Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe – Creamy, Easy, and Family-Friendly

I still remember the first time I whipped up a creamy broccoli cheddar soup in my tiny apartment kitchen—it filled the whole place with the comforting aroma of melted cheddar and tender broccoli. As someone who loves creating simple, family-friendly meals, I knew this recipe would become a weeknight favorite. Quick, customizable, and perfect for busy schedules, this broccoli cheddar soup brings comfort and balance in one hearty, cheesy bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli cheddar soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s as delicious as it is versatile. This broccoli cheddar soup recipe is quick to make, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need a warm, satisfying meal. The creamy cheddar cheese blends perfectly with tender broccoli, creating a rich, flavorful soup that everyone will love. You can easily customize this broccoli cheddar soup with extra vegetables, spices, or a splash of cream for indulgence. It’s also ideal for serving in bread bowls or pairing with crusty bread. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a cozy dish for special occasions, this broccoli cheddar soup hits all the marks. With its balanced, one-pot preparation, it’s a fuss-free way to enjoy comfort food without sacrificing flavor. This recipe proves that homemade broccoli cheddar soup can be both nutritious and decadent, making it a must-try for cheese lovers and broccoli fans alike.

Ingredients for This Recipe

This broccoli cheddar soup recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients to create a rich, creamy, and comforting meal. Fresh broccoli provides a tender, slightly sweet base, while sharp cheddar cheese delivers the signature cheesy flavor that makes this soup irresistible. Onions and garlic add depth and aroma, and a roux of butter and flour thickens the soup perfectly. Chicken or vegetable broth, along with milk and cream, creates a velvety texture that balances the flavors. Seasonings like salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg enhance the taste, while optional add-ons like crusty bread or extra cheese make serving even more indulgent. Every ingredient in this broccoli cheddar soup recipe is designed for maximum flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility—perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or cozy gatherings.

🛒 Ingredients (for 4–6 servings):

For the Soup:
4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For Serving / Optional Add-Ons:
Crusty bread, baguette, or bread bowls
Extra shredded cheddar
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make This Recipe

Making this broccoli cheddar soup recipe is easier than it looks, and it delivers rich, creamy flavor in every spoonful. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter, which creates a flavorful base for the soup. Adding flour forms a roux that thickens the broth, while chicken or vegetable broth combined with milk and cream ensures a smooth, velvety texture. Fresh broccoli cooks until tender, and sharp cheddar cheese is folded in last to give this broccoli cheddar soup its signature cheesy richness. This easy broccoli cheddar soup can be customized with extra vegetables, spices, or cream for indulgence, making it a perfect family-friendly dinner or cozy meal. Serve with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for the ultimate comfort food experience. Every step of this broccoli cheddar soup recipe emphasizes simplicity, flavor, and versatility, creating a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare.

🛒 Steps:

Step 1: Sauté onion and garlic in butter over medium heat until fragrant and soft.

Step 2: Sprinkle in flour to form a roux, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes.

Step 3: Gradually add chicken or vegetable broth, milk, and cream, whisking to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Add broccoli florets and simmer until tender, about 8–10 minutes.

Step 5: Partially blend the soup if desired for a creamy but chunky texture.

Step 6: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 7: Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Step 8: Serve hot with crusty bread, bread bowls, or extra cheese for garnish.

Expert Cooking Tips

Mastering this broccoli cheddar soup recipe is all about understanding how each ingredient works to create the perfect creamy, cheesy soup. Fresh broccoli ensures tender bites, while sharp cheddar provides the rich, signature flavor. Using a roux of butter and flour guarantees a smooth, thickened texture, and the combination of milk, cream, and broth balances the richness. Garlic and onions add depth, and seasonings like nutmeg, salt, and pepper enhance the overall flavor. Following these expert tips will help you make the best broccoli cheddar soup every time, whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting, family-friendly meal. Customizing this easy broccoli cheddar soup with extra vegetables, spices, or bread bowls takes it from simple to indulgent without adding complexity, ensuring a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying experience for everyone.

💡 Expert Tips:

Use fresh broccoli florets for tender, flavorful bites.

Grate your own sharp cheddar for a richer, meltier broccoli cheddar soup.

Cook onions and garlic slowly in butter to build a deep flavor base.

Gradually whisk in broth, milk, and cream to prevent lumps.

Partially blend the soup for a creamy yet chunky texture.

Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for balanced flavor.

Serve in bread bowls or with crusty bread for a cozy, family-friendly presentation.

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This broccoli cheddar soup recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Quick to make and easy to customize, it’s a family-friendly dish that works for busy weeknights, cozy lunches, or special gatherings. Using fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a simple blend of milk, cream, and broth, this easy broccoli cheddar soup delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture in every bowl. Serve it with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for the ultimate indulgence.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this broccoli cheddar soup is versatile, delicious, and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. With its balance of comfort, flavor, and convenience, this creamy broccoli cheddar soup proves that homemade soups can be both indulgent and wholesome. Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, cheesy, and flavorful meal that the whole family will love.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Savannah
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

A creamy, cheesy soup loaded with tender broccoli florets and rich cheddar cheese. Perfect as a comforting lunch or dinner, it’s delicious served with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for extra indulgence.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

🛒 Ingredients (for 4–6 servings):

For the Soup:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For Serving / Optional Add-Ons:

• Crusty bread, baguette, or bread bowls

• Extra shredded cheddar

• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Cook Vegetables
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant (3–4 minutes).

Step 2: Make Roux
Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add Liquids
Gradually whisk in the broth, then the milk and cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook Broccoli
Add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 8–10 minutes.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)
For a smoother texture, partially blend the soup using an immersion blender, leaving some broccoli chunks for texture.

Step 6: Add Cheese
Remove the pot from heat and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Step 7: Serve
Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and serve with crusty bread or in a bread bowl.

Notes

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Extra Creamy: Substitute half the milk with more heavy cream.
• Make Ahead: Soup can be prepared a day in advance and reheated gently, adding extra milk if needed to loosen.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Soup / Comfort Food
• Method: Stove-top / Simmer
• Cuisine: American