Cheddar Broccoli Soup: The Creamiest, Easiest Recipe EVER!

Cheddar Broccoli Soup. Ah, the creamy, cheesy goodness that warms the soul on a chilly day! Here at Nonna’s Dishes, we adore a good, comforting soup and this cheddar broccoli soup is a family favorite. This recipe is inspired by those simple, delicious flavors from our childhood, but with a Nonna twist of course! We’re going to show you how to make the best Cheddar Broccoli Soup you’ve ever tasted right in your own kitchen, quicker than you think.

Why You Will Love This Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe

This creamy dream of a soup is pure comfort in a bowl! From the tender broccoli florets to the rich, melty cheddar, every spoonful is a hug. We love how quick and easy this cheddar broccoli soup recipe is to whip up on a busy weeknight. Forget those complicated recipes, this is an easy soup dinner that even the kids will devour!

Remember those Sunday dinners at Nonna’s house? Well, this cheddar broccoli soup recipe takes us right back. It’s the perfect balance of hearty and flavorful, reminiscent of a Panera broccoli cheddar soup copycat but, dare we say, even better! We especially love pairing a warm bowl of soup with “Deconstructed Golumpki Soup” (https://nonnasdishes.com/deconstructed-golumpki-soup/) on those days that you feel like you need a double dose of comfort.

And the best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your fridge! Ready to get started?

Ingredients Needed for This Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy bowl of joy:

• Broccoli: 1 large head, cut into florets (about 4 cups)
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Butter: 4 tablespoons
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups
• Milk: 1 cup (whole milk or half and half for extra creaminess)
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Optional Toppings: Croutons, extra shredded cheddar cheese, a swirl of cream

How to Make This Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe

Get ready for a simple cooking process that yields a seriously satisfying bowl of soup!

1. 1. Sauté the Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. 2. Make a Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
3. 3. Add the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth, making sure no clumps of flour remain. Then, stir in the milk and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. 4. Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Don’t overcook the broccoli, you want it to be slightly tender but not mushy.
5. 5. Melt the Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Be sure to stir gently to avoid any cheese clumping.
6. 6. Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add more cheese if you’d like. If you want a silky smooth texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup (but we like it with some texture). Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

How to Serve This Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe

This creamy broccoli soup is divine all on its own, or elevated with a few tasty extras.

Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese and some crunchy croutons. A swirl of heavy cream adds a touch of elegance. This creamy broccoli soup pairs perfectly with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. You can’t go wrong with a grilled cheese sandwich on the side, too!. For a lighter meal, serve alongside a simple salad such as “Healing Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup” (https://nonnasdishes.com/healing-ginger-garlic-chicken-noodle-soup/).

Follow us on Pinterest for more delicious soup recipes and cooking inspiration!

How to Store This Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This creamy delight keeps well.

Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Freezing: While freezing is possible, it can change the texture of the soup a bit. The cheese may separate slightly upon thawing. To freeze, cool completely, then store in freezer safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to thin it out.

Tips to Make This Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe

Want the BEST cheddar broccoli soup? These tips are your secret weapon!

• Broccoli Prep: Make sure you cut the broccoli florets into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Cheese Matters: Use a good quality sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Pre shredded cheese often contains cellulose which can affect melting and texture.
• Don’t Boil After Adding Cheese: High heat can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy. Add the cheese off the heat and stir gently until melted.
• For a healthy twist, try adding in spinach or kale at the end of cooking, just like we do with our “Frozen Pea Soup” (https://nonnasdishes.com/frozen-pea-soup/).

Helpful Notes for This Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe

A few extra details to ensure soup success!

• Broth Options: While chicken broth is our go to, vegetable broth works great for a vegetarian version.
• Cream: We use heavy cream for richness, but half and half works too for a lighter soup
• Cheese Alternatives: While cheddar is classic, Monterey Jack or Colby Jack add a beautiful taste.
• Immersion Blender: If you like a perfectly smooth soup, an immersion blender is your best friend, but remember a slightly chunky texture is a great way to make our version unique.

Variation of This Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe

Customize your cheddar broccoli soup with these fun twists!

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
• Creamy Tomato: Swirl in a spoonful of tomato paste while sautéing aromatics for a deeper more complex taste.
• Roasted Broccoli: Roast the broccoli before adding it to the soup for a richer, nuttier flavor. Toss the broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes before adding it to the soup.

Conclusion

There you have it, Nonna’s version of a comforting classic: Cheddar Broccoli Soup! We hope this easy soup recipe brings a little warmth and deliciousness into your day. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below! Buon appetito!

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