Creamy Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe

Name: Creamy Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Published: June 2, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy cheddar broccoli soup is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Its vibrant green color makes it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.
Versatile enough to enjoy as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Sharing this dish brought smiles from my family as they savored every last drop.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for the best flavor and nutrients; frozen works too if you’re in a pinch.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Use high-quality cheese for maximum flavor; the sharper the better for that cheesy goodness.
Vegetable Broth: Homemade broth adds depth; store-bought is fine if you’re short on time.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for best results.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the flavor; use minced garlic for a stronger punch.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess; substitute half-and-half if you want a lighter version.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control salt levels while adding richness to the base.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste; don’t skip them as they elevate the overall flavor.
Dried Thyme (optional): A hint of thyme complements the other flavors beautifully; use fresh thyme if available!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic and Broccoli: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Toss in fresh broccoli florets and mix well.

Pour in the Broth: Add vegetable broth to the pot, ensuring it covers the veggies entirely. Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

Blend It Smoothly: Using an immersion blender or regular blender (carefully!), blend until smooth but leave some chunky pieces of broccoli for texture.

Add Cream and Cheese: Return the pot to low heat, stir in heavy cream gradually while mixing well. Add shredded cheddar cheese slowly until melted into that dreamy consistency.

Season It Up!: Taste your creation and season with salt, pepper, and thyme if desired. Let it simmer gently for another few minutes before serving.

This comforting cheddar broccoli soup will quickly become your go-to recipe for cold weather or just when you need some cozy vibes!

You Must Know

Cheddar broccoli soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.
Its creamy texture paired with vibrant broccoli makes it both comforting and nutritious.
The aromas wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wandering in, spoon at the ready.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add broccoli and broth. Allow this to simmer before blending for that velvety finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheddar for other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack. Add spices like nutmeg or cayenne for an exciting twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh broccoli for a more vibrant flavor and color.
Avoid overcooking to keep that bright green hue intact.
Embrace your inner cheese lover; adding more cheddar enhances creaminess and taste!

Making this cheddar broccoli soup brings back memories of cozy family dinners, where laughter echoed around the table as we slurped our bowls clean.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli for cheddar broccoli soup?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well but may alter the soup’s texture slightly.

Is there a way to make cheddar broccoli soup vegan?

Absolutely! Replace cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based milk for creaminess.

How can I thicken my cheddar broccoli soup?

To thicken, add cornstarch mixed with cold water or blend some of the soup itself.

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