I Need a Recipe

Easy • Soups

Cozy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

A rich, creamy, and comforting soup packed with tender broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese.

Prep
10 min
Cook
25 min
Servings
4
Level
Easy
Cozy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

When you need a warm hug in a bowl, this Cozy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is here for you! It's unbelievably rich, irresistibly creamy, and absolutely loaded with tender broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese. This homemade version is so much better than any restaurant's, and it's surprisingly easy to whip up. Perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch!

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
  • 1 large carrot, grated
  • 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, but adds depth)
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.

  2. Step 2

    Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This creates your roux.

  3. Step 3

    Gradually whisk in the chicken (or vegetable) broth and milk, ensuring no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

  4. Step 4

    Add the raw broccoli florets, grated carrot, dry mustard powder, and nutmeg (if using). Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

  5. Step 5

    Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until completely melted and smooth. Do not let the soup boil once the cheese is added, as it can make the soup grainy.

  6. Step 6

    Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, leaving some texture.

  7. Step 7

    Serve hot, perhaps with some crusty bread or extra shredded cheddar on top.

Tips

  • Use freshly grated cheddar for the best melt and flavor; pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
  • If you prefer a completely smooth soup, blend it until creamy with an immersion blender or by carefully transferring to a regular blender (blend in batches and vent the lid).
  • For extra veggies, add a handful of chopped celery along with the onion.

More recipes you'll love