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Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

5.1 from 5 reviews

This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines tender broccoli florets and diced potatoes in a rich, cheesy broth made with sharp cheddar cheese and a touch of heavy cream. Perfect as a comforting lunch or dinner, this soup is flavorful, hearty, and simple to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 medium sweet onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 5 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
  • 2 cups diced russet potatoes

Dairy & Fats

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 8 ounces shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese (about 2 cups)

Pantry & Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 1/2 cups chicken stock
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onion: Melt butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. This enhances the soup’s depth of flavor.
  3. Make Roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook it until lightly browned, about 1 minute. This will thicken the soup base later during cooking.
  4. Add Broth: Gradually stir in the chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. These add extra flavor.
  5. Simmer Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
  6. Thicken Soup: Using a wooden spoon, mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot to slightly thicken the soup. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Cook Broccoli: Stir in the chopped broccoli and heavy cream. Cover the pot and cook until the broccoli is tender, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let the soup cool for 2 minutes.
  8. Add Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring continuously until smooth and fully melted. Season once more with salt and pepper if desired.
  9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately for a warm and comforting meal.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup before adding the cheese.
  • Use extra-sharp cheddar for the best rich, tangy flavor.
  • Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stove to avoid curdling the cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, creamy broccoli soup, cheddar cheese soup, easy broccoli soup, comfort food soup