Soup Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup, Creamy Comfort in a Bowl

When the skies are gray and you're craving something that wraps you in warmth, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the answer.

It’s creamy, cheesy, and indulgent, yet packed with tender bites of vibrant broccoli.

This soup is proof that comfort food and decadence can coexist beautifully.

Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread or enjoying it on its own, every spoonful delivers a rich, savory flavor that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, velvety soup featuring tender broccoli florets in a rich cheddar cheese base.

It's easy to make in under an hour, perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy lunch.

Ingredients

(Serves 4–6)

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 500 ml vegetable or chicken stock
• 500 ml whole milk
• 200 ml heavy cream
• 400 g broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 200 g sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Crusty bread or croutons, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics
   In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Make the Roux
   Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is golden and slightly nutty.
3. Add the Liquids
   Gradually whisk in the stock, ensuring no lumps form. Then slowly stir in the milk and cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Broccoli
   Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still vibrant green.
5. Incorporate the Cheese
   Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, one handful at a time, until melted and smooth. Add the Dijon mustard and smoked paprika for extra flavor. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Adjust the Consistency
   If the soup is too thick, add a bit more stock or milk to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve
   Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra grated cheddar or croutons. Serve immediately with crusty bread.

PRO TIP:

For an ultra-smooth soup, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup before adding the cheese. This adds a creamy texture while leaving some broccoli chunks intact for variety.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is everything you need on a cold, dreary day. It’s rich, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, with the perfect balance of creaminess and broccoli goodness. Pair it with fresh bread, and you've got yourself a cozy meal that's bound to become a household favorite. Comfort food has never tasted this good!