cheese profile. The most critical tip for optimal melt and taste is to **shred the cheese fresh from a block yourself**. Avoid using pre-shredded packaged cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents and preservatives like cellulose. These additives can inhibit proper melting, resulting in a soup that is less smooth, potentially gritty, and doesn’t have that desirable luxurious consistency. Freshly shredded cheese melts beautifully and integrates seamlessly into the creamy base, elevating the entire dish. You can also mix in a bit of Gruyere or even a touch of cream cheese for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
VEGETABLES – You’ll need 1 pound of broccoli florets. For the best possible flavor, vibrant color, and ideal texture, we strongly recommend using fresh broccoli. Its crispness and natural sweetness truly shine in this soup. If fresh broccoli isn’t available or if you’re looking for a shortcut, frozen broccoli can be used; however, ensure you allow it to thaw completely before adding it to the pot to prevent excess water from thinning your soup. Feel free to adjust the amount of broccoli to your liking – a bit more can add extra nutritional value and heartiness. The shredded carrots provide a lovely natural sweetness and a pop of color; these can be hand-shredded for freshness or conveniently purchased pre-shredded from the store. Finally, chopped onion and minced garlic are fundamental for building a robust flavor base. Their aromatic qualities are essential, though you can omit the garlic if you prefer a milder taste, or add an extra clove for a more intense garlicky kick.
HALF AND HALF – This dairy superstar is the secret to achieving the incredibly rich, thick, and velvety texture that defines this soup. Its balanced fat content provides the perfect creaminess without being overly heavy. We highly recommend sticking with half and half if at all possible. However, if it’s unavailable, you can substitute it with whole milk. Do note that using whole milk will result in a slightly thinner soup with a less opulent mouthfeel. For an even richer soup, heavy cream can be used, which will yield an extra-thick and luxurious consistency, but also add more calories and fat. Avoid skim milk, as it won’t provide the necessary richness for this style of soup.
STOCK – Whether you choose chicken stock or vegetable stock, ensure it’s a good quality brand for the best flavor. Chicken stock tends to add a deeper, more savory background, while vegetable stock makes the recipe suitable for vegetarians without compromising on taste. Low-sodium varieties are always a good choice, allowing you to control the salt content precisely.
FLOUR – All-purpose flour acts as a thickening agent, creating a roux with the butter that forms the creamy base of the soup. It’s essential for achieving that restaurant-quality thickness.
SEASONINGS – Salt, black pepper, and paprika are the core seasonings. Paprika adds a subtle warmth and beautiful color. Feel free to adjust these to your taste. A pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the cheesy flavor, and a dash of cayenne pepper can introduce a gentle heat if you like a little spice.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are designed to help you visualize each stage of making this incredibly satisfying broccoli cheese soup. For a quick reference or to print, you can Jump to Recipe to access the complete printable version, featuring all precise measurements and instructions at the bottom of this post.
- Begin by placing a 5.5 quart dutch oven or a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely, ensuring it coats the bottom of the pot. Once melted, add the finely diced yellow onions. Sauté the onions for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and fragrant, softening beautifully without browning.
- Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Continue to sauté for just another 1 minute, stirring constantly. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter very quickly. Burning the garlic can overpower the delicate flavors of the soup.
- Now, it’s time to build the base of your soup. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika directly over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the flour is thoroughly incorporated and cooks out its raw taste. This step creates a roux, which is essential for thickening the soup and providing a rich, savory foundation.
- Slowly and gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, stirring constantly with a whisk to prevent any lumps from forming. Make sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the pot to lift any flavorful bits that may have stuck. Continue to stir occasionally for about 5 minutes, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle simmer and begin to thicken.
- Add the fresh broccoli florets and shredded carrots to the pot. Stir to combine all the vegetables with the broth. Cover the dutch oven and allow the soup to simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender when pierced with a fork but still retains a slight bite. The carrots should also be tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking the vegetables to maintain their texture and nutritional integrity.
- Remove the pot from the heat. This is a crucial step to prevent the dairy from curdling. Stir in the half and half and your freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to stir gently until all the cheese has completely melted into the soup, creating a smooth, luscious, and homogenous consistency. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
- Serve your rich and creamy homemade broccoli cheese soup immediately. For an extra touch of indulgence, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of additional freshly shredded cheese, perhaps some crispy bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy this comforting classic!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Soup
Once prepared, your delicious broccoli cheese soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For best results, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to the container. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently, or in the microwave in short intervals, to prevent the dairy from separating or scorching. Adding a splash of milk or broth can help restore its creamy consistency if it has thickened too much.
Freezing dairy-based soups like this broccoli cheese soup is generally not recommended. The high dairy content (half and half, cheese) tends to separate and change texture upon thawing and reheating, often becoming grainy or curdled. This can significantly impact both the flavor and thickness you worked hard to achieve. The soup will likely lose its smooth, creamy consistency and some of its vibrant taste. If you’re determined to try freezing it, aim for a shorter freezer time of 1-2 months, stored in an airtight, freezer-safe container. To potentially minimize separation, you could try freezing the soup base *before* adding the half and half and cheese, then incorporating them fresh upon reheating. However, for the ultimate experience, it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Additional Expert Tips for Success:
- **Achieve Ultimate Smoothness:** If you prefer an extra-smooth, velvety soup, consider using an immersion blender directly in the pot after the soup is fully cooked and the cheese has melted. Blend until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to over-blend if you like some small pieces of broccoli to remain.
- **Season to Perfection:** Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasonings. You might find it needs a little more salt, pepper, or even a dash of garlic powder or a pinch of onion powder to deepen the flavors. A tiny bit of mustard powder can also enhance the cheese flavor.
- **Make it Vegetarian:** To easily convert this into a vegetarian broccoli cheese soup, simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. All other ingredients are already plant-based (excluding the dairy, of course).
- **Add More Veggies:** Don’t limit yourself to just broccoli and carrots! Consider adding a handful of chopped celery with the onions, or even some finely diced potatoes for a heartier texture.
- **Prevent Curdling:** Remember to remove the soup from direct heat before adding the half and half and cheese. High heat can cause dairy to curdle, resulting in an undesirable texture. Gentle heat and constant stirring are key for a smooth finish.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Cheese Soup
While this homemade broccoli cheese soup is undeniably fantastic on its own, a few thoughtful additions can transform it into an even more spectacular meal. Top your bowl of rich, creamy soup with an extra sprinkle of freshly shredded cheddar cheese for good measure – because can you ever have too much cheese? For an added layer of flavor and texture, crispy bacon bits are a popular choice, offering a smoky, salty crunch that perfectly complements the creamy soup. Crumbled crackers, like Ritz or oyster crackers, provide a delightful texture contrast, or you can opt for homemade croutons for a gourmet touch. Cubed, roasted potatoes or even leftover ham can be stirred in to make the soup heartier and more substantial.
Beyond toppings, consider what you’re serving alongside your soup. It pairs beautifully with a simple crusty bread or soft dinner rolls for dipping. For a light yet refreshing contrast, a fresh green salad is an excellent choice. And for a truly memorable experience, take a page from your favorite cafe and serve this luxurious soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. The edible vessel not only looks impressive but also allows you to soak up every last drop of that cheesy goodness.
Explore More Comforting Soup Recipes
If you love the warmth and satisfaction that a good soup brings, you’re in for a treat! We have a wide array of delicious and easy-to-make soup recipes that are perfect for any season or occasion. From hearty stews to light broths, there’s a soup for every craving. Dive into our collection and discover your next family favorite:
- Hearty Taco Soup
- Classic Minestrone Soup
- Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup
- Irresistible Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup
- Flavorful Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup
- Rich Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Delicious Cheeseburger Soup
- Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
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Broccoli Cheese Soup
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 lb broccoli florets chopped into bite sized pieces
- 1 cup carrot shredded
- 1 cup half and half
- 8 oz cheddar cheese mild, sharp, or extra sharp yellow cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Equipment You’ll Need
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5.5 quart Dutch Oven (or a large, heavy-bottomed pot)
Important Notes & Pro Tips Before You Begin
- For those who prefer an incredibly smooth and silky soup texture, feel free to use an immersion blender to blend the finished soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer portions of the soup to a regular blender and process until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- To achieve the ultimate creamy and rich consistency, we highly recommend using half and half. If it’s not available, whole milk can be substituted, but please be aware that the soup may be slightly thinner in texture.
- A crucial tip for the best flavor and melt is to shred your cheese fresh from a block. Pre-packaged shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting smoothly and may result in a grainy soup texture.
Instructions
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In a 5.5 quart Dutch oven or large pot, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once fully melted, add the diced yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent.
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Stir in the 2 cloves of minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Sprinkle the ¼ cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp paprika into the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic, and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the liquid and cook out its raw taste, forming a roux.
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Slowly pour in the 3 cups of chicken or vegetable stock while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Stir occasionally as the soup gently simmers for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
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Add the 1 lb broccoli florets and 1 cup shredded carrots to the pot. Cover and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the broccoli and carrots are tender when pierced, but still have a slight bite.
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Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the 1 cup of half and half and the 8 oz of freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until all the cheese has completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
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Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese, if desired.
Nutrition Information
The recipes on this blog are meticulously tested using a conventional gas oven and a gas stovetop. Please be aware that cooking appliances, particularly older models, can sometimes heat and bake inconsistently. To ensure optimal results, utilizing an inexpensive oven thermometer can help verify that your oven is consistently reaching the precise temperature required. If you opt to use a toaster oven or a countertop oven, keep in mind that their heat distribution might differ from a standard full-sized oven, potentially necessitating adjustments to your cooking or baking times. For recipes that specify a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other specialized appliances, a link to the specific models we utilize is provided within each respective recipe. In the case of baking recipes where ingredient measurements are given by weight, it’s important to note that substituting with cup measurements may yield different results, and we cannot guarantee success with alternative measuring methods.