Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup stands out as a comforting yet nutritious dish that perfectly balances indulgence with wholesome ingredients.

Broccoli, rich in fiber and vitamins C and K, forms the nutrient-packed base, offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Kathleen R. Coffey
A creamy, comforting soup featuring fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for quick lunches or cozy dinners.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6

Equipment

  • 1 Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring Cups (various sizes)
  • 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife

Ingredients
  

  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 celery stalk finely diced
  • cups broccoli florets cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Additional shredded cheddar cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter until foaming. Add the chopped onion and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This process draws out the natural sweetness of the onions, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
  • Create Roux: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the softened onions. Whisk continuously for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a smooth, golden roux. This step will thicken the soup later while ensuring a creamy texture.
  • Add Broth and Season: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Season the mixture generously with salt and black pepper. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil to activate the thickening properties of the roux.
  • Cook Vegetables: Stir in the diced celery and broccoli florets. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer the soup, uncovered, until the vegetables are tender and cooked through—approximately 15 minutes. This slow simmer helps develop depth of flavor and softens the broccoli perfectly.
  • Incorporate Milk and Adjust Thickness: Pour in the whole milk and continue to simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. The soup should thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon while maintaining a smooth, pourable consistency.
  • Melt Cheese: Remove the pot from heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese in small handfuls, stirring continuously until fully melted before adding more. This gradual process ensures a creamy, lump-free soup.
  • Final Seasoning and Serving: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with extra cheddar cheese if desired. Serve warm, optionally in a sourdough bread bowl or alongside crusty bread.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth without compromising flavor.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender after the vegetables are cooked to partially puree the soup before adding milk and cheese.
  • Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor impact; mild cheddar will produce a less pronounced cheese taste.
  • The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to prevent curdling.
  • To make the soup gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry for thickening.

The addition of cheddar cheese provides a satisfying source of protein and calcium, making the soup hearty enough to serve as a light meal.

With the use of whole milk and unsalted butter, it contains good fats that contribute to creaminess without overwhelming saturated fat content.

This recipe is quick and straightforward, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

The inclusion of celery adds subtle flavor and more fiber, enhancing digestive health.

Its versatile, cozy nature paired with the ability to serve in bread bowls or with crusty sides makes it a crowd-pleaser that fits easily into everyday cooking routines.

Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results

Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot

Essential for even heat distribution, this pot allows you to sauté vegetables and simmer the soup without burning, ensuring smooth texture and consistent cooking every time.

Whisk

Perfect for incorporating flour into the melted butter, the whisk prevents lumps and creates a silky roux, foundational for the soup’s creamy consistency.

Wooden Spoon

Ideal for stirring during simmering and testing the soup’s thickness; gentle on cookware surfaces and provides excellent control.

Measuring Cups

Accurate measuring of liquids and solids ensures balanced flavors and textures, which is key for consistent soup outcomes.

Sharp Chef’s Knife

Necessary for chopping onions, celery, and broccoli efficiently and safely, making prep quick and precise.

Chef’s Secrets for Creamy Soup Perfection

Achieving the ideal creamy texture in broccoli cheddar soup starts with building a proper roux by cooking the flour in butter until it’s golden and fragrant.

This step is crucial to avoid a raw flour taste and to create a smooth base. Use fresh, sharp cheddar cheese and add it off the heat to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy or separating.

For a richer flavor, consider lightly roasting the broccoli before adding it to the soup, which adds a subtle depth.

Don’t rush the simmering stage — letting the vegetables cook gently helps develop their natural sweetness and makes the soup more flavorful.

Finally, season gradually and taste as you go; cheddar adds saltiness, so it’s better to start light and adjust at the end.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal

This soup shines best when paired with warm, crusty bread — a classic sourdough bread bowl makes for a fun and satisfying presentation.

For a lighter meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts or crispy bacon bits on top can add texture and extra flavor layers.

For a vegetarian twist, pair with garlic roasted potatoes or a side of steamed green beans.

Don’t forget a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon to cleanse the palate between creamy spoonfuls.

Storage Tips for Freshness and Flavor

Store leftover broccoli cheddar soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

To maintain its creamy consistency, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, rather than using a microwave.

If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration, add a splash of milk or broth during reheating to bring it back to the perfect texture.

For longer storage, this soup freezes well — just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Avoid freezing with the garnish cheese; instead, add fresh shredded cheddar after reheating for the best taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Soup

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken broth with a flavorful vegetable broth. This keeps the soup rich while making it suitable for vegetarians.

Is it possible to make the soup dairy-free?

You can replace the milk with unsweetened plant-based milk like oat or almond milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Always add shredded cheese off the heat and stir gently until melted. Avoid boiling the soup after adding cheese to prevent separation.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the soup a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just reheat gently and add the cheese fresh before serving.

What’s the best way to chop broccoli for soup?

Cut broccoli into small, uniform florets so they cook evenly. Removing the tough stalks or slicing them thinly ensures a tender bite throughout the soup.