Picture this: You come home after a long day, and the first thing you want is something warm and cozy. There’s nothing quite like a big bowl of broccoli cheddar soup to wrap you in a hug of comfort and flavor. This recipe is pure magic in a bowl—creamy without needing a drop of cream!
You know the rich, cheesy goodness of traditional broccoli cheddar soup that warms your soul? We’re bringing you that delightful experience while keeping it simple enough for a cozy weeknight meal. Plus, it’s loaded with bright green broccoli, which means it’s a feast for the eyes and your tummy! Close your eyes, and you can almost smell the sweet onions sizzling, the earthy garlic, and that sharp cheddar melting together. And doing all this is a breeze!
Not to mention, it’s an ideal option for those of us balancing busy days while wanting to eat well. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this soup in no time. Dinner is sorted, and your kitchen will smell heavenly. So, are you ready to dive into this creamy goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
There are plenty of reasons to love broccoli cheddar soup, but let’s highlight a few key ones. First, it’s creamy without needing heavy cream. Instead, we use milk to create that lush texture that soothes and satisfies. Second, it’s fast! You can get dinner on the table in about 30 minutes.
And if you’re someone who loves meal prepping, you’re in luck. This soup stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a festive gathering with family, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy!
Benefits of Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
- Speed: Quick and easy to prepare in about 30 minutes.
- Texture: Creamy and satisfying without heavy dairy.
- Pantry-friendly: Uses common ingredients you likely already have.
- Meal-prep friendly: Stores well for leftovers or make-ahead meals.
- Versatile: Great for lunch, dinner, or a cozy snack.
- Healthy: Packed with broccoli for those veggie vibes.
- Customizable: Add your favorite spices or toppings!
Essential Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – For richness and flavor.
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped) – Sweet and aromatic base.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt – Enhances flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper – Adds warmth and depth.
- 3 garlic cloves (chopped) – Provides a fragrant, savory kick.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the soup nicely.
- 2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk – Creamy texture.
- 2 cups vegetable broth – Infuses flavor into the soup.
- 3 cups chopped broccoli florets – Bright and nutritious!
- 1 large carrot (julienned or finely chopped) – Adds color and sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard – A little zing for flavor.
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 heaping cups) – The star of the show!
- Homemade croutons (optional) – Perfect for topping and crunch.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Phase 1 – Prep
- Gather all your ingredients and chop the onion, garlic, broccoli, and carrot.
- Measure out the flour, cheese, milk, and vegetable broth.
- Set everything out so it’s easy to grab as you cook.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, sea salt, and black pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the vegetable broth and milk, letting it come to a gentle boil.
- Add the chopped broccoli florets and carrots, lowering heat to simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the veggies are tender.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard and shredded cheddar until melted and combined.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper.
- Top with homemade croutons if desired.
- Enjoy while it’s warm, with a piece of crusty bread or a simple salad on the side!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Cheese choice: Opt for sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor.
- Broccoli: Use fresh broccoli for the best texture, but frozen works in a pinch.
- Storage: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Thickening: For a smoother texture, blend part of the soup before adding the cheese.
- Adding spices: Consider adding nutmeg or red pepper flakes for an extra flavor boost.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking broccoli too long can leave it mushy and detract from the vibrant color. Make sure to check it periodically as it simmers.
Using cold liquids in hot soup can cause lumps. Always go for room temperature or warmer liquids when adding to the mix.
Rushing the cheese addition can lead to clumpy soup. Stir it in slowly over low heat for a velvety finish.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour for thickening.
- Dairy-free: Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast and use almond milk.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for heat.
- Herbal: Stir in fresh thyme or parsley just before serving.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Best Pairings: Serve with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or a cheese toastie.
- Toppings: Enhance with a sprinkle of extra cheddar, fresh herbs, or crunchy croutons.
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes, this soup is great for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge and tastes amazing the next day.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the soup cool before sealing.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. However, the texture might change slightly after thawing, so be aware of that when reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally for 5-10 minutes. In the microwave, heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of broccoli?
Yes! Swap broccoli for frozen cauliflower for a similar texture and flavor.
How to make it extra creamy without cream?
Use a higher ratio of cheese or blend the soup to make it smooth and rich.
Can I double it?
Absolutely! This soup is easily scalable; just adjust your cooking pot size.
How to fix a too-thick soup?
Add a bit more broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
This flavorful broccoli cheddar soup not only warms your soul but brings smiles to the table, too! Give this recipe a try tonight, and let me know how it turns out. If you love it, why not share your thoughts or explore some of my other cozy soup recipes? Enjoy!