What ingredients are in broccoli cheddar soup?

This broccoli cheddar soup recipe combines fresh broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, milk, cream, onions, garlic, butter, flour, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Chicken or vegetable broth creates a smooth, flavorful base, making this easy broccoli cheddar soup both creamy and comforting.

Is broccoli cheddar soup vegetarian?

Yes, this easy broccoli cheddar soup can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The creamy cheddar and fresh vegetables make it a satisfying family-friendly meal.

How many calories are in broccoli cheddar soup?

Calories vary depending on ingredients, but a cup of homemade broccoli cheddar soup usually contains around 200–300 calories. Using lighter milk or less cream can reduce calories without sacrificing the creamy, cheesy flavor.

What is the best bread to serve with broccoli cheddar soup?

Crusty bread, sourdough, or bread bowls pair perfectly with this creamy broccoli cheddar soup. Serving the soup with bread adds texture, makes it more filling, and enhances the cheesy, comforting experience.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe – Creamy, Quick & Easy 2026

Name: Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 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); Crusty bread, baguette, or bread bowls (optional); Extra shredded cheddar (optional); Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 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

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