Broccoli Cheese Soup is one of those classic comfort foods that never goes out of style. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a favorite in homes and restaurants alike. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a gathering of friends, or meal prepping for the week, this soup hits the spot every time. With its velvety texture, hearty broccoli chunks, and melted cheese, it’s a satisfying bowl of goodness that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
What makes this Broccoli Cheese Soup so irresistible is its perfect balance of flavors. The natural sweetness of the broccoli blends seamlessly with the savory richness of the cheese, while a base of broth and cream adds depth and creaminess. This soup is both filling and nourishing, with a subtle, comforting flavor profile that makes it an ideal dish for chilly days or when you need a hearty, warming meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 medium head of broccoli)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 2 cups half-and-half (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on preference)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional, for added depth)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for a subtle warm flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets. You can also peel and dice the stem for added texture if you like, but the florets are the star of the show in this soup.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Make the Soup Base:
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, and stir to combine. Cook the flour for 1-2 minutes to create a roux (this helps thicken the soup). Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the broth thickens slightly.
- Add the Broccoli:
- Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot, and stir. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant in color. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender at this point.
- Add Cream and Cheese:
- Stir in the half-and-half (or heavy cream) and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Add the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese (if using), stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of dried thyme and a dash of nutmeg for extra flavor, if desired. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Garnish (optional):
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or even a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of richness.
Why You’ll Love Broccoli Cheese Soup:
Comforting and Hearty: This soup is the definition of comfort food. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and the satisfying combination of broccoli and cheese, it’s a filling dish that warms you from the inside out.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is easy to make with ingredients that are simple to find in your pantry or fridge. You can make it from scratch in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a quick lunch.
Customizable: While the classic version uses cheddar cheese, you can easily customize the soup by adding different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even Swiss. You can also swap out the half-and-half for a lighter option like milk or a dairy-free version with coconut milk for a vegan twist (though this will change the flavor slightly).
Packed with Nutrients: Broccoli is rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this soup a nutrient-dense choice. While it’s still creamy and indulgent, you’re getting a good dose of vegetables, which makes it a bit healthier than other indulgent soups.
Kid-Friendly: If you have picky eaters in the house, this soup is a great way to sneak in some healthy vegetables. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a hit with kids, and you can blend it smooth for even younger ones who might not love broccoli chunks.
Tips for Success:
- Blending for Smoothness: If you prefer a completely smooth soup, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or blend the soup in batches in a regular blender. This is especially helpful if you have little ones who might not enjoy the texture of the broccoli pieces.
- Make Ahead: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it a great meal prep option. You can even freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, you might need to add a little extra broth or cream to return it to its desired consistency.
- Cheese Tips: For the best meltability, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the soup.
- Add More Veggies: You can easily add more vegetables to this soup, such as carrots, cauliflower, or even spinach. Just cook them along with the broccoli, and they’ll absorb the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 300-400 kcal
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 4-6g
- Net Carbs: 20-25g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Saturated Fat: 12-15g
- Cholesterol: 50-70mg
- Sodium: 700-800mg
- Calcium: 250-300mg
- Iron: 1-2mg
Broccoli Cheese Soup is an easy-to-make, deliciously creamy dish that’s sure to be a crowd favorite. Whether served on a chilly night or as part of a larger meal, it offers the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition. With its velvety texture and cheesy goodness, this soup is one of those recipes that feels indulgent but can still be a nourishing, well-rounded meal. Enjoy a warm bowl today!
