Cheddar Broccoli Soup

This creamy Cheddar Broccoli Soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make—all in one pot! Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this soup will impress with its delightful blend of spices and fresh ingredients. The standout feature is its creamy texture combined with the vibrant taste of broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, making it a favorite among soup lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 55 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish. It pairs well with bread or salads.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The spices and fresh vegetables create a rich flavor profile that warms the soul.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings; it’s sure to please kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious Cheddar Broccoli Soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for making soups, allowing ample space for all ingredients to cook evenly.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing ingredients smoothly and avoiding lumps in your soup.

Ingredients

This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is easy, all in one pot! Bursting with flavor and made in no time, the secret to its deliciousness is all in the spices!

• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (1 onion)
• 1-1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3/4 teaspoon paprika (I like smoked)
• 3/4 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper
• 6 tablespoons flour
• 32 ounces reduced-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 3 cups half-and-half (see note 1)
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• 6 cups chopped broccoli (to bite-size pieces)
• 2 cups shredded carrots
• 12 ounces freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese (3-1/4 cups)
• Hearty buttered bread (optional, or serve in bread bowls)

How to Make Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat 1 tablespoon butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden (3–5 minutes). Add garlic, paprika, mustard, cayenne, and pepper to taste (I add 1/2 teaspoon). Cook for about 45 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Base

Add the remaining 6 tablespoons butter and melt. Whisk in flour and cook for about 2 minutes while whisking constantly until it thickens.

Step 3: Incorporate Liquids

Gradually whisk in chicken broth. Once combined, slowly add half-and-half while whisking continuously. Reduce heat to medium-low, add bay leaf if using, and let simmer for about 15 minutes until nicely thickened.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Carrots

While the soup simmers, chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces and shred cheese. Add chopped broccoli and shredded carrots to the soup mixture.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Let the soup cook on low for an additional 10–15 minutes or until the broccoli reaches your desired tenderness. Stir occasionally. You can blend some of the soup if you prefer a smoother texture or leave it chunky.

Step 6: Melt Cheese

Turn off the heat. Gradually stir in cheese—a handful at a time—until melted. Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt as needed (I usually add about up to a teaspoon).

Step 7: Serve

Enjoy immediately! Serve your Cheddar Broccoli Soup in hearty bread bowls or alongside buttered bread for dipping.

How to Serve Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Cheddar Broccoli Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it on its own or alongside other dishes, here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

In Bread Bowls

• These edible bowls are perfect for holding the creamy soup, adding a delightful crunch and flavor as you enjoy each spoonful.

With Hearty Buttered Bread

• Serve the soup with thick slices of buttered bread for dipping. The richness of the butter complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.

Topped with Croutons

• Adding crunchy croutons provides texture and extra flavor. Consider using garlic or cheese-flavored croutons for an added twist.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing the overall presentation of your soup.

With a Side Salad

• A light salad can balance the richness of Cheddar Broccoli Soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette.

As Part of a Comfort Food Feast

• Pair this soup with comfort food classics like grilled cheese sandwiches or chicken pot pie for a cozy meal that satisfies all cravings.

How to Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Making the perfect Cheddar Broccoli Soup requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to elevate your soup-making game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Control Texture: Blend some of the soup for creaminess or leave it chunky for added texture; both are delicious!
• Experiment with Cheese: While sharp cheddar is classic, mixing in other cheeses like Gruyère can add depth to flavor.
• Cool Before Storing: If you have leftovers, let the soup cool before placing it in the fridge to maintain its quality.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so on low heat and stir frequently to prevent separation of ingredients.

Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Broccoli Soup

Cheddar Broccoli Soup pairs well with various side dishes that complement its creamy texture. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing; choose your favorite bread and cheese combination for dipping.
2. Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and crunch from croutons contrast nicely with the rich soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat add nutrition and variety to your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provide a healthy side that enhances the meal’s vibrancy.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
6. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream or cheese make for a filling and satisfying side dish.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide an enjoyable crunch alongside the creamy soup.
8. Fried Zucchini Sticks: Lightly battered zucchini sticks add extra veggies while being fun to eat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheddar Broccoli Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Add it later in the cooking process for a perfect tender-crisp texture.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese can lead to a bland soup. Opt for freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar for intense flavor.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning adequately can result in a plain dish. Taste and adjust with salt and spices to elevate the flavors.
• Ignoring the Roux Technique: Failing to cook the flour properly can create a gritty texture. Ensure you whisk it with fat until golden before adding liquid.
• Not Blending for Creaminess: Leaving the soup too chunky might not suit everyone’s taste. Blend a portion of the soup if you prefer a creamier consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cheddar Broccoli Soup in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing Cheddar Broccoli Soup

• Freeze in airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It will maintain quality for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Cheddar Broccoli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot. Use a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely to prevent splatters.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly. Adjust thickness by adding broth as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my Cheddar Broccoli Soup thicker?

You can thicken your Cheddar Broccoli Soup by adding more flour to your roux or blending part of the soup for a creamy texture.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in your Cheddar Broccoli Soup. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking for best results.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to create a delicious vegetarian version of Cheddar Broccoli Soup.

Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! You can add other veggies like potatoes or cauliflower, or even mix in proteins like chicken or bacon for additional flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar Broccoli Soup is creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Don’t hesitate to try this comforting recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite!