Warm, creamy, and loaded with flavor — this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food you’ll crave on chilly days. With fresh broccoli, shredded carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese, it delivers that cozy, restaurant-quality taste right at home. Perfect as a main meal or a starter, this homemade version is both hearty and easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture: The combination of butter, flour, and milk creates a velvety-smooth base.
- Packed with veggies: Broccoli and carrots make it wholesome and nourishing.
- Better than takeout: Skip the drive-thru—this homemade version tastes fresher and costs less.
- Perfect for meal prep: Stores and reheats beautifully, making it great for lunches and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional, enhances flavor)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add the half-and-half or milk and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the chopped broccoli and shredded carrots. Cook for about 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Taste and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
- Serve warm with extra cheese on top or alongside a crusty piece of bread.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty sourdough bread or garlic toast for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.
- Top with crispy bacon bits or croutons for added texture.
Recipe Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Adjust the thickness: For a thinner soup, add more broth; for a thicker one, let it simmer longer.
- Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken or ham for a heartier version.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat gently: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
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Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a classic comfort dish made simple and satisfying. Every spoonful is rich, cheesy, and full of fresh vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out.
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