Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

This Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup is rich, creamy, and filled with tender broccoli florets, making it a perfect meal for those chilly days when you crave something warm and comforting. It’s made with simple ingredients like cheddar cheese, fresh broccoli, and milk, creating a velvety smooth soup that’s delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or pairing it with a crusty loaf of bread for a heartier meal, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup

I love making broccoli cheese soup because it’s not only super easy, but also incredibly flavorful and nutritious. The broccoli adds a healthy dose of vitamins, while the cheese gives it that irresistible richness. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, and kids love it too! Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, this soup hits the spot every time.

Pair this soup with a fresh salad like Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese Recipe or serve it alongside Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes Recipe for a complete, comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

• Creamy and Rich: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and creamy milk creates a velvety, indulgent soup that’s rich in flavor.
• Easy to Make: This soup comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
• Nutritious and Comforting: Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals, making this soup both delicious and nutritious.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, thanks to the cheesy, creamy goodness.

Main Ingredients for Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup

1. Broccoli – Fresh broccoli florets are the star of the soup, providing a bright, nutritious base.
2. Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar cheese gives the soup its rich, cheesy flavor.
3. Milk and Cream – A combination of milk and heavy cream creates a luscious, smooth texture.
4. Onion and Garlic – These aromatics add depth and flavor to the soup.
5. Vegetable Broth – Adds savory flavor to the soup while keeping it light.
6. Butter and Flour – These create a roux that helps thicken the soup to the perfect consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Here’s how to make this creamy, comforting broccoli cheese soup step by step:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 finely diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
   • Tip: Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir constantly to ensure it softens evenly.
2. Make the Roux: Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly browned. This helps thicken the soup and gives it a rich texture.
   • Pro Tip: For a gluten-free version, you can use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the soup.
3. Add the Broth and Broccoli: Slowly whisk in 3 cups of vegetable broth, making sure to dissolve the roux completely. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
   • Variation: You can also use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available. Just add it directly to the simmering broth without thawing.
4. Blend the Soup: Once the broccoli is tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. You can leave some broccoli pieces intact if you prefer a chunkier texture.
   • Tip: If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend in batches.
5. Add Milk and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Gradually add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
   • Pro Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting results, as pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can prevent smooth melting.
6. Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (optional) to enhance the flavor. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese, croutons, or chopped green onions.
   • Serving Idea: This soup pairs perfectly with a warm slice of crusty bread or garlic toast.

Extra Tips and Variations

• Add More Vegetables: For added nutrition, you can stir in cooked carrots, cauliflower, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup.
• How to Store: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
• How to Freeze: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly to prevent the cream from separating.

Health Benefits of Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup

This soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Broccoli is a great source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health. The cheese provides calcium, which is essential for bone health, while the combination of milk and cream adds richness without being too heavy. It’s a satisfying dish that balances indulgence with nutritional benefits.

• Rich in Vitamins: Broccoli is packed with vitamins C and K, which support immune health and bone strength.
• High in Calcium: The cheese and milk provide a good source of calcium, essential for bone health.
• Low-Carb Option: For a lower-carb version, you can skip the flour and use a blend of cream and cheese to thicken the soup naturally.