Name: Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small; 1 carrot, shredded; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Salt & pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you are craving a cozy, cheesy treat that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor, this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a rich, creamy soup loaded with tender broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese, all simmered to perfection in one pot. It is the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply want a comforting meal without the fuss. With minimal ingredients and under 30 minutes to make, this soup is a total game-changer for anyone who loves wholesome, delicious food that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of several clear glass bowls and measuring cups with cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. From top left, a large bowl filled with bright green broccoli florets, next to it on the right is a medium bowl of bright orange shredded cheese. Below the broccoli is a small bowl with white chopped onions, and next to the cheese is a bowl with thin orange carrot sticks. To the right of the carrots is a tiny bowl holding a single brown bay leaf. Going down, a large clear measuring cup with light yellow broth sits next to another large measuring cup filled with white milk. Near the bottom center, a small bowl holds several cubes of pale yellow butter. To the left are a small bowl of minced garlic, a half-cup measuring cup of white flour, a teaspoon with brown spice, and a tiny bowl with black pepper and white salt. Everything is placed on a clean, white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays an important role. From the sweet sautéed onion to the sharp cheddar that delivers a cheesy punch, every element combines to create the perfect balance of taste, texture, and vibrant color.

2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps soften the onion perfectly.
1 small onion, diced: Provides a mild sweetness and base flavor for the soup.
2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small: The star vegetable bringing fresh, green goodness and a slight crunch.
1 carrot, shredded: Offers natural sweetness and a pop of color.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent to give the soup its creamy texture.
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Creates the flavorful, savory liquid base.
1 cup milk: Adds creaminess without heaviness, keeping the soup smooth.
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Delivers the bold cheesy flavor that makes this soup irresistible.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.

How to Make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting the butter in a pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent. This step releases the onion’s natural sweetness, laying a flavorful foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Next, stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about one minute. This will eliminate the raw flour taste and start building the creamy base that will thicken the soup beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Liquids

Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and milk. Stir continuously until everything is well combined. Let this mixture simmer gently for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to start thickening.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Add the chopped broccoli florets and shredded carrot to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, which usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes. This ensures the broccoli stays vibrant with just the right amount of bite.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Turn the heat to low, then stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely and the soup becomes luxuriously creamy and smooth. Be sure to keep the heat gentle to avoid the cheese from clumping.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give the soup one last stir, then ladle it into bowls and enjoy the warmth of this classic favorite made effortlessly at home.

How to Serve Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with creamy broccoli cheddar soup. The soup has a thick texture with light orange color and green broccoli pieces visible throughout. On top, there is a layer of shredded bright orange cheddar cheese sprinkled evenly, along with small green herb bits scattered over the cheese. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with a spoon and some cashews next to it. A slice of bread is partially visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your soup, sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar on top or add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. A few crispy croutons or freshly chopped chives can add delightful texture and color, making the presentation even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also cuts through the richness, balancing out your meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe in hollowed-out mini bread bowls for a charming, rustic feel. Alternatively, offer it as a starter in small cups at a party for a sip-worthy appetizer that will impress friends and family alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good), store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it an easy lunch option or a comforting dinner waiting for you after a busy day.

Freezing

This soup freezes very well, making it great for batch cooking. Cool it completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the texture might thicken a bit once thawed, but a quick stir or addition of a splash of milk revives it beautifully.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling as this can cause the cheese to separate. You can restore creaminess by stirring in a little milk if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the soup vegetarian-friendly without compromising on flavor.

What can I add to make the soup spicier?

For a little kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce when seasoning the soup. It pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese and broccoli.

Is it possible to make the soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free cheddar-style cheese. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious and comforting.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Definitely! Frozen broccoli works well and can actually save prep time. Just add it straight to the simmering soup and cook until tender.

How can I make the soup smoother?

Using an immersion blender after cooking will give you a velvety smooth texture. Blend partially or completely, depending on your preference.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe a try because it has a way of making busy days feel cozy and special. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious homemade soup that feels like a warm embrace. Once you taste that creamy, cheesy goodness with fresh broccoli, I’m confident it will become a fast favorite in your kitchen too!