Broccoli Cheese Soup

Name: Broccoli Cheese Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons butter; 1/2 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 cups low sodium vegetable broth; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese; 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped

By:

Thomas

Published:

January 15, 2026

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Broccoli Cheese Soup is one of those recipes that brings everyone together in the kitchen. It combines fresh ingredients and hearty flavors, making it the perfect comfort food. When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness. Simple to prepare, it’s a quick meal that fits perfectly into busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Plus, the bright green of the broccoli mixed with the rich colors of cheddar and Gruyère creates a feast for the eyes, as well as the palate.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this soup warms the heart and satisfies the hunger. Imagine sitting down with a steaming bowl, feeling the warmth wrap around you like a cozy blanket. It’s not just food; it’s an experience. The recipe I’m sharing here promises a deliciously creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, let’s jump in and bring this delightful dish to life!

Why This Recipe Works

Broccoli cheese soup beautifully marries the earthy flavors of fresh broccoli with the creamy richness of melted cheese. The balance of textures created by tender broccoli, a smooth broth, and hearty vegetables makes for a comforting bowl of goodness. This straightforward recipe is structured to guide even the most novice cooks. By following simple steps, you’ll achieve a successful dish that tastes like a warm, loving hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Soup

This Broccoli Cheese Soup is a true delight, not just for your taste buds, but also for your spirit. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it the ultimate go-to for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals. With a vibrant green color and creamy texture that’s visually appealing, this soup goes the extra mile with a blend of cheeses, offering a rich and luscious depth of flavor. Trust me, this recipe will have everyone eagerly coming back for those comforting seconds!

Ingredients

To make this delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

3 tablespoons butter
1/2 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, grated or minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups low sodium vegetable broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
3 cups broccoli florets, chopped

Gathering these simple ingredients means you’re just moments away from enjoying a richly flavored soup.

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

First, heat the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and carrots. Sauté until they soften and become fragrant. After that, introduce the grated garlic, cooking for another minute to deepen that lovely flavor profile.

Create the Base

Next, sprinkle in the flour along with the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir vigorously, ensuring no flour remains visible. Continue cooking for a minute. This step is key to developing a strong flavor base for your soup.

Add the Broth

Now, gradually pour in the low sodium vegetable broth while stirring. This smooth action helps to build a solid soup base and brings out the dish’s true flavor.

Incorporate the Milk

Once the broth is well mixed in, add the whole milk to the pot. Bring your soup to a gentle simmer, allowing it to reach that perfect creamy consistency that’s desired in a great Broccoli Cheese Soup.

Stir in the Broccoli and Cheese

Lower the heat to medium and add in the chopped broccoli along with both cheeses: cheddar and Gruyère. Stir continuously to ensure everything melds together beautifully. Keep an eye on the broccoli; in about 3-5 minutes, it should yield that delightful tender texture while the cheeses melt like a dream.

Final Seasoning and Serve

Do a quick taste test! Adjust the seasoning if necessary, then ladle your hot soup into bowls. Enjoy each spoonful of this comforting goodness!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Broccoli Cheese Soup with a warm, crusty bread for the perfect dipping experience. Alternatively, serve it alongside a fresh garden salad to create a balanced meal. These pairings enhance the flavors and add even more enjoyment to your meal.

Tips for Success

Fresh broccoli yields the best flavor and texture, but frozen is easier and still works well for quick meals.
While melting the cheese, stir continuously to prevent clumping and achieve that smooth texture.
If you prefer a thicker soup, adjust the amount of flour or liquid used, tailoring it to your liking.

Variations

Feel free to change things up!

Add Protein: Consider tossing in some cooked chicken or crispy bacon for a heartier soup.
Spice It Up: For those who like a kick, add red pepper flakes to spice things up a notch.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or even pepper jack for a unique twist.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store your Broccoli Cheese Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to maintain that creamy consistency.

Pairing Ideas

The beauty of Broccoli Cheese Soup is how well it pairs with various dishes. Try it with a classic grilled cheese sandwich or a hearty panini. For a lighter touch, a crisp, refreshing white wine can elevate your meal experience.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Swap in plant-based butter, vegetable broth, and non-dairy milk, plus your favorite vegan cheese for a satisfying vegan alternative.

2. How do I thicken the soup?
To reach your desired thickness, add more flour or reduce the amount of liquid in your soup.

3. Can I freeze Broccoli Cheese Soup?
Yes! Just keep in mind that cream-based soups may change texture upon thawing, so reheat gently for the best results.

4. What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar and Gruyère create an amazing flavor combo. However, feel free to get creative and swap with cheeses you love.

5. How can I make this soup spicier?
To ramp up the heat, just add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Broccoli Cheese Soup transcends being just a recipe; it’s an experience that easily bursts with flavor and warmth. From chilly evenings to family gatherings, this dish brings everyone together, inviting them to share in the comforting, cheesy goodness. With a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a soul-nourishing dish that warms the heart. Enjoy the moments you’ll create around this wonderful Broccoli Cheese Soup!