Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting soup made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and simple ingredients. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or a hearty lunch.
Hello, friend! Get ready to warm your soul with this delicious broccoli cheese soup recipe. Forget about bland and boring soups; this one is a cheesy, creamy delight that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a few simple ingredients, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
This soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. So, let’s get cooking and enjoy this bowl of cheesy goodness!
Utensils You Need:
Gather these tools to prepare your soup:
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
The Recipe
Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups chopped broccoli florets
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, or until fragrant.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add chopped broccoli florets. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
- While the broccoli is simmering, heat the milk in a separate saucepan over low heat. Do not boil.
- When the broccoli is tender, use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender to puree until smooth.
- Return the pureed soup to the pot and stir in the warm milk.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasonings, if necessary.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender. Be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending, and vent the blender lid to release steam.
- If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can mash some of the broccoli with a fork instead of pureeing all of it.
- For a richer soup, you can use heavy cream instead of milk.
Alternative Ingredients:
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below:
| Ingredient | Alternative |
| Cheddar cheese | Any melting cheese, such as Gruyère, fontina, or Monterey Jack |
| Vegetable broth | Chicken broth |
| Milk | Heavy cream or half-and-half |
What to Serve with Broccoli Cheese Soup:
You can pair this delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup with the following:
- Crusty bread for dipping.
- A side salad for a lighter meal.
- Grilled cheese sandwich for a classic comfort food combination.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop.
Can I freeze leftover broccoli cheese soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but the texture may change slightly when thawed. It’s best to freeze it without the milk, then add the milk and reheat when ready to serve.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables, such as carrots, cauliflower, or potatoes.
How do I make this soup spicy?
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the soup for a bit of heat.
