Is there anything more comforting than a bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup? This warm, creamy soup combines fresh broccoli, rich cheese, and a velvety broth into the ultimate comfort food. Whether it’s a chilly winter day, a busy weeknight, or you’re simply craving something satisfying, this soup has you covered. It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of nutrients, making it a perfect dish for everyone in the family.
Broccoli Cheese Soup has long been a favorite at home kitchens and in cozy restaurants. With its luscious texture and rich flavor, it’s easy to see why it’s so beloved. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity—fresh ingredients, a creamy base, and a cheesy finish that satisfies the soul with every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love Broccoli Cheese Soup
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Cheese Lovers Delight: The perfect blend of melted cheddar cheese and creamy broth creates a luscious, savory flavor.
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Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fresh broccoli, it’s a great way to sneak in those healthy greens.
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Customizable: Easy to make vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free by swapping ingredients.
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⏱️ Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes for a comforting weeknight dinner.
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Perfect Pairing: Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or even a side salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
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1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 large carrot, peeled and diced
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4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
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4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
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1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
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1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
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1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
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Add the minced garlic and diced carrot, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Broccoli and Broth
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Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes, letting them soften slightly.
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Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low and allow the soup to simmer for about 10–15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Step 3: Blend the Soup (Optional)
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For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot. Blending the soup creates a creamy consistency while still leaving some broccoli chunks for texture.
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If you prefer a chunkier soup, feel free to skip this step.
Step 4: Add the Dairy and Cheese
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Stir in the milk or heavy cream for a rich and creamy base.
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Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
Step 5: Season and Thicken (Optional)
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Season the soup with salt, pepper, ground mustard, and garlic powder to taste. Stir well.
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If you’d like a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the soup and simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the soup thickens.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
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Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra shredded cheese if desired.
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Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or chopped chives for added flavor and color.
Tips for Success
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Use fresh broccoli: While frozen broccoli works, fresh florets create a better texture and flavor.
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Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect the smoothness of the soup. Shred your own cheese for the creamiest result.
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Adjust the thickness: If the soup is too thick, simply add more broth or milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
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Make it spicier: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup.
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Make-ahead tip: Broccoli Cheese Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply reheat gently over low heat before serving.
Variations to Try
Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
Add diced potatoes to the soup for a heartier, more filling version. Simmer the potatoes with the broccoli and broth until tender, then blend part of the soup for a creamy texture.
Bacon-Topped Broccoli Cheese Soup
Top your soup with crispy bacon bits or crumbled sausage for added savory goodness. The smokiness from the bacon complements the creamy soup beautifully.
Vegan Broccoli Cheese Soup
Make a vegan version by substituting the milk and cheese with plant-based options such as coconut milk and vegan cheddar cheese. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a completely plant-based meal.
️ Spicy Broccoli Cheese Soup
Add some heat with diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to give your soup a spicy kick. You can also mix in a little chipotle powder for a smoky flavor.
Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli Cheese Soup
Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate, all of which support a healthy immune system and promote cell repair. Adding cheese provides calcium and protein, which are important for bone health and muscle maintenance. While this soup is creamy and comforting, you can also adjust it to suit your dietary needs by using lighter alternatives such as low-fat milk and cheese.
What to Serve With Broccoli Cheese Soup
Broccoli Cheese Soup pairs wonderfully with many dishes, making it a versatile meal for any occasion:
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Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of freshly baked baguette, sourdough, or garlic bread for dipping.
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Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For the ultimate comfort meal, pair your soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
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Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of milk or broth to loosen it up if needed.
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Freezer: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
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Freezing Tip: Be aware that freezing dairy-based soups can sometimes cause a change in texture, so it may be a bit less creamy when reheated. To remedy this, you can stir in a little extra cheese or milk when reheating.
Final Thoughts
Broccoli Cheese Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines hearty vegetables with creamy, cheesy goodness. This cozy dish is perfect for a chilly day, but it’s so delicious, you’ll want to make it all year long. Whether you’re feeding the family, hosting a casual dinner party, or meal prepping for the week, this soup checks all the boxes.
Make it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds (and thirds!). It’s a classic dish that never goes out of style—rich, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. So grab your pot, get your ingredients ready, and enjoy a bowl of this deliciously creamy soup today!
