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There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup, especially when it’s made from scratch with fresh ingredients. This hearty, velvety soup is the perfect combination of tender broccoli, sweet carrots, and a smooth, cheesy broth that’s both indulgent and satisfying. The richness of cheddar cheese and the creaminess of half-and-half make this soup feel luxurious, while the hint of paprika, garlic powder, and dry mustard give it a depth of flavor that keeps you coming back for more. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something comforting yet hearty.

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time. Whether you serve it as a starter or as a main course, it’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s thick, creamy, and just the right balance of flavors, offering a warm, soul-soothing experience with every spoonful. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a dish that’s both comforting and delicious, perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy

This soup is packed with a deliciously creamy texture, made possible by the half-and-half and generous amounts of cheddar cheese. The creamy base is balanced perfectly with the freshness of broccoli and sweetness of carrots.

2. Easy to Make

With a simple ingredient list and only a few straightforward steps, this soup is easy to prepare. It’s the ideal choice for a comforting weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dish.

3. Perfectly Seasoned

The combination of paprika, garlic powder, dry mustard, and black pepper adds just the right amount of spice and depth, enhancing the natural flavors of the vegetables and cheese without overwhelming them.

4. Full of Flavor

Broccoli and carrots are complemented by a savory cheese sauce, making every bite a burst of flavor. The use of chicken broth adds richness, while the cheddar cheese brings the ultimate indulgence.

5. Kid-Friendly

This soup is a hit with kids, as it’s cheesy and creamy, with a subtle vegetable taste that’s mild enough for little ones. It’s an excellent way to get your kids to enjoy more veggies in a fun and delicious way.

Ingredients

Butter
Yellow onion (finely chopped)
Salted butter
All-purpose flour
Chicken broth
Half-and-half
Fresh broccoli (roughly chopped)
Carrots (peeled and chopped)
Kosher salt
Paprika
Garlic powder
Dry mustard (or regular mustard)
Black pepper
Cheddar cheese (shredded)

Variations

Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk (like oat milk or almond milk). Replace the cheddar with vegan cheese for a completely dairy-free soup.
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup.
Extra Cheesy: If you love your soup extra cheesy, feel free to add more cheddar cheese to the mixture for a richer flavor.
Spicy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped jalapeño to give the soup a little extra heat.
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage to the soup to make it more filling and flavorful.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, melt the 1 Tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the carrots and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In the same pot, melt the 1/4 cup salted butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, constantly stirring, to form a roux (a thickening mixture).

Step 3: Add Broth and Half-and-Half

Slowly add the chicken broth and half-and-half, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Seasoning

Add the chopped broccoli to the pot, along with kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, dry mustard, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 10-12 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Lower the heat and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the soup is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

Step 6: Serve

Once the soup is fully combined and creamy, remove it from the heat. Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Be sure to cook the broccoli and carrots until just tender to retain their texture and color. Overcooking can make them mushy.
Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best for this recipe, but you can use frozen if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.
Grate Your Own Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a smoother, creamier soup compared to pre-shredded cheese.
Thicken the Soup: If you like your soup thicker, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water or blend a portion of the soup to create a smoother texture.
Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth or milk to reach your preferred consistency.

How to Serve

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a warm dinner roll. You can also serve it with a light salad for a complete meal. For extra indulgence, top the soup with a little extra shredded cheddar or crumbled bacon. It’s a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The soup will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little extra broth or milk when reheating.

Freezing

This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, add a little more liquid if necessary and heat over low heat on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, gently heat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe container. If the soup has thickened too much, add a bit of milk or broth to return it to the desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can easily be substituted to make this soup vegetarian.

2. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the half-and-half with a dairy-free alternative, like coconut milk or almond milk, and use dairy-free cheese.

3. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.

4. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup.

5. How do I make the soup spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to give the soup an extra kick.

6. Can I add meat to the soup?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage for added flavor and protein.

7. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, fresh cheese will melt smoother and help create a creamier texture.

8. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before freezing, and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

9. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Add the cheese slowly and stir continuously over low heat to ensure it melts evenly.

10. How can I make this soup thinner?

If the soup is too thick, simply add more chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Conclusion

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a perfect combination of rich flavors and satisfying texture, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe delivers all the flavors you crave without any fuss. It’s simple to make, packed with nutritious vegetables, and indulgent enough to satisfy any cheesy cravings. Serve it up with some crusty bread or a salad, and you have a delicious and well-rounded meal. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy spoonful!