Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a beloved classic that perfectly blends the freshness of broccoli with the rich, creamy flavor of cheddar cheese. Known for its velvety texture and satisfying warmth, this soup is a go-to comfort food during colder months or whenever you’re craving something cozy and hearty. Each spoonful brings together tender bites of broccoli and carrots in a luscious, cheese-infused broth that both warms and delights the senses.
One of the best things about Broccoli Cheddar Soup is its versatility and ease of preparation. This recipe lets you control the flavors and texture, allowing you to tailor the soup to your preference—whether you enjoy it chunky or prefer a smoother, creamier consistency. Plus, it’s a great way to get a good dose of vegetables without compromising on taste!
Making this soup at home is straightforward. Start by sautéing onions and spices for a flavor-packed base, then create a creamy roux to thicken the soup. Next, add in broth and half-and-half for a rich texture, followed by fresh broccoli and carrots. After simmering until everything is tender, blend part of the soup for smoothness (if desired), and finish by stirring in plenty of cheddar cheese. Serve it hot in a bread bowl or with buttered bread on the side, and enjoy your homemade, restaurant-quality Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Why Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup at Home?
Making Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home offers numerous benefits over store-bought or restaurant versions. First and foremost, homemade soup allows you to control the quality and freshness of ingredients, which is often hard to guarantee with pre-packaged options. Unlike store-bought versions that may contain preservatives, excess sodium, or artificial flavors, homemade soup is naturally flavorful, relying on fresh vegetables, real cheese, and spices for a more wholesome taste.
Another key advantage is customization. When you make it at home, you can adjust the recipe to suit your dietary preferences. Want a lower-sodium version? Simply reduce the salt or use a low-sodium broth. Prefer extra-sharp cheddar? You can choose high-quality cheese that matches your taste. Additionally, this recipe is easily adaptable to be vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth.
In short, homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines healthier ingredients, better flavor, and the flexibility to tailor it exactly to your liking, making it a satisfying and rewarding meal choice.
Ingredients Breakdown
Broccoli Cheddar Soup’s deliciously layered flavors come from a carefully balanced selection of ingredients, each adding depth, texture, or richness to the soup. Here’s a closer look at the key components and how they contribute to this comforting classic.
Base Ingredients
The flavor foundation of this soup relies on a few choice spices: paprika, mustard, and cayenne. Smoked paprika adds a subtle warmth and smoky flavor, enhancing the richness of the soup. Ground mustard introduces a tangy, almost sharp note that complements the cheese, while a dash of cayenne pepper adds a hint of spice to balance the creaminess. Together, these spices create a robust, flavorful base without overpowering the mild sweetness of the vegetables or the cheese.
Thickening and Liquid Base
The thickness and creaminess of this soup are achieved with a roux and half-and-half. A roux, made by cooking flour with butter, thickens the soup and provides a smooth, velvety texture. Half-and-half, a mix of milk and cream, lends the soup a rich mouthfeel without it being too heavy. For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour for the roux, while dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or cashew milk can substitute for half-and-half. These substitutions still achieve a creamy consistency while accommodating different dietary needs.
Vegetables
The main vegetable stars here are broccoli and carrots. Broccoli adds both flavor and texture, and its mild bitterness pairs well with sharp cheddar. Carrots contribute a hint of natural sweetness and a slight crunch. For best results, choose broccoli with vibrant green florets and firm stalks, as this freshness will translate into more flavorful soup.
Cheese
Extra-sharp cheddar cheese is essential to give this soup its signature cheesy richness. The bold, tangy notes of extra-sharp cheddar are ideal for a rich soup, but if you prefer a milder or different flavor, you can substitute with mild cheddar, Gruyère, or even a combination of cheeses. Each cheese choice brings a unique taste, allowing for flexibility based on your flavor preferences.
Detailed Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Spices
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of butter with olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add finely diced yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes golden and fragrant. For the best results, keep the heat moderate to avoid burning; you want the onion to turn soft and golden, not brown. Next, add minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground mustard, and a dash of cayenne. Sautéing the spices briefly—about 45 seconds to 1 minute—helps them release their essential oils and flavor, which deepens the taste of the soup without overwhelming it.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Once the onions and spices are fragrant, add the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter to the pot. Allow it to melt, then sprinkle in the flour gradually, whisking continuously to combine. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth, golden paste (the roux). The roux is essential for thickening the soup, as it combines with the liquids later on to create a rich, creamy texture. Stirring constantly is key here, as it prevents the roux from sticking or burning, ensuring a smooth, well-incorporated base for the soup.
Step 3: Add Broth and Half-and-Half
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, whisking constantly to blend it smoothly with the roux. Adding the broth gradually prevents lumps and ensures a silky consistency. Once the broth is fully incorporated, begin adding the half-and-half in a steady stream, whisking to create a creamy, cohesive base. For additional depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf to the pot—this will infuse the soup with a subtle aromatic hint.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 minutes. This gentle simmering thickens the soup as the roux works its magic, creating a velvety texture. Stir occasionally to prevent the soup from sticking to the bottom and keep it smooth. At the end of this step, the soup should be thicker and creamy but not too heavy.
Step 4: Add Broccoli and Carrots
While the soup base simmers, prepare the broccoli by chopping it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Shred or thinly slice the carrots for faster tenderizing. Add the chopped broccoli and shredded carrots to the pot, stirring to ensure they’re evenly distributed. Broccoli and carrots complement each other in flavor and texture, with the broccoli adding a bit of bite and the carrots providing natural sweetness. For a twist, you can also add other vegetables, such as cauliflower or green peas, which add more flavor layers and nutritional benefits without changing the soup’s classic profile.
Step 5: Cook Until Tender
Allow the soup to continue cooking on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli reaches your desired tenderness. To test, pierce a broccoli piece with a fork—if it slides in easily, the broccoli is tender. If you prefer a smoother soup, consider blending a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or transferring a few cups to a regular blender (be cautious of the hot liquid and vent the lid slightly). Blending part of the soup thickens it further and adds creaminess while leaving some vegetables whole for a heartier texture.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Turn off the heat before adding the grated cheddar cheese to prevent it from curdling. Gradually stir in the cheese, adding a handful at a time and allowing it to melt fully before adding more. This slow incorporation keeps the soup creamy and prevents a grainy texture. Use extra-sharp cheddar for a bold, rich flavor, but feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to suit your preference—adding more for an ultra-cheesy soup or a bit less for a milder taste. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed after the cheese is fully incorporated.
Step 7: Serve
Serve your Broccoli Cheddar Soup immediately while it’s hot, in bread bowls or with hearty buttered bread on the side for dipping. For an added touch, garnish with freshly cracked pepper, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley. Enjoy the creamy, comforting warmth of this homemade classic!
Tips for Success and Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup requires a few careful techniques to ensure a smooth, creamy texture and balanced flavor. Here are essential tips to achieve soup success while avoiding common pitfalls.
Cheese Curdling Prevention
One common challenge with cheese soups is preventing curdling, which can happen if the cheese is added at high heat. To avoid this, always turn off the heat before stirring in the cheese, allowing it to melt gently in the residual warmth of the soup. Add the cheese gradually—a handful at a time—stirring well to fully melt each addition before adding more. This slow process keeps the cheese smooth and creamy without separating.
Blending Tips for Texture Variations
For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot. Blend just until you achieve your desired consistency, leaving some chunks of broccoli for texture, if desired. If using a regular blender, transfer a few cups of the soup to blend (always be cautious with hot liquids). Vent the blender lid slightly and cover it with a kitchen towel to release steam safely and prevent splatters. Blending a portion of the soup creates a silky base while retaining some heartiness.
Adjusting Seasonings
Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be seasoned to taste, so be sure to sample it as you go. After adding the cheese, taste the soup and adjust with salt, pepper, or extra spices, such as a pinch more smoked paprika or cayenne for added depth or heat. Remember, cheese contains salt, so adjust salt sparingly at first to avoid over-seasoning.
Customizing Consistency
You can easily adjust the soup’s consistency to your liking. For a thinner soup, add more broth gradually, stirring well after each addition. If you prefer a thicker soup, add more cheese or allow the soup to simmer longer to reduce. This flexibility allows you to create a texture that’s perfectly suited to your taste.
Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also offers several nutritional benefits. The star ingredient, broccoli, is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, K, and A, along with fiber and antioxidants that support immune function and digestion. Carrots add a boost of beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A to support eye health, as well as fiber to aid digestion.
The cheddar cheese and half-and-half contribute a creamy texture and rich flavor, while also adding protein and calcium. Cheese is a good source of protein and fat, which helps make the soup more filling, and calcium, which is essential for bone health. Together with the dairy, this soup provides a satisfying source of protein, making it a balanced meal option.
For a lighter, lower-calorie version, try using a reduced amount of cheese, swapping half-and-half for milk, or using a non-dairy alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk. These substitutions lower the calorie content while maintaining a creamy texture, allowing you to enjoy a healthier version of this classic comfort food.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cheese works best for Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Extra-sharp cheddar is the top choice for Broccoli Cheddar Soup because its strong, tangy flavor holds up well when blended with the other ingredients, giving the soup a rich, cheesy taste. Mild cheddar also works but results in a more subtle flavor. For added complexity, you can mix cheddar with cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute or olive oil, use non-dairy milk (such as almond, oat, or coconut milk) in place of half-and-half, and swap the cheddar cheese for a plant-based cheese. Keep in mind that coconut milk will add a slight coconut flavor, so unsweetened almond or oat milk is often preferred for a more neutral taste.
How can I store or freeze leftovers?
To store, let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For freezing, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the cheese from curdling or separating.
What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Broccoli Cheddar Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh baguette, perfect for dipping. You could also serve it in a bread bowl for a fun, hearty presentation. For a more balanced meal, consider adding a side salad or serving it alongside roasted vegetables.
How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?
For a thicker soup, simmer it a bit longer to reduce the liquid, or add more cheese to increase its richness. You can also blend a larger portion of the soup for extra thickness. To thin the soup, simply add a bit more broth or milk, stirring until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Conclusion and Serving Suggestions
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the earthy taste of broccoli with the rich, creamy flavor of cheddar cheese. This homemade version allows you to enjoy its cozy, satisfying warmth while tailoring the flavors and texture to your liking. With just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality soup right in your kitchen.
Serve this delicious soup in a warm bread bowl or pair it with crusty, buttered bread for dipping. For a complete meal, enjoy it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. Dive into the flavors of this comforting classic and savor every bite!
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Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Description
This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is packed with sharp cheddar cheese, tender broccoli, and a hint of spice for warmth. Perfect for chilly days, serve it with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
- Base Ingredients:
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (about 1 onion)
- 1–1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3/4 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika recommended)
- 3/4 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Thickening and Liquid Base:
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 32 ounces low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups)
- 3 cups half-and-half (see note)
- Vegetables:
- 6 cups broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- Cheese:
- 12 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 3–1/4 cups)
- Optional:
- 1 bay leaf
- Hearty buttered bread or bread bowls for serving
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Onions and Spices:
In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden (about 3–5 minutes). Add the minced garlic, paprika, mustard, cayenne, and a dash of pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, for 45 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
2️⃣ Make the Roux:
Add the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter to the pot. Once melted, whisk in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it thickens and forms a paste.
3️⃣ Add the Broth and Half-and-Half:
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth until smooth and combined. Slowly add the half-and-half while continuing to whisk. Reduce heat to medium-low, add the bay leaf (if using), and simmer for 15 minutes, whisking occasionally until the soup has thickened.
4️⃣ Add Broccoli and Carrots:
While the soup simmers, chop the broccoli and shred the cheese. Add the broccoli and shredded carrots to the pot, stirring to combine.
5️⃣ Cook Until Tender:
Let the soup cook on low for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender to your liking, stirring occasionally. For a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender, or leave it chunky for a heartier feel.
6️⃣ Add the Cheese:
Turn off the heat and gradually stir in the grated cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until melted. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt (start with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon as needed).
7️⃣ Serve:
Serve immediately in bread bowls or with hearty buttered bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup!
Notes
- Half-and-Half: If you don’t have half-and-half, you can substitute with a mix of equal parts whole milk and heavy cream.
- Blending Option: Blending part of the soup will create a smoother, thicker texture, while leaving it unblended will result in a more rustic, chunky soup.
