Creamy Dreamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Craving a Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup that rivals Panera's? This cheesy, comforting soup is easy to make at home! Get ready for a hug in a bowl. Get the recipe!

June 4, 2025
By Emily Torres.

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Right then, let's talk about broccoli cheddar soup , shall we? honestly, who doesn't love a good bowl of cheesy goodness, especially when the weather's a bit rubbish? this isn't just any soup, though.

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is like a warm hug on a cold day. i mean, seriously, is there anything more comforting?

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Dream

Ever wondered where this cheddar soup recipe came from? well, versions of it have been knocking about for ages, a proper home-style classic.

But you know panera bread? they've totally popularised it! this version, though, it's better . it's easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

We are talking about roughly 50 minutes start to finish. it serves about 6 people - perfect for a family meal or having some leftovers for lunch.

Creamy Dreamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Card

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Preparation time:20 Mins

Cooking time:30 Mins

Servings:6 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (approximately 1 cup / 150g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (approximately 2 teaspoons / 6g)
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 2 cups (475ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• 1 large head of broccoli (approximately 1.5 lbs / 680g), cut into small florets
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 4 cups (450g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (very important!)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Melt butter in a large pot. Add onion and sauté until softened and translucent. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
• Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This thickens the soup.
• Gradually whisk in vegetable broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Then, whisk in milk and heavy cream (if using).
• Add broccoli florets to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until broccoli is tender-crisp.
• Reduce heat to low. Gradually add grated cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth. Do not boil.
• Stir in nutmeg (if using) and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
• Ladle into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy your broccoli cheddar soup!

The Goodness Inside (Besides the Taste!)

This creamy broccoli soup isn't just delicious. it's actually got some goodness in it too. broccoli is a superfood. it is packed with vitamins.

It’s the perfect delicious soup recipes for a chilly evening when you want something comforting, or even as a starter for a fancy dinner party.

What makes it really special is the balance of that sharpness from the cheddar soup against the slightly earthy broccoli.

A match made in foodie heaven, that is.

Ready to dive into the ingredients? We'll need some broccoli (obviously!), cheddar cheese, and a few other bits and bobs. Trust me, it’s easier than fitting into your skinny jeans after Christmas.

Alright, let's talk broccoli cheddar soup ! honestly, who doesn't love a good bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup ? it's pure comfort food, right up there with mac and cheese.

My grandma used to make the best cheddar soup recipe , and i've been trying to perfect my own version ever since.

I swear, that woman could make anything taste like a warm hug! let's dive into what you'll need.

Ingredients You'll Need for Amazing Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Here's the lowdown on what you need for a truly epic bowl of Creamy Broccoli Soup . Forget the pre-made stuff, we're doing this proper!

Main Players

• Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . This is the base of your flavour!
• Yellow onion, finely chopped: 1 medium (about 1 cup/150g) . Gotta have that sweet oniony goodness.
• Garlic, minced: 2 cloves (about 2 teaspoons/6g) . Never skip the garlic.
• All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup (30g) . This helps thicken the soup, don't skimp!
• Vegetable broth (or chicken): 4 cups (950ml) . I usually use vegetable because that's what I have, but chicken broth does add a nice depth.
• Whole milk: 2 cups (475ml) . Makes it creamy!
• Heavy cream (optional): 1/2 cup (120ml) . Oh my gosh, if you want to be really indulgent, go for it.
• Broccoli, cut into florets: 1 large head (about 1.5 lbs/680g) . Fresh is always best! For the best flavour.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste) .
• Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste) .
• Sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated: 4 cups (450g) . This is SO important. Buy a block and grate it yourself! The pre-shredded stuff just doesn't melt as nicely.

Seasoning Notes: A Little Magic

• Nutmeg: Just a pinch ( 1/4 teaspoon , optional). Trust me on this. It adds a little something-something that makes all the difference.
• Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon . Brightens everything up at the end.
• Spice it up! Add red pepper flakes to taste.

Essential Equipment for your Broccoli Soup Recipes

Don't worry, you don't need fancy gadgets!

• Large pot or Dutch oven. Big enough to hold all the soup, obviously!
• Wooden spoon or spatula.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• Chef's knife and cutting board.
• Grater. For that all-important freshly grated cheese.

Getting Down to Brass Tacks

So, there you have it – all the bits and bobs you need to make this homemade soup recipe . remember, the key to a truly fantastic broccoli cheddar soup is using good quality ingredients, especially that cheese.

Trust me, it makes all the difference! ready to get cooking this delicious soup recipes ?

Okay, mate, let's talk creamy dreamy broccoli cheddar soup ! honestly, who doesn't love a good cheese soup recipe, especially when it's a broccoli cheddar soup that tastes like panera, but better? this homemade soup recipe is dead easy, i promise.

Forget fancy pants techniques; we're going full-on comfort food today.

Prep Like a Pro

First things first: mise en place , darlings. that's fancy french for "get your sht together before you start." roughly, that means get all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to roll.

Chop 1 medium yellow onion, mince 2 cloves of garlic, and cut 1 large head of broccoli into florets. grate 4 cups of sharp cheddar cheese.

Seriously, freshly grated cheese is key . the pre-shredded stuff doesn’t melt properly. this step will take you around 20 minutes , so get stuck in.

Trust me, this is essential for smooth sailing. i'm not kidding, either. if i skip this step, i end up burning garlic and crying over onions at the same time.

Not fun.

Step-by-Step to Cheddar Heaven

Ready to get cooking? The entire cook time is around 30 minutes. Here’s the lowdown:

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a big pot. Add the onion and cook until soft. Then add the garlic and cook until it smells amazing, about 1 minute .
2. Stir in ¼ cup of flour. Cook for 1- 2 minutes , stirring non-stop. This makes a roux, which is how we thicken the soup.
3. Slowly whisk in 4 cups of vegetable broth . Make sure you scrape the bottom of the pot to get all those tasty bits. Then, whisk in 2 cups of milk and ½ cup of heavy cream (if you want to be extra decadent).
4. Add the broccoli florets. Season with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper . Simmer gently until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
5. Turn the heat to low. Add the cheese slowly , stirring constantly until it's all melted and smooth. Don't boil it , or the cheese will get all weird and grainy.
6. Stir in ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice . Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. Time to dive in the Delicious Soup Recipes .

Pro Tips for a Perfect Bowl

• Freshly grated cheese is non-negotiable. I've tried the pre-shredded stuff. Never again.
• Don't let the cheese boil! Low heat is your friend here.
• Wanna kick it up a notch? Try roasting the broccoli before adding it to the soup. Roasting adds a nutty flavour.

Honestly, this creamy broccoli soup is one of my all-time favourites. it's so easy to make, and it always hits the spot.

Whether you're having a rainy day, or need a quick and easy weeknight dinner, broccoli cheddar soup is always a winner.

Enjoy this cheddar soup recipe and you might also dive into other broccoli soup recipes !

Alright, let's talk shop about this Creamy Dreamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup . Seriously, this stuff is liquid gold! But before you dive headfirst into a bowl, let's go over a few things.

Recipe Notes

Serving Suggestions - More Than Just a Bowl

Okay, so you've got a pot of this creamy broccoli cheddar soup bubbling away. What's next? Honestly, presentation can elevate any dish!

• Plating and presentation ideas: A simple swirl of cream and a sprinkle of extra cheddar? Chef's kiss! I love adding a few extra broccoli florets on top, too.
• Complementary sides or beverages: You know, this homemade soup recipe screams for a grilled cheese on the side. Or a crusty baguette for dunking. And a crisp apple cider? Oh my gosh, perfection!

Storage Tips - Make It Last!

So, you've made a giant batch of this amazing Cheddar Soup Recipe and you have some leftovers. No worries!

• Refrigeration guidelines: Let the soup cool completely, then pop it in an airtight container. It's good in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
• Freezing options (if applicable): Yep, you can freeze it! But be warned, the texture might change a bit. Thaw it out in the fridge overnight.
• Reheating instructions: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Don't let it boil! If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of milk.

Variations - Make It Your Own!

This delicious soup recipe is just a starting point. Get creative, innit?

• 1-2 dietary adaptations: Need a veggie version? Easy! Use vegetable broth and a plant-based cheddar alternative. It’s how you get a delicious Creamy Broccoli Soup
• Seasonal ingredient swaps: During autumn, try adding a roasted butternut squash puree for sweetness and color. I also like to swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or Colby cheese for a milder flavor.

Nutrition Basics - Goodness in a Bowl

Let's be real, this broccoli cheddar soup is comfort food, but it can still be good for you!

• Simplified nutrition information: Roughly speaking, you are looking at 450-500 calories per serving.
• Key health benefits: Broccoli is packed with vitamins! Plus, you're getting protein from the cheese. Not bad for a bowl of cheesy goodness.

This recipe is so simple that any level of chef can be proud to share his or her own version of broccoli soup recipes .

I really hope this cheddar soup makes you smile as much as it makes me! go on, give this cheese soup recipes a go! you won't regret it!