Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting bowl of cheesy goodness that warms you from the inside out, this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It strikes the perfect balance between creamy, cheesy, and fresh with tender broccoli pieces. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends for a casual meal, this soup is quick to make, comforting, and packed with flavor — a true classic that never disappoints.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping it simple is the secret here. Each ingredient brings something essential to the table: richness from butter and cheddar, freshness from broccoli and celery, and a silky texture courtesy of flour and milk. Together, they create a harmonious blend that’s both hearty and smooth.

• 5 tbsp unsalted butter: For that rich, velvety base to sauté the onions and build flavor.
• ½ onion, chopped: Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation that softens during cooking.
• ⅓ cup all purpose flour: This thickens the soup, giving it that luscious, creamy consistency.
• 2 cups chicken stock: Provides depth and savory richness to the broth.
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced: Offers a mild, fresh crunch and balances the creaminess.
• 2½ cups broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces: The star veggie that adds color, texture, and nutrients.
• 2 cups whole milk: Brings richness with a smooth, gentle creaminess.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to infuse the soup with cheesy goodness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning essentials to brighten and enhance all flavors.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar (for topping): Extra cheese to sprinkle on top for that irresistible finishing touch.

How to Make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Onions in Butter

Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook gently until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This slow sweating process draws out their natural sweetness and forms the foundation for the soup’s deep flavor.

Step 2: Whisk in Flour

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened onions and stir well to combine. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste while creating a roux that will thicken your soup to perfection.

Step 3: Add Chicken Stock and Season

Gradually pour in the chicken stock while whisking to avoid lumps. Season generously with salt and pepper now, this helps build layers of seasoning as the soup simmers.

Step 4: Incorporate Celery and Broccoli, Then Simmer

Stir in the finely diced celery and the broccoli pieces. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender and beautifully infused in the broth.

Step 5: Add Milk and Thicken the Soup

Pour in the whole milk and continue simmering gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This step softens the soup without making it too thick — it should still have a wonderfully soupy texture that coats the back of a wooden spoon.

Step 6: Melt in the Cheddar Cheese

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese in small handfuls. Allow the cheese to melt fully before adding more, ensuring that silky, cheesy richness permeates the entire soup.

Step 7: Final Seasoning and Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese. Your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A little goes a long way when it comes to garnishing this soup. Try a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or crispy bacon bits to elevate both flavor and presentation. A small swirl of sour cream or a dash of smoked paprika also adds a lovely depth.

Side Dishes

This soup shines alongside crusty bread, warm garlic toast, or soft dinner rolls — perfect for dipping and soaking up that cheesy broth. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements the richness beautifully and keeps the meal feeling balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic flair. You can also portion it into small ramekins for a charming appetizer or pack it in mason jars to create an inviting, cozy lunch on the go. Presentation makes the experience even more special!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Because this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe contains dairy, it’s best enjoyed fresh but still holds up well when chilled.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup if you want to save it for later, but keep in mind that the texture may slightly change when thawed due to the dairy. Use a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and to reincorporate any separated cheese or milk. Adding a splash of milk or stock while reheating helps revive its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken stock with vegetable broth, and you’ll maintain all the savory, comforting qualities without the meat-based ingredient.

What type of cheddar cheese works best?

A sharp cheddar delivers the most vibrant cheesy flavor, but feel free to use medium or mild cheddar if you prefer a subtler taste. Freshly shredded cheese always melts better than pre-shredded varieties.

Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry. Just be mindful to whisk well while adding to avoid lumps and achieve that perfect creamy texture.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Sure thing! Frozen broccoli works well and can be added directly during the simmer step. Just watch the cooking time closely because frozen broccoli tends to cook faster.

How thick should the soup be?

The ideal Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe should be creamy but still somewhat soupy, thick enough to coat the back of a spoon without being overly heavy or pasty.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe to brighten your day and soothe your soul. It’s quick, approachable, and bursting with flavor—perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you need a hug in a bowl. Give it a try soon and watch it become one of your all-time favorite comfort soups!

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