If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of pure happiness, this Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s that perfect mix of tender broccoli, sharp cheddar, and velvety creaminess that hugs you from the inside out. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or just craving a cozy meal, this soup delivers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that feels like a warm embrace in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this soup comes from simple, wholesome ingredients that work harmoniously to create deep layers of flavor. Each one plays a unique role, from building the soup’s creamy base to adding freshness and that irresistible cheesy bite.
- 6 Tbsp butter: Provides a rich, silky start as the base for sautéing onions and garlic.
- 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth once softened.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Brings a subtle, savory warmth that elevates the whole soup.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the soup and gives it a lovely velvety texture.
- 3 1/4 cups low-fat milk: Keeps the soup creamy without feeling heavy.
- 14.5 oz low-sodium chicken broth: Infuses the soup with savory, gentle undertones that complement the broccoli perfectly.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and smoothness for that luxurious mouthfeel.
- 3 cups finely chopped fresh broccoli florets: The star ingredient lends freshness, color, and just the right bite.
- 10 oz sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into a bold, cheesy flavor that is simply irresistible.
- 1 oz finely shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds a subtle nuttiness and umami kick to balance the cheddar.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for blooming all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once melted, toss in your finely chopped onions and cook them until they’re soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor, coaxing out the natural sweetness of the onions. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute to release its fragrant aroma without burning it.
Step 2: Create the Soup Base
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a gentle roux. Cooking the flour briefly helps remove the raw taste and prepares it to thicken the soup. Slowly whisk in the milk and low-sodium chicken broth, taking care to blend everything smoothly. At this stage, you’re setting the stage for that luscious texture this Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is known for.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli and Thicken
Add the freshly chopped broccoli florets to the pot. As the soup simmers, continue stirring for 6 to 8 minutes while it thickens. The broccoli softens and infuses the broth with its vibrant flavor, turning your soup a beautiful shade of green. Lower the heat once it reaches the perfect thickness, ensuring you don’t overcook and lose that slight bite in the broccoli.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese and Cream
This is where the soup transforms into pure indulgence. Stir in the heavy cream, then gradually add the sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until every bit melts into a heavenly, creamy mixture. The cheeses bring that unmistakable richness and cheesy depth that make this soup so memorable and crave-worthy.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, taste your creation and season with salt and pepper as needed. This last touch brings all the flavors together, ensuring every spoonful bursts with balanced savoriness. Your delicious Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your bowl with simple garnishes that add a pop of texture and flavor. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a dusting of Parmesan really brings out the cheesiness. For freshness, chopped chives or crisp fried shallots add a delightful crunch. Even a swirl of cream or a dash of smoked paprika can make your presentation stunning and taste even better.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread for dipping—think rustic baguette or sourdough. Garlic bread or cheesy toasted sandwiches create an indulgent combo that feels like a cozy meal made just for you. A light green salad with tangy vinaigrette also complements the richness, balancing every bite perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls. It’s an impressive and delightful way to enjoy every last drop. You can also drizzle it with pesto or olive oil for an unexpected flavor lift. If you love a bit of texture, top your soup with crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs. These little touches make the Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe feel like a special occasion any day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers can be even tastier – the convenience of a ready-made meal with zero fuss!
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe at a later date, it freezes well. Place the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. It should keep nicely for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it slowly in the fridge overnight to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Adding a splash of milk or cream during reheating helps restore the creamy consistency if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the soup smooth and luxurious.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with a good-quality vegetable broth to maintain depth without any meat. The soup will remain just as creamy and flavorful, perfect for vegetarians.
What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is the star here because of its bold flavor and excellent melting quality. Parmesan adds complexity, but you could also experiment with Gruyère or a mix of cheeses to suit your taste.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used and is quite convenient. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water that could thin the soup. The flavor and texture remain delicious.
Is this soup suitable for a gluten-free diet?
To make it gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch as a thickener. Be careful to check all other ingredients, like broth, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
How do I make the soup thicker or thinner?
If you prefer a thicker soup, add a bit more flour in the roux or let it simmer longer to reduce. For a thinner consistency, simply stir in additional milk or broth until it reaches your desired texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully comforting about making and sharing this Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe. It’s approachable enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough to impress guests. I hope you’ll give it a try and discover just how this humble bowl of soup can become your new favorite go-to comfort food. Grab your ladle and get ready for some serious spoonfuls of joy!
Print
Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Broccoli Cheese Soup combines tender broccoli florets with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses in a creamy, buttery base. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes, making it a delightful option for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 6 Tbsp butter
- 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 1/4 cups low-fat milk
- 14.5 oz low-sodium chicken broth
Vegetables and Dairy
- 3 cups finely chopped fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 10 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 oz finely shredded Parmesan cheese
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
- Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in the minced garlic and then sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onions and garlic. Cook this mixture for about one minute to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly to combine thoroughly.
- Add Liquids and Broccoli: Gradually whisk in the low-fat milk and low-sodium chicken broth to the pot, ensuring the mixture is smooth. Then, add the finely chopped fresh broccoli florets into the soup base.
- Cook Until Thickened: Continue cooking the soup over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens which typically takes 6-8 minutes. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low to prevent scorching.
- Add Cream and Cheeses: Stir in the heavy cream, sharp cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until all the cheeses have melted evenly into the soup, giving it a rich, creamy texture.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if preferred.
Notes
- For a smoother soup, blend part or all of the soup before adding the cream and cheeses.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting texture and flavor.
- Low-sodium chicken broth helps control the saltiness of the soup; adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat gently to avoid curdling.
