Broccoli Cheese Soup

Few things are better than a comforting bowl of broccoli cheese soup any time you crave something warm and satisfying. This creamy, flavorful soup combines the nutritious goodness of broccoli with the rich, savory taste of sharp cheddar cheese.

Broccoli cheddar cheese soup has been a staple in American kitchens for a long time, with roots dating back to the early 20th century. The combination of creamy broth, tender broccoli and melted cheese makes a hearty soup that’s more substantial than most.

Broccoli cheese soup isn’t just a tasty treat but is packed with nutrients. Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins C and K1, folate, potassium, manganese and iron. It’s also high in bioactive compounds, including the antioxidant sulforaphane.

What to serve with broccoli cheese soup

Broccoli cheese soup is hearty enough to be a main dish for dinner or lunch, especially when adding substantial toppings and a side or two. Here are some suggestions for accompanying sides, entrees and beverages.

Serve your soup alongside a grilled cheese sandwich, baked potato, or baked chicken for a filling and satisfying meal.

Another option for a well-rounded meal is to complement the soup with a fresh Cobb salad, crusty bread, or a crunchy side like crudités.

A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup. For a cozier experience in cooler weather, consider serving it with hot cider or a bold red wine.

For dessert, I like the warm flavors of baked apples with cheesy soups. You might consider my baked apple slices, apple pizza or Mom’s best apple pie recipe.

On its own, broccoli cheese soup can be a comforting snack, too. Garnish with croutons, extra cheese, or a sprinkle of herbs to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

1. Dutch oven or large stock pot
2. Immersion Blender  or Vitamix blender, optional

Broccoli cheese soup ingredients

Below are the ingredients to gather for this recipe, plus a bit about how each contributes to the soup’s rich flavor.

• Butter: Provides a rich, creamy soup base, enhancing its overall flavor and texture.
• Yellow Onion: Adds depth and a slight sweetness when softened and cooked with the butter.
• Garlic: Contributes a savory, aromatic note that pairs well with the broccoli and cheese.
• Flour: Acts as a thickener for the soup, helping to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Milk: Adds richness and creaminess to the soup, balancing out the sharpness of the cheese.
• Chicken or Veggie Broth: Enhances the soup’s overall flavor and helps cook the broccoli and carrot to tender perfection.
• Broccoli: Serves as the main ingredient, providing texture, flavor and essential nutrients.
• Carrot: Add natural sweetness, a vibrant color and extra nutrition to the soup.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Enhance the flavors and add balance to the dish.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy, zesty note to complement the savory and creamy components.
• Ground Nutmeg: Offers a subtle hint of spice and enhances the flavors in the soup.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides a bold, tangy flavor and a creamy, melty texture that makes the soup extra satisfying.
• Croutons and Extra Cheese (Optional): Add crunch, texture and extra flavor when sprinkled on the soup.

Frequently asked questions about broccoli cheese soup

Below are common questions about making this yummy soup. If you have a question I haven’t covered, ask in the comments section. I will reply as soon as I can!

Can I make broccoli cheese soup in advance?

Prepare the soup up to two days ahead, store it in an airtight container and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, gently reheat the soup in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

What if I don’t have fresh broccoli on hand?

Frozen broccoli can be used as a substitute for fresh broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli before adding it.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of shredding it myself?

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it may not melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese due to the anti-caking agents it contains. For the creamiest results, we recommend shredding cheese at home.

Can I make a gluten-free version of this broccoli cheese soup recipe?

To accommodate gluten-free diets, you’ll need to replace the flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. This simple swap ensures that everyone can enjoy the deliciousness of your broccoli cheese soup.

Can I make this broccoli cheese soup vegetarian?

Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

How can I make a vegan version of broccoli cheese soup?

Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like olive oil or vegan butter, and swap the milk for a non-dairy option such as almond, oat or soy milk. For the cheesy flavor, use a vegan cheese alternative or create a “cheese” sauce using a blend of nutritional yeast, non-dairy milk and spices.

How do I prevent the soup from becoming grainy?

Avoid adding the cheese too quickly or all at once. Instead, slowly incorporate the cheese in small amounts while stirring continuously, which will help create a smooth, creamy texture.

How do I adjust the consistency of the soup?

If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, mix a small amount of flour or cornstarch with cold water, then add this mixture to the simmering soup, stirring continuously until it thickens.

How can I store and reheat leftover soup?

Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Add twists for your own cheese and broccoli soup recipes

Beyond my recipe below, here are some ideas to elevate your soup-making game with different ingredients, substitutions and flavors you prefer to make your soup unique.

Consider these creative twists and flavor boosts:

• A touch of smoke: For a hint of smokiness, use smoked cheddar cheese instead of regular sharp cheddar. You can also try incorporating a small amount of smoked paprika.
• Boost the veggie factor: Incorporate more veggies into your broccoli cheddar soup by adding finely chopped spinach, cauliflower, or zucchini. Not only will this increase the nutritional value of your dish, but it will also add extra color and texture.
• Make it spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your soup. You can also drizzle some hot sauce or sriracha on top before serving for a fiery kick.
• Upgrade your toppings: While I suggest croutons and extra cheddar as basic toppings, some other ideas include crispy fried onions, crushed potato chips, crumbled bacon, fresh herbs or a dollop of pesto. These toppings not only enhance the presentation but add flavor and texture.

More Grandma-approved recipes to try

If you enjoyed this recipe for broccoli cheese soup, take a look at some of these other yummy recipes:

• Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
• Creamy Cheesy Potato Soup
• Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
• Brunswick Stew Recipe
• Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Do you plan on making this broccoli cheese soup? If so, let me know what you think! I’d love to hear what you think in the comments below.