Name: Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups broccoli florets; 3 tbsp butter; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp paprika or nutmeg (optional)

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I love broccoli cheddar soup because it’s rich, creamy, and deeply comforting. I enjoy how the sharpness of the cheddar balances the mild broccoli, creating a cozy soup that feels filling and satisfying without being complicated to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s simple, classic, and always reliable. I enjoy how it comes together with everyday ingredients and turns them into something warm and indulgent. I also appreciate that it works well for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for busy days. Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

broccoli florets
butter
onion
garlic
all-purpose flour
milk
vegetable or chicken broth
sharp cheddar cheese
salt
black pepper
optional paprika or nutmeg

Directions

I start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. I add chopped onion and cook it until soft, then stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. I sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly to form a smooth roux.

I slowly pour in the milk and broth, stirring as I go to avoid lumps. I bring the mixture to a gentle simmer until it thickens slightly. I add the broccoli florets and cook until they’re tender.

I reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time until fully melted and smooth. I season the soup with salt, black pepper, and optional spices. For a smoother texture, I partially blend the soup, leaving some broccoli pieces intact.

Servings and Timing

I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time takes around 10 minutes, cooking time is about 30 minutes, and the total time comes to roughly 40 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add carrots or cauliflower for extra vegetables. I like using smoked cheddar for a deeper flavor, or mixing in a bit of Parmesan. When I want a lighter version, I replace part of the milk with extra broth.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm it gently over low heat, stirring often so the cheese stays smooth. I add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much. Broccoli Cheddar Soup

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

I can use frozen broccoli, but I add it directly to the soup without thawing and expect a slightly softer texture.

Why did my cheese turn grainy?

I make sure to lower the heat before adding cheese, since high heat can cause it to separate.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

I replace the flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or gluten-free flour.

Can I blend the soup completely?

I can blend it fully if I want a smooth soup, but I like leaving some texture for contrast.

Is broccoli cheddar soup good for meal prep?

I think it’s great for meal prep as long as I reheat it gently to keep it creamy.

Conclusion

I enjoy broccoli cheddar soup because it’s a timeless comfort food that never goes out of style. I like how creamy, warm, and satisfying it is, making it a recipe I always come back to when I want something cozy and homemade.