Cozy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe to Warm Your Soul

Creamy broccoli cheese soup warms souls on chilly afternoons like a cozy hug from grandma’s kitchen.

Comfort comes easily with this hearty blend of vibrant green vegetables and rich, melted cheese.

Nutritious ingredients promise a delightful meal that satisfies deep hunger pangs.

Smooth textures mingle with sharp cheddar notes, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.

Quick preparation means you can whip up this crowd-pleasing dish in under thirty minutes.

Our simple approach ensures even novice cooks can master this classic recipe with confidence.

Each spoonful delivers pure, wholesome goodness that will make everyone at the table smile and ask for seconds.

Tips To Make Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe Creamier

• Soften Aromatics Gently: Sauté onions and garlic slowly to release their sweet, mellow flavors without burning, which helps create a rich flavor base for the soup.
• Create Smooth Roux Technique: Stir flour continuously while cooking to prevent clumping and develop a golden color, ensuring a thick and creamy soup consistency without lumps.
• Partial Blending Trick: Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, maintaining some broccoli chunks for delightful texture while creating a creamy overall experience.
• Cheese Melting Magic: Add cheese off direct heat and stir gently to prevent separation, allowing it to melt smoothly and create a luxurious, velvety soup texture.
• Low-Carb Adaptation Option: Replace flour with cauliflower rice or use xanthan gum as a thickener to make the soup keto-friendly and lower in carbohydrates.

Storage Guide For Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

• Refrigerate leftover broccoli cheese soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Cool the soup completely before storing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Keep the container sealed and place in the coldest part of your refrigerator.
• Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent cheese separation.
• Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause the soup to become grainy or split.
• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for maximum 2 months – leave a small space at the top for expansion.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pro tip: If the soup seems too thick after reheating, whisk in a little warm chicken broth or milk to restore the creamy consistency.
• Never reheat the soup more than once, as this can compromise both flavor and food safety.

Pairing Ideas For Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

• Pair with Crusty Bread: Grab a warm, freshly baked sourdough or rustic French baguette to dip into the creamy soup. The crispy crust and soft interior perfectly complement the rich, cheesy broccoli base.
• Serve with Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the soup's richness. These light, zesty wines provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy, cheesy texture.
• Add Crunchy Side Salad: Toss together a light mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The bright, acidic dressing and crisp vegetables balance the soup's heaviness and add a fresh dimension to the meal.
• Match with Roasted Chicken: Prepare a simple roasted chicken breast seasoned with herbs. The lean protein and subtle flavors create a delightful accompaniment to the hearty, cheese-filled soup.

Ways To Change Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

• Southwestern Spice Splash: Replace smoked paprika with chipotle powder, add diced green chiles, and top with crispy tortilla strips for a zesty Mexican-inspired version.
• Rustic Vegetable Harvest: Incorporate diced zucchini, roasted red peppers, and swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a heartier vegetarian option.
• Alpine Herb Comfort: Mix in fresh thyme and rosemary, use Gruyère cheese instead of cheddar, and garnish with toasted pine nuts for a sophisticated European-style soup.
• Lean Green Protein Boost: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or diced ham, add extra steamed broccoli florets, and sprinkle with Greek yogurt for a protein-packed meal.

FAQ About Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

• What makes this broccoli cheese soup different from others?

This recipe uses a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese for a richer, more complex flavor. The addition of smoked paprika and nutmeg gives an unexpected depth that elevates the classic soup beyond a typical recipe.

• Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The recipe will maintain its creamy texture and delicious flavor profile without any meat-based ingredients.

• Is blending part of the soup really necessary?

Partially blending creates a perfect balance between smooth, creamy texture and chunky vegetable pieces. It helps thicken the soup while keeping some broccoli and carrot chunks for a more interesting eating experience.

• How can I make this soup healthier?

You can use low-fat cheese, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, and add more vegetables like cauliflower or spinach to increase nutritional value without compromising the soup’s delicious taste.

Why Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe Feels Like A Hug

• Quick Comfort Meal: Whip up this creamy broccoli cheese soup in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a warm, satisfying dinner.
• Minimal Cooking Skills Required: Even novice cooks can master this recipe with simple sautéing and whisking techniques that build confidence in the kitchen.
• Nutrient-Packed Deliciousness: Packed with vegetables and protein-rich cheese, this soup delivers a nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on incredible flavor.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Easily adaptable for different tastes by adding toppings like crispy bacon, extra cheese, or crunchy croutons to make each bowl unique.

Everything Needed For Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

• Broccoli: Fresh, green vegetable that provides hearty texture and nutritional boost.
• Carrots: Adds subtle sweetness and extra nutrients to the soup.
• Onion: Classic aromatic that builds foundational flavor.
• Garlic: Provides deep, robust flavor profile.

• Butter: Helps create rich base and smooth cooking foundation.
• Heavy Cream: Creates luxurious, velvety soup texture.
• Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Delivers sharp, complex cheese flavor and creamy consistency.

• Chicken Broth: Provides depth and liquid base for soup.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasoning for balanced taste.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds subtle smoky undertone.
• Nutmeg: Introduces warm, subtle spice complement.

• Bacon: Offers crispy, salty topping for extra flavor.
• Croutons: Provides crunchy texture contrast.

How To Prepare Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sizzle The Aromatics

Grab a large pot and melt butter over medium warmth. Toss in chopped onions and dance them around until they turn soft and translucent. Sprinkle minced garlic and let it sizzle for a quick moment, releasing its delightful fragrance.

Step 2: Create The Silky Base

Dust flour over the softened onions and stir constantly. Watch the mixture transform into a golden, magical foundation. Gently pour chicken broth, whisking smoothly to banish any pesky lumps.

Step 3: Build Delicious Layers

• Fresh broccoli florets
• Sliced carrots
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Smoked paprika
• Pinch of nutmeg

Lower the heat and let everything mingle and soften for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Blend And Enrich

Use an immersion blender to partially transform the soup, keeping some hearty chunks for texture. Sprinkle in sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan cheeses, stirring until they melt into pure creaminess.

Step 5: Serve With Flair

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls. Top with extra cheese shreds, crispy bacon bits, or crunchy croutons for an extra flavor explosion.

Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

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4.6 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comforting “broccoli cheese soup” brings creamy warmth to winter tables with classic cheesy goodness. Rich Wisconsin cheddar and tender broccoli florets blend perfectly, promising hearty satisfaction in each spoonful you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Vegetables:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 large carrot, grated

Dairy and Cheese:

• 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter

Soup Base and Seasonings:

• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Garnish:

• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Crumbled bacon
• Croutons

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Instructions

1. Initiate the flavor foundation by gently melting butter in a spacious pot over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer and become translucent.
2. Introduce finely chopped onions to the butter, sautéing them until they transform into a soft, translucent medley, releasing their subtle sweetness.
3. Incorporate minced garlic and swiftly stir, creating an aromatic base that will infuse the entire soup with rich, robust essence.
4. Dust the vegetable mixture with a delicate layer of flour, continuously stirring to create a golden, nutty roux that will thicken the soup’s luxurious texture.
5. Gradually stream chicken broth into the pot, whisking methodically to eliminate any potential flour clusters and create a smooth, velvety liquid.
6. Pour in heavy cream, allowing the mixture to reach a gentle, bubbling simmer that promises rich, creamy potential.
7. Introduce vibrant broccoli florets, sliced carrots, and a harmonious blend of seasonings – salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and a whisper of nutmeg.
8. Reduce the heat and let the soup gently simmer, transforming the vegetables into tender morsels while melding the intricate flavor profile.
9. Employ an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, creating a balanced texture with some intact vegetable pieces and a creamy overall consistency.
10. Sprinkle in sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan cheeses, stirring until they melt seamlessly into the soup, creating a luxurious, golden embrace.
11. Ladle the soup into waiting bowls, garnishing with optional crispy bacon bits, additional cheese, or crunchy croutons for a delightful finishing touch.

Notes

• Boost the flavor by using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
• Create a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same creamy consistency.
• Enhance nutritional value by adding roasted cauliflower or extra vegetables like diced celery for more depth and nutrients.
• Transform the soup into a lighter option by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing the cheese quantity while maintaining a rich, satisfying taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 495
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 930 mg
• Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 23 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg