Imagine a blustery evening, the kind of night that calls for something warm, comforting, and utterly soul-soothing. That’s when a steaming bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup becomes more than just food—it’s a cozy embrace, a nostalgic reminder of home, and an invitation to slow down and savor each spoonful. This Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is more than your average bowl; it’s a luxurious, creamy delight that balances the freshness of broccoli with the rich, melty goodness of sharp cheddar cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe: This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is designed for real life—simple enough for a busy weeknight and impressive enough for company. The harmonious blend of fresh broccoli, sweet sautéed onions, and earthy carrots delivers a depth of flavor that’s both wholesome and indulgent. Finished with a generous handful of sharp cheddar cheese, every bite is a velvety symphony of creamy, cheesy perfection.
Ingredients That Shine – the beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient comes together:
- Broccoli: The star of the show. Fresh florets lend vibrant color and a satisfying bite.
- Cheddar Cheese: Choose a sharp, aged cheddar for the most pronounced flavor and perfect melt.
- Carrots & Onion: These add subtle sweetness, balancing the richness of the cheese.
- Garlic & Spices: Just enough to enhance, never overpower.
- Cream & Broth: The creamy base melds everything together, making each spoonful silky smooth.
As the soup simmers, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma—notes of sharp cheese mingling with the earthy scent of broccoli and sweet onions. The first spoonful delivers a delightful contrast: tender broccoli meets silky, cheesy broth, punctuated by tiny flecks of carrot and the gentle heat of black pepper. Each bite is rich, comforting, and leaves you craving more.
Unlike many copycat versions, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup uses straightforward ingredients and comes together in just about 30 minutes. It’s a one-pot wonder that delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss or expense. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or seeking a last-minute cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
- 1/2 stick Butter
- 1/2 Yellow onion (medium) cut cubed
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 cups Half and Half or 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream
- 3 cups Vegetable stock – low sodium
- 4 tbsp Corn starch
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg
- 2 Bay leaves
- 1 Carrot large, peeled and chopped small
- 4 cups broccoli florets about 1 head
- 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese (grated) about 8 ounces
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Now add onion and garlic and sauté on medium heat until tender and fragrant.
- Slowly add the vegetable stock. Mix well. Now add the half and half while continuously stirring.
- Mix the corn starch with about 1/4 cup of cold water until there are no clumps. Add about tablespoons of corn starch mixture to the pot at a time, stirring continuously to make sure there are no lumps.
- Add the nutmeg and bay leaves and cook on medium-low until thickened.
- Add the carrot and broccoli and simmer until tender, for about 3-5 minutes.
- Discard the bay leaves. Add the grated sharp cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: Keep it vibrant and slightly crisp for the best texture and color.
- Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can be coated in anti-caking agents, which may prevent smooth melting.
- Blend to your liking: For a rustic feel, leave some broccoli florets whole. For ultimate creaminess, blend until silky smooth.