Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

This Broccoli Cheese Soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with rich flavor. Made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a velvety smooth base, this soup is perfect for a cozy meal. Whether served in a bread bowl or with a side of crusty bread, it’s a comforting classic that’s easy to make at home.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy & Cheesy – Loaded with melty cheddar cheese.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Healthy & Hearty – Made with fresh broccoli for a nutritious boost.
• Better Than Panera – Homemade flavors with no processed ingredients.
• Great for Meal Prep – Stores and reheats well for easy leftovers.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Soup:

• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 cups heavy cream (or half & half)
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped small)
• 1 large carrot (shredded)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp paprika (optional)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

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Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft.
• Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

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2. Make the Roux

• Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
• Slowly whisk in chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

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3. Add Broccoli & Carrots

• Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Add broccoli, carrots, salt, pepper, and paprika.
• Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes until broccoli is tender.

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4. Blend for Creaminess (Optional)

• For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup.
• For a chunky texture, leave the broccoli whole.

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5. Add the Cheese

• Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
• Stir until fully melted and smooth (do not boil, or the cheese may become grainy).

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6. Serve & Enjoy

• Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheese or croutons.
• Serve with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for a restaurant-style meal.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Variations

• Bacon Broccoli Cheese Soup – Stir in crispy bacon crumbles for extra richness.
• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
• Extra Creamy – Blend the soup fully for a velvety smooth texture.
• Dairy-Free – Use coconut milk and dairy-free cheese.
• Low-Carb/Keto – Replace flour with xanthan gum and use cream instead of milk.

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Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating:
  • Stovetop – Heat over low, stirring frequently to prevent separation.
  • Microwave – Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as dairy-based soups can become grainy.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Just add frozen broccoli directly and extend the simmer time by 2-3 minutes.

What’s the best cheese for broccoli cheese soup?

Sharp cheddar melts best, but a mix of cheddar and Parmesan adds depth.

How do I prevent my soup from becoming grainy?

Avoid boiling after adding cheese—melt it on low heat for a smooth texture.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in cheese at the end.

How do I thicken my soup?

Add a slurry of cornstarch and water or simmer longer to reduce liquid.

Can I add meat to this soup?

Yes! Shredded chicken or ham pairs well with the flavors.

What’s the best way to serve broccoli cheese soup?

In a bread bowl, with garlic bread, or topped with crispy croutons.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute gluten-free flour or use a cornstarch slurry instead of flour.

Is this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheese Soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors. Whether you enjoy it chunky or smooth, it’s a delicious, homemade alternative to restaurant-style soups. Serve with warm bread and enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal!

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