This Broccoli Cheese Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of tender broccoli bits that make it both tasty and comforting.
I love how easy this soup is to make. Just simmer, blend, and stir in the cheese—perfect for a cozy night in or when I’m feeling a bit under the weather!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets give a vibrant flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli is a perfect substitute. Just give it a little extra cooking time in the soup.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, mild cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack can work well. For a twist, try pepper jack for some extra heat.
Milk or Half-and-Half: Whole milk makes it rich, but if you’re watching calories, use 2% milk or a plant-based milk like almond or oat. Just be aware that the flavor may change a bit.
Nutmeg: Adding nutmeg is optional but it brings warmth to the soup. If you don’t have any, a pinch of cayenne pepper can also add a nice kick!
How Do I Make My Soup Creamy Without Over-Blending?
If you’re aiming for a creamy texture but still want some chunks of broccoli, here’s how to do it right:
- After cooking the broccoli until tender, use an immersion blender to blend only half of the soup for about 15-20 seconds. This keeps some pieces intact.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half of the soup to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
- Stir in the cheese gradually while the soup is still hot. This ensures it melts smoothly without clumping.
By following these tips, you’ll have the perfect balance of creamy and chunky textures in your broccoli cheese soup!
Delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 cup grated carrot (optional, for garnish or added sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This broccoli cheese soup will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking it. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This will build a flavorful base for your soup.
2. Create the Roux:
Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes. This will cook the flour slightly and help thicken your soup later on, but we want to make sure it doesn’t taste raw.
3. Add Liquid Ingredients:
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the whole milk (or half-and-half). Keep whisking to ensure there are no lumps; this will help create a smooth texture for your soup.
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets to the pot and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green. The aroma will be delightful!
5. Blend to Desired Consistency:
Now it’s time to blend! Using an immersion blender, blend the soup partially—this will create a mix of creamy and chunky textures. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer half the soup to a blender, blend it smooth, and then return it to the pot.
6. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese in small batches. Make sure each batch melts fully before adding more. This will make your soup creamy and cheesy—just how we like it!
7. Season the Soup:
Now it’s time to season! Add salt and black pepper to taste. If you’re using nutmeg, sprinkle it in now. Stir everything well, and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If desired, top the soup with grated carrot for a splash of color and a hint of sweetness. Serve your delicious broccoli cheese soup hot with crusty bread or crackers for a cozy meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great time-saver and will work just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to give it a few extra minutes to cook to ensure it’s tender.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make a dairy-free version, use cashew or almond milk instead of whole milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Freeze Broccoli Cheese Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
