✨ Introduction
There are soups you enjoy… and then there are soups you crave. Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup belongs firmly in the second category 🥦🧀. Velvety, rich, and deeply comforting, this classic soup brings together tender broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese in a smooth, luscious base that feels indulgent without being complicated.
If you’ve ever ordered broccoli cheddar soup at a café or bakery and wondered how to recreate that same cozy, restaurant-style experience at home, this recipe is for you. It captures everything people love about the dish—the creamy texture, the balance between vegetables and cheese, and the warm, nostalgic feeling that comes with every spoonful.
What makes this version special is its balance. The broccoli isn’t lost in the cheese, and the cheese doesn’t overpower the soup. Instead, they work together to create a comforting bowl that feels both satisfying and familiar. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish, yet simple enough to pair with sandwiches, salads, or crusty bread.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in, a family lunch, or a comforting meal on a chilly day, this creamy broccoli cheddar soup delivers every time.
💛 Why You’ll Love This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This soup is a favorite for good reason:
- 🥦 Tender broccoli in every bite
- 🧀 Rich, cheesy flavor without being overwhelming
- 🍲 Creamy, smooth texture that feels indulgent
- ⏱️ Straightforward and reliable, no complicated steps
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly comfort food
It’s the kind of recipe that feels special but approachable—perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs.
🕒 When to Make This Recipe
Creamy broccoli cheddar soup is ideal for:
- Cozy weeknight dinners
- Cold or rainy days
- Comfort lunches at home
- Meatless meal nights
- Pairing with sandwiches or salads
Because it reheats well and tastes even better the next day, it’s also a great option for meal prep.
🔗 Explore More Comforting & Easy Meals (Internal Links)
If you love cozy soups like this one, explore our Quick & Easy Meals for stress-free dinners, browse our Healthy Recipes for lighter comfort foods, or check out our High Protein Meals if you’re looking to pair this soup with a satisfying main dish.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together into something rich and comforting.
Vegetables
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Onion
- Garlic
Base & dairy
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Milk or half-and-half
- Vegetable or chicken broth
Cheese
- Sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
Seasonings
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika or mustard powder (optional)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This is the reader-friendly walkthrough. Exact quantities and formatting live in the Tasty Recipes card.
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, then stir in garlic until fragrant.
Step 2: Make the roux
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir until it forms a paste. Cook briefly to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 3: Build the soup base
Slowly whisk in broth and milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add broccoli
Add broccoli florets and simmer until tender.
Step 5: Add cheese
Lower the heat and stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season to taste.
Print
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Creamy broccoli cheddar soup made with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich, smooth base. A comforting classic perfect for any day.
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups broth
- 1½ cups milk or half-and-half
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté onion and garlic in butter.
- Stir in flour to form a roux.
- Whisk in broth and milk.
- Add broccoli and simmer until tender.
- Stir in cheese until smooth.
Notes
Add cheese over low heat for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmered
💡 Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Grate your own cheese for smoother melting
- Keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent graininess
- Cut broccoli evenly for consistent texture
- Blend part of the soup if you prefer it extra creamy
💡 Did you know?
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent soups from becoming perfectly smooth.
🔄 Variations & Substitutions
- 🌱 Vegetarian: use vegetable broth
- 🥛 Lighter version: use milk instead of cream
- 🥔 Add potatoes for extra thickness
- 🌶️ Add a pinch of cayenne for heat
- 🧀 Mix cheeses like cheddar and Gruyère
🍽️ How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serve hot with:
- Crusty bread or bread bowls
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- Simple green salads
This soup works beautifully as a starter or a satisfying main dish.
🧊 How to Store & Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling to maintain a smooth texture.
📣 Final Thoughts & Call to Action
This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is everything comfort food should be: warm, rich, and deeply satisfying. It’s a timeless recipe that brings people back to the table again and again.
💬 Do you prefer your broccoli cheddar soup chunky or extra smooth?
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📷 Tag #YankeeYums — I’d love to see your bowl!