If you have a soft spot for comfort food that feels like a warm hug, then this Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Imagine a rich, velvety broth swirling with bright green broccoli, sweet carrots, and two kinds of melty cheese, all brought together in a luscious creamy base that makes spoonfuls disappear faster than you can say “yum.” It’s perfect for chilly evenings, a cozy lunch, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something both satisfying and wholesome. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this classic stays a top favorite in so many kitchens.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe couldn’t be easier, and each one plays a vital role. From the butter that forms the flavor base to the sharp cheddar that provides that signature cheesy punch, these components come together to create harmony in every bite.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Essential for sautéeing the aromatics and creating a silky roux to thicken the soup.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a gentle savory kick that lifts the overall taste.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create a smooth, creamy texture by thickening the soup.
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Adds savory richness and balanced seasoning.
- 2 cups whole milk: Contributes creaminess and body to the soup.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Increases richness and delivers that luxuriously smooth mouthfeel.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped: The star vegetable providing freshness and vibrant green color.
- 1 large carrot, shredded or finely chopped: Offers subtle sweetness and a splash of color contrast.
- 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Gives that unmistakable bold, cheesy flavor throughout.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty complexity that rounds out the cheese blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of warm spice mild enough to complement rather than overpower.
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional): Brings an elegant subtle warmth that deepens the creamy broth.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook it gently for 4 to 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This slow cooking brings out the natural sweetness of the onion. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned; this step builds a flavorful base for the soup.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the butter, onion, and garlic mixture, whisking constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. This crucial step cooks off the raw flour taste and thickens the soup later. Keep your whisk moving so the roux stays smooth and golden, never allowing it to burn or clump.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Vegetables
Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking continually to avoid any lumps. Follow with the whole milk and heavy cream, keeping the mixture smooth and silky. Next, stir in the chopped broccoli florets and shredded carrot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the vegetables to soften and release their flavors, making the soup wonderfully hearty.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Season
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Begin adding the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses a handful at a time, stirring well after each addition so the cheese melts fully before adding more. Finish by seasoning with salt, black pepper, and, if you like, a small pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth and depth. This step is where the soup truly becomes indulgent and creamy.
Step 5: Blend to Your Preferred Texture
If you love your Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe with a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to partially purée the soup right in the pot. You can leave some chunks of broccoli and carrot for texture or blend it completely silky smooth depending on your mood. No matter how you choose, it will taste amazing!
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes turns your soup from simple to spectacular. Try sprinkling extra shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top, a drizzle of cream, or even some crispy bacon bits if you’re feeling indulgent. Freshly chopped chives or parsley provide a vibrant pop of color and freshness that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, perfect for dunking and soaking up every creamy drop. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or buttery garlic toast. If you’re serving it for lunch, a warm bread bowl elevates the experience and keeps your soup hot while making it fun to eat.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your dinner guests? Ladle the soup into hollowed-out bread bowls or colorful mugs for a cozy presentation. You can also swirl in a bit of pesto or hot sauce for added flavor contrast. For a party, serve shooter-sized portions topped with miniature grilled cheese croutons for a playful appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your soup to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making it taste even better on the next day. Just keep in mind it will thicken, so be ready to loosen it up when reheating.
Freezing
This Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe freezes well if you want to save some for a rainy day. Use freezer-safe containers and leave some headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your soup slowly over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or curdling. If the soup has thickened too much, stir in a little extra broth or milk to bring back that perfect creamy consistency. It always tastes amazing warmed up like this.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well and can be a convenient option. Just add it directly during the cooking step, and cook a bit longer if needed to ensure it gets tender.
What can I substitute for the heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can use all milk or a mixture of milk and half-and-half instead. The soup will still be creamy but a bit less rich.
Is this soup vegetarian?
Yes, when made with vegetable broth it is suitable for vegetarians. Just be sure the broth you use contains no animal products.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
This recipe relies on cheeses and cream for its signature flavor and texture, so dairy substitutes would change it significantly. However, using plant-based milks and vegan cheeses might work if you’re open to experimenting.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should be comfortably thick but still spoonable and smooth. It will thicken as it cools, so expect a slightly looser consistency fresh off the stove.
Final Thoughts
There is truly nothing like a bowl of this Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe to brighten a chilly day or satisfy a craving for comforting, cheesy goodness. It’s simple to make but impressively delicious, and it always brings people together around the table. So don’t wait—gather your ingredients and give this recipe a whirl. Your taste buds will thank you, and you just might have a new favorite soup to turn to again and again.
Print
Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy broccoli cheese soup combines tender broccoli florets and shredded carrots in a rich, cheesy broth made with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting meal, this American classic is easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be served chunky or smoothly blended to your preference.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 large carrot, shredded or finely chopped
Cheese & Seasonings
- 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Create roux: Sprinkle the flour over the butter and onions, whisking constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux that will thicken the soup.
- Add liquids: Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the milk and heavy cream, whisking to smooth out any lumps in the mixture.
- Cook vegetables: Add the chopped broccoli and shredded carrot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses a handful at a time, allowing each addition to fully melt before adding more.
- Season and blend: Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially purée the soup, or leave it chunky if preferred.
- Serve: Serve the soup hot, optionally with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for a comforting experience.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of half-and-half just before serving.
- Frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh if needed.
- This soup thickens as it cools—add a bit more broth or milk when reheating to adjust consistency.
