Name: Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (about 1 medium onion); 1-1/2 teaspoons minced garlic; 6 cups chopped broccoli, cut into bite-size pieces; 2 cups shredded carrots; 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 3/4 teaspoon ground mustard; 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste (approximately 1 teaspoon salt total); 1 bay leaf (optional); 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 32 ounces reduced-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth; 3 cups half-and-half; 12 ounces freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese (about 3-1/4 cups); Hearty buttered bread or bread bowls (optional)

Jump to Recipe

When chilly days call for something warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, nothing hits the spot quite like this Cheddar Broccoli Soup. It’s creamy, cheesy, and brimming with tender broccoli and just the right hint of spices that make every spoonful feel like a big, cozy hug. This soup manages to feel indulgent without being heavy, combining simple ingredients into a bowl full of joyful deliciousness that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step toward creating a truly satisfying Cheddar Broccoli Soup. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding depth, creaminess, or vibrant color that makes the soup as beautiful as it is tasty.

Unsalted butter: Used twice—once to soften the onions and again to make the roux for that silky base.
Olive oil: Helps beautifully sauté the onions without burning, contributing subtle richness.
Yellow onion: Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation when sautéed.
Garlic: Adds a punch of fragrant flavor—fresh is best here for maximum aroma.
Smoked paprika: Brings a smoky warmth that elevates the soup’s flavor depth.
Ground mustard: Enhances the sharpness of the cheese and balances richness.
Cayenne pepper: A little heat that wakes up the palate without overpowering.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
Flour: Key for making the roux, giving the soup its creamy texture.
Chicken broth (or vegetable broth): The flavorful liquid base that infuses the soup with body and depth.
Half-and-half: Adds luscious creaminess without being overly heavy like cream.
Bay leaf (optional): A subtle herbal note that gently infuses into the broth.
Broccoli: The star vegetable, chopped into bite-size pieces to cook tender but not mushy.
Carrots: Shredded for a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
Extra-sharp Cheddar cheese: The magic ingredient providing rich, tangy, velvety cheesiness.
Hearty buttered bread: Perfect for dipping and making the meal extra comforting.

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Step 1: Prepare Butter and Seasonings

Start by heating a tablespoon of butter with olive oil over medium heat. Toss in finely diced onions and let them cook until they turn a golden, fragrant shade. This slow cooking releases their sweetness, which forms the flavor foundation. Next, add garlic along with smoked paprika, ground mustard, cayenne, and freshly cracked pepper. Stir this aromatic mix for about a minute until your kitchen smells irresistible.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Add the remaining butter to the pot and let it melt completely. Whisk in the flour steadily, making sure to keep whisking for about two minutes. This step is essential to cook out the raw flour taste and build a thick, creamy base for the soup. You’ll notice it turning a lovely golden hue as it thickens — the perfect consistency to hold the soup together.

Step 3: Create the Soup Base

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, then slowly add half-and-half, still whisking to keep it smooth. Add a bay leaf if you like a subtle herbaceous note in the background. Bring the mixture down to a gentle simmer for around 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, as the broth thickens into a rich and velvety base.

Step 4: Prepare Broccoli and Add Vegetables

While the soup simmers, chop your broccoli into bite-sized pieces and shred the carrots finely. Add both to the pot and continue cooking on low heat for another 10 to 15 minutes, stirring every now and then. The vegetables soften just enough here, keeping some bite to contrast the creamy broth. Feel free to blend a portion if you prefer a smoother texture, but leaving it chunky really celebrates the fresh veggies.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Turn off the heat and gradually add the shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, stirring a handful at a time to melt it slowly and smoothly into the soup. Tasting along the way, adjust salt and pepper to your liking. The cheese not only enriches the soup but also adds that signature tangy punch that makes Cheddar Broccoli Soup so crave-worthy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your steaming bowl immediately, ideally with some thick, buttered bread or hollowed-out bread bowls for dipping. The comforting blend of creamy soup contrasted with crispy bread is a divine combo that will warm you from the inside out. This is cozy cooking at its very best.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of extra shredded Cheddar or a few crispy bacon bits on top to introduce texture and layered flavor. A small spoonful of sour cream or a swirl of fresh cream can also bring an elegant creaminess. Don’t underestimate the pop of fresh chopped chives or parsley to brighten the bowl visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with a crisp green salad to balance its richness, or a warm, crusty baguette for dipping. Roasted garlic bread or even a simple grilled cheese sandwich are fantastic companions that complement the flavors. For a heartier meal, a baked potato or light pasta salad also works beautifully alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

Take this classic soup up a notch by serving it in hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls, turning your meal into an edible, rustic masterpiece. Or create mini soup shooters topped with a tiny garnish as elegant starters at a dinner party. You can even layer the soup in mason jars for a grab-and-go lunch option that still feels special and homemade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your Cheddar Broccoli Soup to airtight containers and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for 3 to 4 days. Before reheating, give it a good stir to redistribute any settled ingredients and check the seasoning again if needed.

Freezing

Freezing is possible, but it’s best to omit cheese when freezing and add it fresh upon reheating to avoid grainy texture. Store the soup base in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge for smooth reheating the next day.

Reheating

Warm the soup gently over low heat on the stove, stirring often to keep the cheese from sticking or separating. If it seems too thick, loosen it with a splash of milk or broth. Re-add freshly shredded Cheddar as the last step for that perfect creamy finish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well and can save prep time. Just add it directly into the soup while simmering. Keep in mind it might break down a bit more, resulting in a softer texture.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly. The flavors remain just as rich and satisfying with this swap.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

For a dairy-free twist, substitute the half-and-half for coconut or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The texture and flavor will change slightly but can still be delicious and creamy.

Why does the soup sometimes become grainy?

Graininess often happens when the cheese is added to boiling soup or if the soup is overheated after adding cheese. Always add cheese off the heat and stir gently to melt it slowly for the best texture.

How thick should the soup be?

The soup should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still easily spoonable. If it becomes too thick after chilling, simply whisk in a little milk or broth to loosen it before serving.

Final Thoughts

Making this Cheddar Broccoli Soup at home is like giving yourself a delicious, warm hug when you need it most. It’s easy, rewarding, and endlessly comforting. Whether for a simple weeknight meal or an impressive dish to share, this soup checks all the boxes. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite go-to recipes for cozy eating.