Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Introduction

This Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting and creamy dish perfect for chilly days. Packed with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar, it makes a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 cup onion, diced
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded (sharp preferred)
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the diced onions until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
3. Step 3: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency, either smooth or slightly chunky.
4. Step 4: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
5. Step 5: Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra cheese or croutons.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the cheese flavor.
• Use a mix of sharp and mild cheddar for a balanced taste.
• For extra texture, reserve some broccoli florets to add back in after blending.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain a creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well and makes the recipe even more convenient. Just be sure to simmer until the broccoli is tender.

How can I make the soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce liquid, or add a small amount of flour or cornstarch slurry before blending.

Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 128 reviews

A creamy and comforting broccoli cheese soup made with sautéed onions, tender broccoli, rich heavy cream, and sharp cheddar cheese. This hearty, flavorful soup is perfect served warm for a cozy meal or appetizer.

• Author: Sienna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 cup onion, diced
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

Liquids

• 2 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 cup heavy cream

Dairy

• 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp butter (for sautéing onions)

Instructions

1. Base Preparation: Gather all ingredients and prepare by dicing the onion and measuring out the broccoli florets and liquids.
2. Sauté Onions: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onions and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant, which forms a flavorful base for the soup.
3. Add Broccoli and Broth: Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender, softening the vegetables for blending.
4. Blend Soup: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until you reach your desired consistency, whether fully smooth or with some small chunks for texture.
5. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring over low heat until the cheese has completely melted and the soup is creamy and smooth. Do not bring to boil to avoid curdling the cream.

Notes

• For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more cheese.
• Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor, but mild cheddar can be substituted.
• You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, although the texture will be less rich.
• Fresh broccoli gives a brighter flavor, but frozen broccoli works just as well and is convenient.
• Serve with crusty bread or croutons for a hearty meal.

Keywords: broccoli cheese soup, creamy broccoli soup, vegetarian soup, cheddar cheese soup, healthy broccoli recipe