Broccoli Cheese Soup: A Velvety Comfort Classic That Warms the Soul 🥦🧀🔥
1. Introduction
When the weather turns chilly or you simply crave some serious comfort food, nothing satisfies quite like a steaming bowl of homemade broccoli cheese soup. This rich, creamy, and utterly delicious broccoli cheese soup recipe combines fresh broccoli florets with a velvety cheese sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, an impressive starter for your next gathering, or just a wholesome meal to warm you up, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating restaurant-quality soup in your own kitchen. If you love creamy soups, you might also enjoy our collection of dinner recipes that are perfect for any occasion.
2. Ingredients
To make this irresistible broccoli cheese soup recipe that serves 4-6 people, you’ll need these simple ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for that rich, creamy base)
1 medium onion, finely chopped (yellow or white onions work best)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (this helps thicken the soup perfectly)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional but adds wonderful depth)
For more ingredient inspiration, check out our complete recipe collection featuring hundreds of delicious ideas.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables to Perfection
Begin by melting the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. The heavy pot helps distribute heat evenly. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they soften but haven’t taken on color. Stir in the chopped broccoli florets and shredded carrot, cooking for an additional 3 minutes until the vegetables just begin to soften but still retain some crispness. This step builds the flavor foundation for your broccoli cheese soup recipe.
Step 2: Create the Luxurious Soup Base
Now it’s time to build your soup’s liquid foundation. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to incorporate all the flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil) and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the vegetables to become tender but not mushy. This slow cooking process is what makes this broccoli cheese soup recipe stand out from the rest. The broth will take on all the wonderful vegetable flavors during this step.
Step 3: Thicken the Soup to Creamy Perfection
Here’s where the magic happens! Whisk in the flour until fully incorporated and no lumps remain – this creates the roux that will thicken your soup. Then gradually add the milk while continuing to whisk constantly. This technique prevents lumps and creates a smooth, velvety base for your broccoli cheese soup recipe. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and that optional but wonderful nutmeg. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that complements the cheese beautifully. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until the soup thickens slightly. If you’re looking for more creamy soup ideas, our breakfast recipes section has some wonderful options.
Step 4: Add the Cheese for Ultimate Indulgence
Now for the star of the show – the cheese! Reduce heat to low (very important to prevent the cheese from breaking) and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, waiting until each addition melts completely before adding more. This patience pays off with the creamiest texture. Stir gently until all the cheese is incorporated and the soup is luxuriously smooth. Be extra careful not to let the soup boil after adding the cheese – high heat can cause the dairy to separate. For more cheesy recipe inspiration, take a look at our sheet pan chicken fajitas that also feature delicious melted cheese.
4. Professional Cooking Tips
After testing this broccoli cheese soup recipe countless times, here are my professional tips for absolute perfection:
Always use freshly shredded cheese from a block – pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that can make your soup grainy
Cut broccoli florets into small, uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easier eating
Adjust thickness to your preference by adding more broth for a thinner soup or more cheese for extra creaminess
Let the soup rest for 5-10 minutes before serving – this allows flavors to develop fully
If reheating leftovers, do so gently over low heat with frequent stirring
For extra flavor, try adding a Parmesan rind while simmering the broth
For more expert cooking advice, visit our about page where we share all our culinary secrets.
5. Serving Suggestions That Wow
This broccoli cheese soup recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some mouthwatering ways to present it:
Crusty artisan bread or warm garlic bread for dipping
Freshly baked bread bowls – hollow out small round loaves and ladle soup inside
A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness
Oyster crackers, homemade croutons, or even tortilla chips for added texture
Garnish with extra shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of cream
For special occasions, serve in small espresso cups as an elegant appetizer
6. Storage & Reheating Instructions
While this broccoli cheese soup recipe tastes best fresh, here’s how to handle leftovers:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months (texture may change slightly)
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently
Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore creamy consistency
Microwave reheating works but stir every 30 seconds to prevent separation
Freshly grated cheese stirred in after reheating can refresh the flavor
7. Nutritional Information
(Per serving, based on 4 generous servings):
Calories: 420 (great for a satisfying meal)
Protein: 18g (from the cheese and milk)
Carbohydrates: 18g (mostly from the vegetables)
Fat: 32g (this is a rich, comforting soup)
Fiber: 3g (broccoli provides good fiber)
Calcium: 45% Daily Value (excellent bone health benefits)
Vitamin C: 80% DV (broccoli is packed with nutrients)
This foolproof broccoli cheese soup recipe is guaranteed to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. The perfect harmony of fresh, crisp broccoli swimming in a velvety sea of melted sharp cheddar creates a comforting dish that satisfies on so many levels. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests at your next gathering, this recipe delivers every time. The techniques shared here – from proper vegetable preparation to careful cheese incorporation – ensure professional results every time you make it. Inspired by the wonderful version at Cooking Classy, we’ve added our own special touches to create what we believe is the ultimate broccoli cheese soup experience. Don’t be surprised if this creamy, dreamy broccoli cheese soup becomes your new go-to comfort food that everyone requests again and again!
This rich and creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe combines fresh broccoli florets with a velvety cheese sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for chilly days, this easy-to-make soup delivers restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
2 cups whole milk
3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
1 large carrot, shredded
2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in chopped broccoli florets and shredded carrot, cooking for 3 minutes until vegetables soften.
Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring continuously. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Whisk in flour until incorporated, then gradually add milk while continuing to whisk.
Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted.
Let soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting
Cut broccoli florets into small, bite-sized pieces for easier eating
Adjust thickness by adding more broth or cheese as needed
Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
