Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup

Featured in: Cozy Eats

This creamy broccoli and cheddar cheese soup combines tender broccoli florets with sharp shredded cheddar, melted smoothly into a rich base. Aromatics like onion and garlic are gently sautéed, then thickened with a roux made from butter and flour. Milk and vegetable broth create a velvety texture, while nutmeg adds a subtle warmth. The soup is blended to desired consistency and seasoned carefully for a balanced, comforting dish ideal for chilly evenings or easy lunches.

Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 09:51:00 GMT
Steaming bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup with melted cheddar, perfect for a cold evening. Save
Steaming bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup with melted cheddar, perfect for a cold evening. | munchhug.com

A creamy, comforting soup featuring tender broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese—perfect for cozy nights or a quick, satisfying meal.

I started making this broccoli cheese soup when the weather turns chilly, craving something warm and filling. My family always asks for extra cheese on top!

Ingredients

  • Frozen broccoli florets: 500 g (1 lb)
  • Medium onion: Finely chopped
  • Garlic cloves: Minced (2 cloves)
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: 200 g (2 cups), shredded
  • Unsalted butter: 60 g (1/4 cup)
  • Whole milk: 500 ml (2 cups)
  • Vegetable broth: 250 ml (1 cup)
  • All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
  • Salt: 1/2 tsp, or to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
  • Ground nutmeg (optional): 1/4 tsp

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics:
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Form the Roux:
Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes to form a roux.
Add Liquids:
Gradually whisk in the milk and vegetable broth until smooth.
Add Vegetables and Simmer:
Add the frozen broccoli, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 1012 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
Blend the Soup:
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency (chunky or smooth). Alternatively, blend in batches in a countertop blender, then return to the pot.
Add Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, mixing until melted and smooth.
Finish and Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Rich and creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup, a comforting vegetarian meal ready in minutes. Save
Rich and creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup, a comforting vegetarian meal ready in minutes. | munchhug.com

We always gather around the table with warm bowls of this soup and fresh bread on cold evenings. My kids love helping with the cheese grating!

Required Tools

Large soup pot, wooden spoon, immersion blender or countertop blender, measuring cups and spoons, cheese grater

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 330, Total Fat: 21 g, Carbohydrates: 18 g, Protein: 16 g

Notes

For a lighter soup, substitute half-and-half or low-fat milk. Add diced carrots or celery for extra flavor and texture. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Homemade Broccoli Cheese Soup, chunky and vibrant, garnished with fresh cracked pepper. Save
Homemade Broccoli Cheese Soup, chunky and vibrant, garnished with fresh cracked pepper. | munchhug.com

This broccoli cheese soup is easy and satisfying—perfect for weeknight dinners or leftovers the next day.

Recipe Guide

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli can be used. Adjust cooking time to ensure the florets become tender before blending.

What type of cheese works best for this soup?

Sharp cheddar cheese provides a flavorful, melty texture, balancing creaminess with a slight tang.

How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?

For thicker texture, reduce the liquid slightly or add more flour to the roux. For thinner soup, increase broth or milk quantity.

Is there a way to add more depth to the flavor?

Sautéing additional aromatics like celery or carrots before adding broth can enhance flavor complexity.

Can this soup be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge for a few days. Reheat gently to preserve creamy texture and flavor.

Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup

Comforting, creamy blend of tender broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese for quick meals.

Prep duration
10 min
Heat time
25 min
Complete duration
35 min
Created by Samantha Reed

Type Cozy Eats

Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition preferences Meat-free

Components

Vegetables

01 1 lb frozen broccoli florets
02 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 2 garlic cloves, minced

Dairy

01 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
02 1/4 cup unsalted butter
03 2 cups whole milk
04 1 cup vegetable broth

Pantry

01 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
02 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
03 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
04 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

Method

Phase 01

Sauté Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Phase 02

Prepare Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes to form a smooth roux.

Phase 03

Incorporate Liquids: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and vegetable broth until fully combined and smooth.

Phase 04

Simmer Broccoli: Add frozen broccoli florets, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until broccoli is tender.

Phase 05

Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender to purée the soup to preferred consistency. Alternatively, carefully blend in batches using a countertop blender and return to the pot.

Phase 06

Melt Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted and smooth.

Phase 07

Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra cheese or a sprinkle of black pepper.

Tools needed

  • Large soup pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Immersion blender or countertop blender
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cheese grater

Allergy alerts

Review ingredients carefully for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if concerned.
  • Contains dairy (butter, milk, cheddar cheese) and gluten (all-purpose flour).
  • Verify packaged ingredients for other potential allergens.

Dietary info (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - please consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 330
  • Lipids: 21 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Proteins: 16 g