When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup to chase away the cold. This hearty and cheesy soup is packed with fresh vegetables and sharp cheddar, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing starter, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit. Follow this simple recipe to bring the rich, comforting taste of a classic broccoli cheddar soup to your table!
Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- 2 cups fresh broccoli (200 g): cut into small florets
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable stock (600 ml): or substitute with low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons butter (40 g)
- 1/2 large white onion: about 1 1/2 cups (225 g), chopped
- 1 large celery stalk (75 g): finely chopped
- 1 cup carrots (130 g): finely chopped
- 1 large garlic clove: pressed
- 1/4 cup unbleached all-purpose flour (30 g)
- 2 cups cold half-and-half (480 ml)
- 2 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese (250 g)
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste (mixed peppercorns recommended)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (0.5 g): or adjust to taste
- 1/4 cup milk (60 ml): optional, if necessary to adjust consistency
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Step 1: Cook the Broccoli
In a large pot over medium heat, simmer the broccoli in the vegetable stock for 20 minutes or until tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Onion Mixture
While the broccoli simmers, heat a skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter, then add the chopped onions. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.
Add the celery and carrots to the skillet and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the pressed garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture, stirring well to form a paste-like consistency. Gradually add the cold half-and-half, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture starts to thicken.
Step 4: Combine and Add Cheese
Pour the thickened onion mixture into the pot with the simmered broccoli and broth. Stir well to combine.
Add the grated cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, stirring constantly between each addition until the cheese melts completely. Be careful not to let the soup boil, as high heat can cause the cheese to separate.
Step 5: Season and Adjust
Season the soup with freshly ground black pepper and cayenne pepper, adjusting to taste. If the soup is too thick, stir in the optional milk to reach your preferred consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy broccoli cheddar soup immediately, paired with crusty bread, garlic toast, or crackers for dipping. Its rich, cheesy flavor makes it a perfect standalone meal or a side dish for a larger dinner spread.
Broccoli cheddar soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the goodness of fresh vegetables with the creamy richness of sharp cheddar cheese. This recipe is simple enough for beginners and satisfying enough for seasoned cooks.
Make a big batch for a family dinner, or enjoy leftovers the next day—the flavors only get better! Prepare this comforting dish and let its warm, savory taste turn any cold evening into a cozy delight. Bon appétit!
