The Bestbroccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is comfort in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights or when you need a quick, satisfying meal. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with simple ingredients that pack big flavor.
- Rich and creamy without being heavy, thanks to a smooth blend of cheese and tender broccoli.
- Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
- Kid-friendly and customizable, so you can tweak it to suit picky eaters or spice lovers.
Recipe
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a creamy and cheesy delight that’s perfect for chilly days. This recipe combines tender broccoli, rich cheddar cheese, and a velvety broth for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the broth, milk, and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the soup is smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Serve hot.
Notes:
- For a smoother texture, blend half of the soup using an immersion blender before adding the cheese.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more broth or milk if desired.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Immersion blender (optional)
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
This broccoli cheddar soup recipe provides a balance of nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Sodium | 680mg |
What To Serve With It
I’m always looking for the perfect pairings to make my broccoli cheddar soup feel like a full meal, and I’ve found that crusty bread, like a baguette or sourdough, adds a satisfying crunch. Sometimes, I’ll balance the richness with a fresh salad, maybe something light with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette. Combining these sides turns a cozy soup into a well-rounded, delicious dinner.
Crusty Bread Pairings
When I’m craving something hearty to dip into my broccoli cheddar soup, crusty bread is my go-to choice. The bread texture is key—it’s got to be crisp on the outside, soft and chewy inside, perfect for soaking up that creamy soup. I love a sourdough or baguette because they add a nice tanginess that complements the richness of the cheddar. Cheese pairings also matter; sometimes I’ll top the bread with a slice of sharp cheddar or Gruyère, then toast it until it’s melty. It’s like a mini grilled cheese that takes the whole experience to the next level.
Fresh Salad Options
If you’re like me and enjoy balancing a rich bowl of broccoli cheddar soup with something lighter, a fresh salad is the way to go. I love starting with kale salads—they’re hearty enough to stand up to the creamy soup but still light and invigorating. My go-to mix includes massaged kale, dried cranberries, and a tangy vinaigrette. For a sweeter twist, I’ll make fruit salads with apples, grapes, and a hint of mint. They’re quick, colorful, and add a nice contrast to the savory soup. Either way, a salad keeps the meal feeling fresh and satisfying without being too heavy.
