There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup, especially when it’s homemade. This rich and velvety soup combines tender broccoli, sweet carrots, and a luscious, cheesy broth. Whether you’re looking to serve it as a light meal or as a hearty appetizer, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste. Grab your soup pot and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy

The creamy texture of this soup comes from a combination of half and half and cheese, making every spoonful indulgent and comforting. It’s a perfect cozy meal for chilly days.

2. Packed with Vegetables

This soup is loaded with fresh broccoli and carrots, making it a nutritious option. You’re getting plenty of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants with every bite.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

This recipe is straightforward and can be whipped up in about 30 minutes. You don’t need any fancy techniques to achieve a rich, flavorful soup.

4. Versatile Flavor

The combination of savory seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, and dry mustard gives the soup a depth of flavor that complements the richness of the cheddar cheese and the freshness of the vegetables.

5. Perfect for All Occasions

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a comforting lunch, or as a starter to a more elaborate meal. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad.

Ingredients

Butter
Yellow onion, finely chopped
Salted butter
All-purpose flour
Chicken broth
Half and half
Fresh broccoli (roughly chopped)
Carrots, peeled and chopped
Kosher salt
Paprika
Garlic powder
Dry mustard (or regular mustard)
Black pepper
Cheddar cheese, shredded

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.
Spicy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to throw in extra veggies like cauliflower, potatoes, or bell peppers for a twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make this soup gluten-free.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the butter and cheese with dairy-free alternatives like plant-based butter and vegan cheddar.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Add the salted butter to the pot with the onions, and once melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour and make a roux.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Half and Half

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the half and half, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Stir in the chopped broccoli and carrots. Season with kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, dry mustard, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Blend the Soup (Optional)

If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup directly in the pot. You can also transfer the soup in batches to a blender, but be sure to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid splashing.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Once the soup has reached the desired consistency, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. You can garnish with extra cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of paprika, or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

For a Creamier Soup: You can substitute part or all of the half and half with heavy cream for an even richer texture.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keep an eye on the broccoli so it doesn’t become mushy. It should be tender but still vibrant green.
Add Cheese Gradually: Add the cheese in small batches, stirring after each addition, to ensure it melts smoothly without separating.
Adjust Thickness: If the soup becomes too thick after it cools, simply add a little more chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency.

How to Serve

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even a side of crispy bacon. It’s a comforting meal on its own or a great starter to a larger dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let the soup cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely and then store in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little more broth or water as needed.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh, but be sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.

2. How can I make this soup spicier?

You can add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even a diced jalapeño for some heat.

3. Can I use heavy cream instead of half and half?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream for a richer, thicker soup.

4. Can I make this soup without flour?

You can skip the flour, but you may need to adjust the liquid to get the desired thickness. Alternatively, you could use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup.

5. How can I make the soup vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.

6. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, so you can make it ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.

7. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

8. Can I use a different cheese?

While cheddar is traditional, you can use other cheeses like gouda, gruyère, or even a combination for a unique twist.

9. How do I make the soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, cook the soup for a bit longer to allow the liquid to reduce or add a bit more flour to thicken it.

10. How do I avoid clumpy cheese in the soup?

Make sure the soup is not boiling when you add the cheese, and add it in small batches while stirring constantly to prevent clumps.

Conclusion

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a perfect combination of comfort and flavor, making it a go-to recipe for cozy nights in. It’s packed with healthy vegetables, rich cheese, and plenty of satisfying creaminess. Whether you’re serving it as a meal or a starter, this soup is sure to warm you up and leave you craving more. Try it today and enjoy the taste of homemade comfort!