If you’ve ever dreamed of a soup that’s both hearty and comforting, meeting your cravings with velvety smoothness and bursts of fresh veggie flavor, then you’re in for a treat with this Basic + Awesome Broccoli Cheese Soup. It’s the perfect blend of sharp cheddar richness and tender broccoli, wrapped in a creamy, dreamy broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re a soup newbie or a seasoned home cook, this recipe will quickly become one of your staple favorites, easy enough to whip up any night but impressive enough to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Basic + Awesome Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a starring role, bringing together natural sweetness, creaminess, and a touch of savory depth. You’ll find these essentials are straightforward but critical for creating that luscious texture and vibrant flavor you want in a bowl of broccoli cheese soup.

Butter (5 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and helps build the creamy roux base that gives the soup its velvety texture.
Small onion, minced: Provides a gentle sweetness and aromatic depth to the broth.
Garlic cloves, minced (3): Infuses the soup with a warm, savory bite that wakes up the other flavors.
Broccoli stems, chopped (1 cup, optional): Don’t toss these! They’re packed with flavor and help you use the whole vegetable.
All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Essential for making the roux that thickens the soup perfectly.
Whole milk (1 cup): Adds creaminess and smoothness without heaviness.
Half and half (1 cup): Boosts richness and creates that classic cheesy soup mouthfeel.
Chicken or vegetable broth (2 1/2 cups): The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
Broccoli florets (2-3 cups, chopped finely): The star of the show, providing color, texture, and fresh garden appeal.
Large carrot, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch for balance.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Brings out all the other flavors beautifully; adjust to taste.
Freshly ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat to keep things interesting.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): A hint of smokiness and warmth that gives the soup its soul.
Extra-sharp cheddar cheese (8-ounce block, grated): The melty, sharp flavor that makes this soup utterly irresistible.

How to Make Basic + Awesome Broccoli Cheese Soup

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Start by melting 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat in a large soup pot or Dutch oven. Toss in the minced onion, garlic, and chopped broccoli stems. Sauté gently for about 5 minutes until everything softens and fills your kitchen with a savory, inviting fragrance. This step builds a flavorful foundation that’s key to a soup bursting with depth.

Step 2: Build your roux

Next, add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter into the pot. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour. Stir continuously over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, letting that flour cook just right to avoid any raw taste and to achieve a golden base. Then, slowly drizzle in the milk and half and half while whisking non-stop. Don’t worry if it starts thick—it will gradually thin out as you add the broth, transforming into a luscious, creamy soup base. Simmer for about 10 minutes, whisking occasionally to keep it smooth and to reincorporate any bits that cling to the sides.

Step 3: Add broccoli and carrots

When your base is perfectly creamy and thickened, stir in the chopped broccoli florets, thinly sliced carrots, salt, pepper, and paprika. Let everything simmer gently for another 10 minutes or so, until the broccoli is bright green and tender to the fork. This keeps the veggies fresh and vibrant while infusing the soup with natural sweetness and color.

Step 4: Stir in the cheese

Remove the pot from heat and let the soup cool just a couple of minutes. Then fold in most of the grated sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly into the soup. The cheese gives this Basic + Awesome Broccoli Cheese Soup its signature creamy richness and that unforgettable cheesy bite you’ll crave again and again.

How to Serve Basic + Awesome Broccoli Cheese Soup

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra cheddar on top never fails to elevate the presentation, adding a visually enticing melty layer. Freshly chopped chives or a tiny dash of smoked paprika also add color and a fresh note. For a bit of crunch, a few toasted breadcrumbs or even crispy bacon bits work wonders.

Side Dishes

Serve this soup alongside a warm crusty bread or buttery garlic toast for dunking, helping you soak up every last drop of that delicious broth. A simple side salad with a bright vinaigrette cuts through the richness and balances the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your soup in hollowed-out bread bowls – it’s a charming way to impress guests and makes mealtime feel extra cozy. You can also add a swirl of sour cream or a drizzle of chili oil if you’re feeling adventurous and want to play up the flavor profile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Basic + Awesome Broccoli Cheese Soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool it to room temperature before covering it tightly. When refrigerated, the flavors actually deepen, making each bite even more satisfying.

Freezing

Because of the dairy content, freezing this soup is best done with a little care. Freeze it in airtight containers but be aware the texture might slightly change upon thawing. To revive it, gently reheat and whisk vigorously to bring back its creamy consistency.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy leftovers, warm your soup slowly over low heat, stirring often. This will keep the texture smooth and prevent the cheese from clumping. You can add a splash of broth or milk if it feels too thick.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While extra-sharp cheddar gives the soup its classic bite, you can experiment with gouda, gruyere, or even a mild mozzarella for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor intensity will vary.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply swap the chicken broth for a rich vegetable broth. This keeps the soup flavorful and suitable for vegetarians without compromising on taste.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

To go dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For cheese, vegan cheddar alternatives work well. The texture may be a bit different but still delicious.

Why should I chop the broccoli into very small pieces?

Small broccoli pieces cook faster and blend better into the soup, giving you that perfect balance between tender vegetable bits and creamy broth. It also enhances the soup’s overall texture and appearance.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Cauliflower, potatoes, and even peas can be great additions for more variety. Just adjust cooking time so everything finishes tender at the same time.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so wonderfully satisfying about a bowl of homemade Basic + Awesome Broccoli Cheese Soup. It’s cozy, cheesy, and packed with goodness, making it the perfect meal to lift your spirits any day of the week. Give this recipe a try and watch it become your go-to comfort food in no time—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Basic + Awesome Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 7 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Basic + Awesome Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Featuring tender broccoli florets and stems, thinly sliced carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup delivers a rich flavor balanced with fresh vegetables. Easy to make from scratch, it’s a warming bowl of goodness that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping.

Instructions

Sauté garlic and onion: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced onion, garlic, and chopped broccoli stems (if using). Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Build your roux: Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter to the pot. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and cook over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the flour is thickened and lightly toasted. Gradually whisk in the milk and half and half, continuing to whisk constantly. The mixture will initially be thick but will thin out to a creamy soup base.
Add broth and simmer: Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, combining thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, whisking occasionally to prevent skin formation and ensure a smooth texture.
Add broccoli and carrots: Stir in the chopped broccoli florets, sliced carrot, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes or until the broccoli turns bright green and becomes tender to the fork.
Add cheese and finish: Remove the pot from the heat and allow the soup to cool slightly for a few minutes. Stir in most of the grated cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a velvety, cheesy soup. Serve hot, garnished with remaining cheese and accompanied by crusty bread for dipping.

Notes

Using broccoli stems is optional but adds great flavor and reduces waste.
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if your broth is already salted.
Stir the soup frequently while cooking to prevent lumps and skin formation.
For a thicker soup, use slightly less broth; add more for a thinner consistency.
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: American