Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

A few years ago, I was feeling nostalgic and craving that rich, creamy broccoli cheese soup from my favorite restaurant. But I didn’t want to go out to eat. I wanted to enjoy it from the comfort of my home. So, I decided to give it a try and make it myself. After a couple of attempts, I finally nailed it. Now, whenever the weather turns chilly or I just want something comforting, this soup is my go-to.

The beauty of this broccoli cheese soup is how simple it is to make. With just a few ingredients and about 30 minutes of cooking, you can have a pot of creamy, cheesy soup ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for a cozy meal with the family, and it pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread.

Servings	Total
6	40mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first learned about broccoli cheese soup from a restaurant I used to visit regularly. I loved their soup so much that I decided I wanted to try making it at home. After a few tries, I made my own version, tweaking the ingredients and process until I found a combination that worked for me. Now it’s a family favorite, and I often make it on weekends when I want something easy but comforting.

Why Broccoli Cheese Soup

Broccoli cheese soup is one of those meals that’s both filling and comforting. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with vegetables—perfect for when you want to eat something indulgent but also get a little nutrition in. What I love about it is that it’s quick to prepare and doesn’t require any complicated techniques. It’s a dish that can be made in under an hour, and it’s something the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re having it for lunch or dinner, it’s always a hit.

What is Broccoli Cheese Soup Made of?

Broccoli cheese soup is made with just a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen:

• Broccoli – The main ingredient, giving the soup its signature texture and flavor.
• Cheddar cheese – Adds creaminess and the cheesy flavor that makes this soup so comforting.
• Cream or milk – Makes the soup creamy and smooth.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps in creating the roux that thickens the soup.
• Onions – Add a savory depth to the flavor.
• Garlic – Brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Flour – Used to make a roux that thickens the soup.
• Vegetable or chicken broth – Adds a savory base to the soup.

What to Have with Broccoli Cheese Soup

This soup is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs well with:

• Crusty bread – A slice of toasted bread is perfect for dipping.
• Grilled cheese sandwich – You can never go wrong with this classic pairing.
• Side salad – A light salad with a tangy dressing balances the richness of the soup.
• Croutons – For a little extra crunch, top your soup with homemade croutons.

Is Broccoli Cheese Soup Healthy?

Broccoli cheese soup can be a healthy choice when made with the right ingredients. Broccoli is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to the soup. While cheese and cream make the soup rich and creamy, you can reduce the amount of cream or use lighter alternatives (like half-and-half) to make it healthier. To add even more nutrients, you could incorporate other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower into the soup. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake, as the cheese and cream can add up quickly.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the soup
• Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Ladle for serving

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups milk or cream (adjust for desired creaminess)
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make Broccoli Cheese Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes soft and translucent.

Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release its flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli and Simmer the Soup

Add the chopped broccoli florets and pour in the 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and easy to mash with a spoon.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Base

In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of flour and 1 1/2 cups of milk or cream until smooth.

Slowly pour this mixture into the soup, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken.

Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional)

For a smooth and creamy soup, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture directly in the pot. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can leave some broccoli pieces whole.

If using a regular blender, carefully transfer small batches of the soup, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the warm Broccoli Cheese Soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheese, croutons, or a sprinkle of black pepper.

Tips

• Make it lighter – For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
• Add extra veggies – Try adding cauliflower or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Freeze leftovers – This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove, adding more milk or broth if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this soup. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove and add a little extra milk or cream to adjust the consistency if needed.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Add the sautéed onion, garlic, and broth to the slow cooker along with the broccoli and cook on low for 4 hours. Stir in the milk, cream, and cheese towards the end of cooking.

Conclusion

This easy broccoli cheese soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutritious vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this soup will hit the spot. It’s easy to make, and you can customize it with extra veggies or a lighter version if you prefer. No matter how you make it, this broccoli cheese soup will become a regular in your recipe rotation! Enjoy!

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