Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup

This Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup is rich, creamy, and made entirely from scratch using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. It comes together in one pot, uses frozen broccoli for convenience, and delivers that classic cheddar-forward flavor, without being overly thick or grainy. This homemade broccoli cheddar soup is comforting, satisfying, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week.

Why You Will Love This Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe

• Classic Comfort Food Favorite: This creamy broccoli cheddar soup delivers the familiar flavors everyone loves, with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a silky smooth base.
• Easy One-Pot Soup: Everything cooks in a single pot, making this an easy homemade soup recipe with minimal cleanup.
• Great for Meal Prep: This broccoli cheddar cheese soup stores well in the refrigerator and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for make-ahead lunches or dinners.
• Customizable Texture and Flavor: Keep it chunky, lightly mash it, or blend part of the soup depending on how smooth you like your broccoli cheese soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Butter: Can be replaced with olive oil, though butter provides the best flavor.
• Chicken Stock: Use vegetable stock to make this soup vegetarian.
• Heavy Cream: Half-and-half can be used, but the soup will be slightly thinner.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best. A blend of cheddar and mild Colby Jack can also be used.
• Frozen Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets can be substituted. Chop into small pieces for even cooking.
• Carrots: Optional, but they add color and subtle sweetness.

How to Prepare Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup

1. Melt the butter in a deep pot over medium heat.
2. Add the minced onion, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for a few minutes until softened.
3. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Slowly pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream, whisking constantly to smooth out any lumps.
5. Add the broccoli and carrot matchsticks. Bring the soup just to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
7. Lower the heat. Slowly incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
8. Serve warm and garnish with cracked black pepper.

How to Serve and Store

• Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or in a bread bowl.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently over low heat, stirring often. Avoid boiling to prevent the cheese from separating.
• Freezing is NOT recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen? Yes. Fresh broccoli also works. Chop it into small florets, so it cooks evenly within the simmer time.
• Why is my broccoli cheddar soup grainy? Graininess usually happens when cheese is added over high heat, or when pre-shredded cheese is used. Keep the heat low and add cheese slowly.
• Can I make this soup thicker? Yes. Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or slightly increase the flour to 1/3 cup.
• Can this soup be frozen? Cream-based soups don’t freeze well, as the texture can separate. This soup is best enjoyed fresh, or refrigerated for a few days.
• Can I use an immersion blender to make this soup smoother? Yes. For a smooth and creamy broccoli cheddar soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot before adding the cheese. You can fully blend it for a silky texture, or partially blend it to keep some chunks of broccoli for texture.

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GET TO KNOW ME!

WELCOME! My name is Melissa Latin aka. Charlotte Fashion Plate. Happy to meet you! I am more than just recipes. I love fashion and style too! Most importantly, I love my Family (my Hubby and my Fur Babies). My Husband (aka my “Kitchen Bitch”) means the world to me. He’s pretty damn cool too. Not only is he one of the nicest guys you will ever meet, he also has had a lengthy career in professional hockey. Not only winning two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the early ’90’s, but most recently winning the Calder Cup with the Charlotte Checkers, amongst many other accolades. If you live in Charlotte and play hockey, or have a family member who plays, be sure to contact him!

Our life has changed dramatically in the past few years with the passing of our two goldendoodles, Vegas and Viva. We were lucky enough to have Vegas for five years (totally wish it was longer). Most recently, losing our Viva to a brain tumor in July of 2020. We welcomed our mini goldendoodle 7, almost seven years ago. We just added the amazing Hazel! Of course, I am always posting tons and tons of photos! Be sure to check out my recipe for Pet Bone Broth! This broth is super rich in nutrients and will provide your pet with a multitude of health benefits!

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