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Easy Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe

This easy Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup is creamy, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes—made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and simple pantry staples for the ultimate cozy bowl.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 People
Calories: 360
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp Unsalted butter
  • 1 small Yellow onion
  • 2 cloves Garlic cloves
  • 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
  • 4 cups Vegetable broth
  • 2 cups Whole milk
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
  • 3 cups Broccoli florets
  • 1½ cups Sharp cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
  • To taste Salt
  • To taste Black pepper
  • Pinch Paprika or cayenne

Method
 

  1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  2. Make a light roux (optional): Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and nutty. This step thickens your soup base.
  3. Add liquids and simmer: Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, milk, and cream (if using). Stir constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Add broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until tender but not mushy.
  5. Blend or keep chunky: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup partially or fully, depending on your texture preference. Or leave it rustic and chunky.
  6. Add cheese off-heat: Turn off the heat and slowly stir in cheddar and parmesan. Mix until completely melted and silky smooth.
  7. Taste & finish: Season with salt, pepper, and paprika/cayenne. Serve hot with crusty bread or a grilled cheese on the side.

Notes

  • Texture is Key: Think beyond just blending—let the broccoli tell two stories: one softened into the broth for richness, the other gently intact for bite and balance.
  • Heat with Intention: Sauté your base low and patient; onions and garlic unlock real depth only when they’re allowed to bloom, not brown.
  • Cheese is Temperature Sensitive: Melt it off-heat, and stir it in with care. Harsh heat will break its grace, but slow stirring brings that silky melt you crave.
  • Flavor Building Happens in Layers: From broth to cream to cheese, each step is a chance to enhance—not overpower. Let each ingredient breathe.
  • Elevate with Contrast: A final crack of black pepper, a swirl of cream, or a sprinkle of nutmeg before serving adds contrast, clarity, and character to the bowl.