There are few things more comforting than a warm, velvety bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup. This rich, creamy soup combines tender, perfectly-cooked broccoli with a melty blend of cheeses, creating the ultimate cozy meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether it’s a chilly day or you’re just craving some comforting, cheesy goodness, this soup is the answer.
Broccoli Cheese Soup is a timeless favorite that brings the best of both worlds: the earthy freshness of broccoli and the indulgent creaminess of melted cheese. It’s perfect as a light lunch, hearty dinner, or even as an appetizer for a dinner party.
The Origins of Broccoli Cheese Soup
Broccoli Cheese Soup has become a staple in many homes, but its rise to fame was largely attributed to American chain restaurants in the late 20th century. Most notably, Panera Bread helped popularize the soup in the 1990s, serving it in their iconic bread bowls. Since then, it has cemented itself as a comforting, nostalgic meal in households across the country.
Despite its more recent mainstream popularity, the combination of broccoli and cheese has been enjoyed in various forms for centuries. The creamy, cheesy variations we see today are simply an evolution of much older recipes for cheesy vegetable soups.
Why You’ll Love Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Rich, creamy texture — It’s the kind of soup that coats your spoon and fills your bowl with warmth and comfort.
- Hearty yet light — It’s filling enough for a meal but light enough not to weigh you down.
- Endless flavor combinations — You can adjust the cheese blend, use different broths, or even add extra veggies or seasonings to make it your own.
- Simple ingredients — With just a few key ingredients, this soup is both easy to make and budget-friendly.
- Perfect for leftovers — The flavors deepen the next day, making it even better.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup
To make a truly satisfying bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Soup Base:
- Fresh broccoli: Tender florets create the heart of this soup, and you can use the stalks for extra flavor if chopped finely.
- Butter: Provides a rich, flavorful base for sautéing the vegetables.
- Onion: Adds aromatic depth and sweetness to the soup.
- Carrot: A small amount of grated carrot adds sweetness and color to balance out the richness of the cheese.
- Garlic: Enhances the flavor profile with a subtle depth.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Acts as the liquid base to bring the soup together and provide flavor.
- Flour: Used to create a roux (thickening agent) that helps the soup reach the desired creamy consistency.
For the Creaminess:
- Milk or heavy cream: This adds the luxurious texture and creaminess to the soup.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the soup. Sharp cheddar is typically preferred, but you can experiment with other types of cheese for different flavor profiles (Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a bit of Parmesan).
- Salt and pepper: Seasoning to taste, adjusting for balance.
Optional Add-ins and Variations:
- Bacon bits: A sprinkle of crispy bacon adds a savory crunch and deepens the flavor.
- Other veggies: Leeks, cauliflower, or potatoes can be added to mix up the texture.
- Spices: A dash of paprika, cayenne, or nutmeg can add warmth and complexity.
- Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons for a satisfying crunch.
- Sour cream or cream cheese: For extra creaminess and tang.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Broccoli Cheese Soup
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into small florets. You can use the stems too—just peel off the tough outer layer and chop them finely. Grate your carrot and set both the carrot and broccoli aside.
2. Make the Roux
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the onion and sauté until softened, about 3–5 minutes. Add the garlic and grated carrot, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Next, sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. This will thicken the soup as it cooks. Let it cook for about 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add the Liquid
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to thicken slightly—this should take about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Broccoli
Add the chopped broccoli to the pot, stirring to combine. Pour in the milk or heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
5. Blend (Optional)
For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, leaving some chunks of broccoli for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer a portion of the soup to a regular blender and pulse until smooth.
6. Add the Cheese
Lower the heat to medium-low and begin adding the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, stirring constantly to ensure it melts smoothly into the soup. Continue until all the cheese is incorporated, and the soup is velvety and smooth.
7. Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. For an extra flavor boost, you can add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese, croutons, or crispy bacon bits.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor. It melts well and provides a robust, tangy taste that pairs perfectly with the broccoli.
- If you want an extra creamy soup, opt for heavy cream instead of milk.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli — it should be tender but still vibrant in color.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. If you prefer a chunky soup, skip this step and leave the broccoli whole.
- To prevent the cheese from clumping, make sure the heat is on low when adding the cheese and stir constantly.
- Make a large batch and store leftovers! This soup stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days and tastes even better the next day.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Cheese Soup is a meal in itself but pairs beautifully with:
- Freshly baked bread: A crusty baguette or soft dinner rolls to dip into the creamy soup.
- Grilled cheese sandwich: The ultimate classic combo. A crispy, buttery grilled cheese on the side is a match made in heaven.
- Side salad: A fresh, tangy salad with a lemon vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the soup.
Variations to Try
- Vegan Broccoli Cheese Soup: Substitute the dairy products with plant-based milk (like oat or almond milk) and vegan cheese.
- Spicy Broccoli Cheese Soup: Add jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Loaded Broccoli Cheese Soup: Add bacon, green onions, or even crispy shallots on top for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Broccoli Cheese Soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. With its creamy, cheesy base and tender chunks of broccoli, it’s the kind of soup that soothes the soul and satisfies the belly. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner, a family gathering, or meal prep for the week, it’s sure to be a hit. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion — this soup is an absolute classic.
So grab your ingredients and a cozy bowl, and treat yourself to a comforting, heartwarming meal of Broccoli Cheese Soup.