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A steaming bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup topped with shredded cheese and cracked pepper, served with crusty bread on a rustic wooden table.

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Classic

This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, velvety, and packed with flavor! Made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, garlic, and a touch of cream, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for chilly nights or cozy lunches. Ready in under 30 minutes, this soup is easy to make and even easier to love. Serve with warm bread or a side salad for a satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Lunch or dinner, Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Whisk
  • Ladle
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Blender or immersion blender (optional)

Ingredients
  

Base

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1½ cups half-and-half or heavy cream

Vegetables

  • 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded carrots (optional)

Cheese & Seasonings

  • 2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp dry mustard

Instructions
 

  • Sauté Aromatics Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft (3–4 minutes).
  • Make Roux Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a paste.
  • Add Liquids Slowly whisk in broth and cream until smooth and slightly thickened.
  • Add Veggies & Seasonings Stir in broccoli, carrots, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and mustard. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  • Blend (Optional) Use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup for desired texture.
  • Add Cheese Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar gradually until melted and smooth.

Notes

  • Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • For low-carb, skip flour and use cream cheese or xanthan gum.
  • Make it vegan with plant-based milk, vegan cheddar, and olive oil.
  • Add jalapeños or cayenne for a spicy kick.
  • Top with bacon, croutons, or extra cheese for a loaded version.
  • A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavor.
  • Store in fridge up to 4 days; freeze in portions (texture may change slightly).
  • Reheat gently—avoid boiling to maintain smoothness.
Keyword broccoli cheddar soup, Comfort Food, creamy soup, Panera-style soup, vegetarian soup