Do Share Recipe

Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe | Rich & Comforting

I still remember the first time I made this creamy broccoli cheese soup recipe on a cold evening when I wanted something warm and comforting. I stood by the stove watching the cheese melt into the broth, and I knew it was going to be good. The smell alone made my kitchen feel cozy and inviting. After the first spoonful, I was hooked by how rich and smooth it tasted. This soup quickly became one of my favorite comfort recipes to make again and again.

Ingredients

4 tablespoons butter – used for sautéing the vegetables and adding rich flavor to the soup base
1/2 medium onion, finely diced – builds a savory and slightly sweet flavor foundation
2 cups carrots, julienned – add natural sweetness, color, and texture
2 cloves garlic, minced – enhances overall flavor without overpowering the soup
1/4 cup all-purpose flour – thickens the soup and creates a smooth, creamy texture
3 cups vegetable broth – forms the main liquid base of the soup
2 cups half and half – provides creaminess without making the soup too heavy
3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped – fresh broccoli gives better flavor and texture than frozen
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard – balances the richness and sharpens the cheese flavor
1 teaspoon salt – enhances all the ingredients
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – adds mild warmth and depth
8 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated – melts smoothly and delivers bold cheese flavor

Note: This recipe makes approximately 6 servings based on the ingredient quantities.

Variations

You can easily customize this soup based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Dairy-free option: Use plant-based butter, unsweetened non-dairy milk, and dairy-free cheese.
Gluten-free option: Replace flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch slurry.
Extra protein: Add cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or white beans.
Spicy version: Stir in cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
Extra vegetables: Cauliflower or zucchini work well with broccoli.

Cooking Time

Here’s how long the recipe takes from start to finish:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large heavy-bottomed pot: Used for cooking the soup evenly without burning.
Wooden spoon: Helps stir the soup and prevent sticking.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
Cheese grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better than packaged shredded cheese.

How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

This soup comes together easily with simple steps and minimal effort.

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots and cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step builds the base flavor and brings out natural sweetness from the vegetables.

Add Garlic and Flour

Stir in the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for about a minute. This creates a roux that will thicken the soup evenly.

Add Liquids and Seasoning

Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the half and half, broccoli, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients smoothly.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook until the broccoli becomes tender but still vibrant in color. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the grated cheddar cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese melts completely and the soup becomes creamy and smooth. Avoid boiling to keep the texture silky.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Here are a few tips I always follow when making this soup:

I always use freshly grated cheese because it melts smoother.
I keep the heat low when adding cheese to prevent grainy texture.
If the soup thickens too much, I add a splash of broth or milk.
I taste and adjust seasoning at the end for the best flavor.
Letting the soup rest for a few minutes makes it even creamier.

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

This soup is comforting on its own but also pairs beautifully with other foods.

Serve it in warm bowls to keep it hot longer. Garnish with extra shredded cheese or freshly cracked black pepper for a polished look. A drizzle of cream or olive oil adds visual appeal. It pairs well with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad, and you can also enjoy it alongside a refreshing blueberry mojito or a classic mint mojito for a balanced meal experience.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general nutritional overview per serving:

Calories: Approximately 380–400
Protein: About 14 grams
Carbohydrates: Around 17 grams
Fat: About 30 grams

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigerator

Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing

The soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Because it contains dairy, the texture may slightly change, but gentle reheating helps restore creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat while stirring. Add a little broth or milk if the soup becomes too thick after storage.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons this soup deserves a spot in your meal rotation.

Comforting and creamy: Every spoonful feels rich and satisfying.
Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients and one-pot cooking make it stress-free.
Highly customizable: Works well with dietary swaps and add-ins.
Family-friendly: The cheesy flavor appeals to kids and adults alike.

Ben Carraoli